India, the hosts and 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, kick started their campaign with a comprehensive victory over Bangladesh at Dubai International Stadium. The match was won by India who anchored their chase with Shubman Gill’s ton and had Mohammed Shami finish with five wickets.
Shami’s Masterclass with the Ball
Taking willow with both hands, Shami struck hard as Bangladesh had fallen behind to narrowly (35/5 in the first 9 overs) opting to bat first. Veteran leg-spinner secured his 200th ODI wicket and ended up with 5/53, becoming the highest wicket taker in an ICC ODI tournament. The partnership of Towhid Hridoy (100) and Jaker Ali (68) fell just short, and Bangladesh managed only to add another 228 runs including 2 wickets to their pair.
Gill with composure in the chase
The first innings of their chase, India were set by Rohit Sharma (41) and Shubman Gill (44). Gill steadied the ship with an excellent 101 knock to his name, his eighth ODI hundred followed by KL Rahul (41) that solidified for 87 runs unbroken. India bowled steadily even without any middens bowling wickets. 
What’s Next?
India will play Pakistan in a must for to win Tuesday February 23 at Dubai and Bangladesh are playing on Rawalpindi against New Zealand in same day.
India is now second in Group A behind New Zealand on net run rate with this win.
This achievement serves India well as they look to end their back-to-back ICC trophies with another win at the 2024 T20 World Cup.
