Shubman Gill's Century Leads India to Victory over Bangladesh in ICC Champions Trophy 2025

New Delhi: Shubman Gill has once again proved his prowess as the World No. 1 ODI batter, smashing a brilliant century off just 125 balls to lead India to a commanding six-wicket win over Bangladesh in their 2025 ICC Champions Trophy opener at the Dubai International Stadium.

Following Mohammed Shami’s 5-53 performance, which helped bowl Bangladesh out for 228, Gill took his time on a slow pitch, weathering the pressure of falling wickets to remain unbeaten on 101 off 129 balls, with nine fours and two sixes.

He received solid support from captain Rohit Sharma, who made a quick 41, and KL Rahul, who contributed a composed 41 off 47 balls. India completed the chase with 21 balls to spare.

Although Gill’s century was his slowest in ODIs, it was crucial for India’s confidence ahead of their next clash with Pakistan. Bangladesh, after losing five wickets in the power-play, found solace in Towhid Hridoy’s fighting century and his 154-run partnership with Jaker Ali, who scored 68.

Shami made the first breakthrough, dismissing Soumya Sarkar caught by KL Rahul. India continued to take wickets, including Tanzid Hasan, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, and Najmul Hossain Shanto. Axar Patel’s quick wickets also helped, but Bangladesh’s top-order resistance came from Hridoy and Jaker, who put together a resilient stand. Hridoy reached his first ODI century in 114 balls.

After Shami claimed five wickets, India needed 229 to win. Gill and Rohit started strongly with some solid boundaries, but after Rohit’s dismissal for 41, Bangladesh’s spinners caused trouble. Gill, however, carried on and brought up his fifty in 69 balls, the slowest of his career. Despite the pressure, he remained calm, rotating the strike with Rahul, who also played sensibly.

With some key partnerships, including a stand of 87 between Gill and Rahul, India chased down the target with six wickets remaining. Rahul finished the game with a six to help India begin their Champions Trophy campaign with a win.

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