Dubai, February 20, 2025 – The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 continues with an exciting second match between India and Bangladesh at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
After an eight-year hiatus, the Champions Trophy is back, bringing thrilling encounters between the world’s best teams. This much-anticipated fixture will see last tournament’s runners-up India take on a resurgent Bangladesh side that has steadily grown into a formidable force in international cricket.
The Champions Trophy has historically been a platform for intense rivalries, and this match is no different. India, boasting a star-studded batting lineup featuring Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Shubman Gill, will look to assert their dominance. Their ability to chase down big totals and accelerate in the middle overs has been their hallmark. However, Bangladesh will not be an easy opponent, with their pace attack led by Mustafizur Rahman, Taskin Ahmed, and the promising Nahid Rana, who will be eager to make an impact.
The last time these two teams met in an ODI at this venue was during the 2018 Asia Cup Final, where India emerged victorious. India have an impressive record at this ground, winning five out of their six ODIs played here, all in that tournament. Bangladesh, on the other hand, have played three matches in Dubai, winning just one. Despite these statistics, the unpredictability of the Champions Trophy makes this clash an enticing contest.
In team news, India will be without their star pacer Jasprit Bumrah due to injury, while Bangladesh will miss their experienced all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan, who is unavailable due to bowling action concerns. With Dubai’s traditionally pace-friendly conditions, India’s decision to include only three specialist pacers alongside Hardik Pandya is intriguing. Their five-pronged spin attack suggests they are backing their strengths over the conditions. Meanwhile, Bangladesh will rely on their mix of experienced and young pacers to exploit any movement on offer.
Batting has often been Bangladesh’s Achilles’ heel in major tournaments. Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto will be crucial at number three, setting the stage for the likes of Tawhid Hridoy and Mahmudullah to launch an assault later. India, in contrast, come into the Champions Trophy with their top order in fine form, fresh off a strong series against England. Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill, and Shreyas Iyer have all found their rhythm, making them a tough challenge for the Bangladeshi bowlers.
The Champions Trophy always brings unpredictable matchups, and this encounter could see spinners play a bigger role if the pitch is on the drier side. Bangladesh’s ability to tackle India’s experienced bowling attack will be key. Will Bangladesh stun the tournament favorites and kickstart their campaign with a statement victory? Or will India’s firepower prove too much yet again? Only time will tell as the Champions Trophy 2025 continues to deliver high-stakes cricketing drama.