Thu Feb 20 17:31:26 UTC 2025: ## Gill’s Century Propels India to Victory Over Bangladesh in Champions Trophy Opener

**Dubai, UAE** – Shubman Gill’s masterful unbeaten century (101) steered India to a six-wicket victory over Bangladesh in their Champions Trophy opener at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Thursday. Chasing a challenging 229, India reached the target with 21 balls to spare, thanks largely to Gill’s second consecutive ODI ton.

Bangladesh, electing to bat first, got off to a disastrous start, losing five wickets for just 35 runs. Mohammed Shami spearheaded India’s bowling attack, claiming impressive figures of 5-53, his sixth five-wicket haul in ODIs. Towhid Hridoy (100) and Jaker Ali (68) staged a spirited fightback with a crucial 154-run partnership for the sixth wicket, helping Bangladesh reach 228 all out. However, several dropped catches by India hampered their efforts to restrict Bangladesh further.

India’s chase began strongly with Rohit Sharma (41) and Gill combining effectively. Sharma also reached the milestone of 11,000 ODI runs during the innings. Despite the loss of wickets, including Virat Kohli (22), Gill remained composed. He and KL Rahul (41*) formed an unbeaten 87-run stand to secure the win. Rahul himself was dropped early in his innings, highlighting missed opportunities for Bangladesh.

Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto acknowledged his team’s poor start and criticized their fielding, citing several dropped catches as key factors in their defeat. India captain Rohit Sharma admitted to being under pressure but praised his team’s resilience.

India’s next match is a highly anticipated clash against Pakistan on Sunday, while Bangladesh face New Zealand on Monday. The tournament is being held in the UAE after India refused to tour Pakistan due to political tensions.

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