India vs Bangladesh: A Champions Trophy Clash of Titans

The Stakes are High in Dubai

The Dubai International Stadium is set to witness a thrilling encounter as India, the tournament favorites, lock horns with Bangladesh in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 on Thursday, February 20th at 1pm (09:00 GMT). Follow the action live with Al Jazeera's text and photo commentary stream.

Coming off a disappointing loss to Australia in the 2023 World Cup final, India will be eager to prove their ODI prowess. While their 2024 T20 World Cup victory provided some solace, the Champions Trophy presents an opportunity to truly banish those lingering memories of defeat.

Why India are Favourites

India's dominance in ODI cricket, reflected in their top ICC ranking, makes them the clear favorites. The UAE's spin-friendly pitches further bolster their chances, playing perfectly into the hands of their potent spin attack.

This tournament carries extra weight for veterans Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, potentially their final outing in Indian colors. A Champions Trophy victory would be a fitting farewell for these two cricketing legends.

Can Bangladesh Spring a Surprise?

Bangladesh's cricketing journey has been one of steady progress. From missing the inaugural Champions Trophy in 1998 to reaching the semi-finals in 2017, they've shown their mettle. While a recent dip in form and an opening match against a formidable Indian side pose significant challenges, Bangladesh possesses the talent to cause an upset.

Their 2017 semi-final appearance, also against India, serves as a reminder of their potential to compete with the best.

Recent Form and Head-to-Head

India enter the tournament on a high, fresh off a 3-0 series sweep against England. This dominant display reaffirmed their ODI strength and quelled any doubts about their form.

Bangladesh, on the other hand, face an uphill battle. Their last ODI series ended in a 3-0 whitewash against West Indies. They haven't tasted ODI victory since November 2024.

History favors India in the head-to-head record, having won 32 of their 41 ODI encounters. However, in the unpredictable world of cricket, anything is possible.

Team News and Squads

Bangladesh will sorely miss the services of all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan due to injury. However, the emergence of fast bowler Nahid Rana adds firepower to their seam attack, complementing their traditionally strong spin department.

India is expected to unleash a spin-heavy attack featuring Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, and Axar Patel, exploiting the conditions in Dubai. The pace department will see a contest between Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana to partner Mohammed Shami in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah.

The Stage is Set

With two contrasting narratives and a history of exciting clashes, the India-Bangladesh encounter promises to be a captivating contest. Will India assert their dominance or will Bangladesh roar to victory? Only time will tell.