India got off to a fantastic start in their Group A match against Bangladesh in the 2025 Champions Trophy, thanks to a stellar performance by Mohammed Shami. The experienced pacer made an immediate impact by removing Bangladesh opener Soumya Sarkar for a duck in the very first over.
The match, held at the Dubai International Stadium on February 20, saw Shami deliver a well-angled seam-up ball on a good length. Sarkar, attempting a drive away from his body, failed to make a clean connection. The ball deflected off his inside edge and landed safely in wicketkeeper KL Rahul’s gloves, marking an early breakthrough for India. This dismissal left Bangladesh struggling at 1/1 after just one over.
First over, first strike! #MohammadShami takes no time to get India going with a quick breakthrough!
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) February 20, 2025
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Shami Nears 200-ODI Wicket Milestone
The wicket of Sarkar in the opening over also marked a significant moment in Shami’s career. Playing his 104th One Day International (ODI), the 34-year-old pacer took his 198th ODI wicket, bringing him just two dismissals away from reaching the coveted 200-wicket milestone.
If he achieves this feat, he will become only the eighth Indian bowler to do so in ODIs. Shami’s ability to strike early and maintain pressure has been instrumental in India’s bowling attack, making him a key player in their campaign for the Champions Trophy.
Early Setbacks for Bangladesh
Bangladesh, after winning the toss and electing to bat first, faced immediate setbacks. Alongside Shami’s early breakthrough, debutant Harshit Rana made an impression in his first ICC tournament appearance. Rana dismissed Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto for a duck in his very first over, further pushing Bangladesh onto the back foot.
By the end of four overs, Bangladesh found themselves at 13/2, with Tanzid Hasan (12) and Mehidy Hasan Miraz (0) trying to stabilize the innings. This match marks only the second time India and Bangladesh have faced each other in a Champions Trophy tournament, their previous encounter being the 2017 semi-final, where India secured a dominant nine-wicket victory.
Both teams entered the contest with strong line-ups. India’s playing XI featured key players like Rohit Sharma (captain), Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill, and KL Rahul, while Bangladesh’s squad included seasoned names such as Mushfiqur Rahim, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, and Mustafizur Rahman. With an intense battle underway, all eyes are on how the rest of the match unfolds.
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