Dubai: India Win Over Bangladesh in their Champions Trophy opener with a convincing six-wicket victory in a Group A match at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Despite a shaky start in their run chase, India successfully reached the target with 21 balls to spare.
Bangladesh’s Early Collapse and Hridoy’s Heroics
After winning the toss and electing to bat, Bangladesh had a disastrous start, slipping to 35-5 within nine overs. Indian pacer Mohammed Shami, leading the attack in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah, was instrumental in dismantling Bangladesh’s top order. He claimed an impressive 5-53, striking early to remove Soumya Sarkar for a duck and dismissing Mehidy Hasan Miraz soon after.
Left-arm spinner Axar Patel also played a crucial role, picking up two wickets in consecutive deliveries to send Tanzid Hasan and Mushfiqur Rahim back to the pavilion. However, Bangladesh found a savior in Towhid Hridoy, who played a remarkable knock of 100 runs while battling cramps.
Hridoy, alongside Jaker Ali (68), helped Bangladesh recover with a crucial 154-run partnership. Their stand lifted Bangladesh to a respectable total of 228 before they were bowled out in 49.4 overs. Sloppy Indian fielding contributed to Bangladesh’s comeback, with dropped catches allowing both Hridoy and Jaker to capitalize on their opportunities.
India’s Chase Led by Shubman Gill’s Century
Chasing a modest target, India faced some early jitters but were anchored by opener Shubman Gill’s unbeaten 101. Despite some hiccups along the way, Gill remained composed and guided India to victory. His 118-ball innings featured six fours and two sixes, ensuring India secured a comfortable win.
India’s captain Rohit Sharma and star batter Virat Kohli provided valuable contributions before falling to Bangladesh’s bowling attack. However, India’s depth in batting ensured there were no major scares. The team eventually reached the target in 46.3 overs.
Key Highlights of the Match:
– Mohammed Shami’s impressive five-wicket haul (5-53)
– Towhid Hridoy’s century (100) and Jaker Ali’s crucial 68
– Shubman Gill’s match-winning 101* for India
– Bangladesh’s early collapse at 35-5
– India’s steady chase despite some setbacks
Tournament Implications
India, considered one of the tournament favorites, now sits comfortably in Group A, which also includes Pakistan and New Zealand. Bangladesh, despite the loss, showed resilience and will aim for a stronger performance in their next match.
India made two changes from their last ODI series against England, bringing in Shami and Ravindra Jadeja for Arshdeep Singh and Varun Chakravarthy. Meanwhile, Bangladesh’s bowling attack was led by young pacer Nahid Rana alongside experienced seamers Mustafizur Rahman and Taskin Ahmed.
Looking Ahead
With a strong start to their campaign, India will now focus on their upcoming matches, while Bangladesh must regroup to stay competitive in the tournament. As the Champions Trophy unfolds, fans can expect more thrilling encounters in this highly anticipated event.
