In the opening match of the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy at the Dubai International Stadium, Shubman Gill, the World No. 1 ODI batter, scored a resolute century off 125 deliveries, which helped India secure a six-wicket victory over Bangladesh.
Gill maintained his unbeaten status on 101 off 129 balls, with nine fours and two sixes, despite the strain of falling wickets, following Mohammed Shami’s 5-53 performance, which resulted in Bangladesh being bowled out for 228. The pitch was slow.
Rohit Sharma, the captain, scored a rapid 41 runs, while KL Rahul contributed a composed 41 runs off 47 deliveries. India successfully accomplished the chase with 21 balls remaining.
Despite the fact that Gill’s century was his slowest in ODIs, it was essential for India’s confidence in anticipation of their upcoming match against Pakistan. Despite losing five wickets in the power-play, Bangladesh was able to find solace in Towhid Hridoy’s valiant century and his 154-run partnership with Jaker Ali, who had scored 68.
Shami made the initial breakthrough by dismissing Soumya Sarkar, who was caught by KL Rahul. India’s wicket-taking persisted, with Tanzid Hasan, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, and Najmul Hossain Shanto among those who contributed. Axar Patel’s rapid wickets were also beneficial; however, Hridoy and Jaker’s resilient partnership was the source of Bangladesh’s top-order resistance. In 114 deliveries, Hridoy achieved his inaugural ODI century.
India required 229 to secure the victory after Shami claimed five wickets. Bangladesh’s spinners caused trouble after Rohit’s dismissal for 41, but Gill and Rohit began the match firmly with some solid boundaries. Nevertheless, Gill persevered and achieved his fifty in 69 balls, the poorest pace of his career. He maintained composure, alternating the strike with Rahul, who also exhibited adroit play, despite the duress.
India successfully achieved the target with six wickets remaining, thanks to several critical partnerships, including an 87-run partnership between Rahul and Gill. Rahul concluded the game with a six, which facilitated India’s successful commencement of their Champions Trophy campaign.
