CT 2025: Gill’s century leads India to six-wicket win over Bangladesh

India secured a six-wicket victory over Bangladesh in their ICC Champions Trophy opener at the Dubai International Stadium, with Shubman Gill’s brilliant century leading the chase of a 229-run target.

India started strong with skipper Rohit Sharma and Gill forming a 69-run opening stand. Sharma contributed 41 off 36 balls before falling on the last delivery of the powerplay. Gill then partnered with Virat Kohli for a 43-run second-wicket stand before India suffered quick setbacks, slipping to 144/4 in 30.1 overs.

Wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul then joined Gill, and the duo stabilized the innings with an unbeaten 87-run stand, guiding India to victory. Gill remained unbeaten, anchoring the chase, while Rahul added 41 runs to the tally.

For Bangladesh, Rishad Hossain was the pick of the bowlers with two wickets, while Taskin Ahmed and Mustafizur Rahman took one each.

Earlier, Bangladesh, opting to bat first, struggled early as the Indian bowlers reduced them to 35/5 within nine overs. Jaker Ali and Towhid Hridoy led the recovery with a 151-run partnership before Mohammed Shami dismissed Jaker (68) in the 43rd over.

Hridoy battled cramps to complete a valiant century (100 off 118), but Bangladesh could only manage 228.

Shami starred with the ball, claiming 5/53, while Harshit Rana and Axar Patel contributed three and two wickets, respectively.

India’s next match in the tournament will be crucial as they look to maintain their winning momentum.