India Faces Bangladesh in Champions Trophy Opener

India`s Champions Trophy 2025 opener against Bangladesh features key players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.

India is gearing up to kick off their ICC Champions Trophy 2025 campaign against Bangladesh on February 20 at the Dubai International Stadium. This match is pivotal for India, as they aim to secure victories in all group stage encounters to advance to the semi-finals. Under the leadership of captain Rohit Sharma, the squad boasts star players like Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill, and Hardik Pandya, who will be crucial in their quest for success.

The pitch at Dubai International Stadium is anticipated to be slow, potentially favoring pacers early on and spinners during the middle overs. This scenario will test India`s strategy, particularly with their selection of five spinners and four fast-bowling options. Virat Kohli, who has faced a form slump, is eager to turn his fortunes around, recalling India`s memorable win against Bangladesh in the 2011 World Cup. He stressed the importance of a strong start, drawing parallels to the pressure faced in T20 World Cup formats.

Rohit Sharma defended the spin-heavy composition of the squad, clarifying that they have only two dedicated spinners and three all-rounders, which adds depth to the team. He expressed enthusiasm for the tournament, emphasizing that the team will approach it with the same focus as any other competition. The match will be officiated by umpires Adrian Holdstock and Paul Reiffel, with Richard Illingworth as the TV umpire and Michael Gough as the fourth umpire. Match referee David Boon will oversee the proceedings. Fans can catch the action live starting at 2:30 PM IST on the Star Sports Network and via livestream on JioHotstar.

For more insights, check out the match details and Rohit Sharma`s comments on the squad`s composition here.

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