Thu Feb 20 21:47:53 UTC 2025: ## India Cruises to Victory Over Bangladesh in Champions Trophy Opener
**Dubai, UAE** – India began their ICC Champions Trophy 2025 campaign with a resounding six-wicket victory over Bangladesh at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Thursday. Shubman Gill’s magnificent century (101*) and a five-wicket haul (5/53) by Mohammed Shami spearheaded India’s dominant performance.
Bangladesh, electing to bat first, were restricted to 228 in 49.4 overs, despite a century (100) from Towhid Hridoy and a gritty 68 from Jaker Ali. Shami’s early strikes and a late burst decimated the Bangladesh batting order, surpassing Zaheer Khan’s record to become India’s highest wicket-taker in 50-over ICC events with 60 wickets. He also achieved the fastest 200 ODI wickets for an Indian bowler.
In reply, India chased down the target with ease in 46.3 overs. Gill anchored the innings with his composed century, while KL Rahul provided valuable support with an unbeaten 41. Rohit Sharma also contributed a quick-fire 41 before reaching the 11,000 ODI run milestone. While Bangladesh picked up a few wickets in the middle overs, the unbeaten partnership between Gill and Rahul ensured a comfortable win for India.
The victory puts India second in Group A, setting up a highly anticipated clash against arch-rivals Pakistan at the same venue this Sunday.
First Piper 