“That was an easy catch, I should have taken that,” Rohit admitted at the post-match presentation. “I’ve set high standards for myself in the slips, and missing that was disappointing. But these things happen. The way our bowlers performed set up the game for us.”

Axar had Tanzid Hasan and Mushfiqur Rahim dismissed on consecutive deliveries and nearly completed a hat-trick when Jaker Ali edged his first ball—only for Rohit to drop the chance. Axar finished with 2 for 43, while Jaker capitalized on the lifeline to score 68, forming a crucial century partnership with Towhid Hridoy.

To make amends, Rohit joked that he would take Axar out for dinner. Axar, however, took the setback in stride, saying, “I was ready to celebrate, but then I saw it didn’t happen. These things are part of the game.”

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Shami’s Early Strikes Put India on Top

Bangladesh, having opted to bat first, struggled from the outset as Shami’s disciplined bowling tore through their lineup. He finished with figures of 5 for 53, reaching a historic milestone as the fastest bowler to claim 200 ODI wickets in terms of balls bowled. His fiery opening spell reduced Bangladesh to 35 for 5 before a counterattack from Towhid Hridoy (100) and Jaker Ali (68) helped them reach a respectable 228.

Axar Patel also played a key role, taking two wickets in quick succession and nearly securing a hat-trick—denied only by Rohit Sharma’s dropped catch. Bangladesh, aided by some reprieves, managed to post a fighting total but fell short of the ideal target on a sluggish pitch.

Gill Anchors India’s Chase

India started aggressively, with Rohit Sharma (41 off 36) and Gill stitching a 69-run opening stand. However, Bangladesh’s spinners soon applied pressure, leading to a middle-order slowdown. Virat Kohli (19), Shreyas Iyer (15), and Axar Patel (9) fell cheaply as India’s scoring rate dipped.

Gill, however, adjusted to the conditions, curbing his aggressive instincts to build a steady innings. His 101* off 129 balls was India’s slowest ODI century in six years, but it ensured a comfortable chase. KL Rahul (41*) provided solid support, sealing the win with a six with 21 balls to spare.

Key Takeaways

• Shami’s brilliance: His sixth ODI five-for reaffirmed his class, especially after returning from injuries.
• Gill’s resilience: He adapted to the tricky pitch and stayed till the end to guide India home.
• Missed opportunities: Bangladesh’s dropped chances and slow start cost them a stronger total.

India, now second in Group A with two points, will look to build momentum in their next match, while Bangladesh will need to regroup to stay in contention.

Also Read : ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Top Contenders and Title Favorites

“If it’s going to be overcast, we have the bowling arsenal to combat that. If there are overhead conditions helping the bowlers, we have the bowlers to exploit that. And if we bat in those overhead conditions, the batters know exactly what to do,” Sharma stated.

India’s squad boasts depth, particularly with all-rounders like Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, and Washington Sundar, who provide balance to the playing XI. With pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah ruled out due to injury, these players will be crucial in filling the void.

Rohit also highlighted the importance of wrist-spinner Varun Chakravarthy, who has an impressive List A record with 60 wickets in 24 matches at an average of 14.80. “He has got something different, which is why he is here with us. He has been impressive in the last eight to nine months,” Sharma said, acknowledging the mystery spinner’s potential impact.

Another key player in India’s campaign will be Mohammad Shami, who recently returned to international cricket following an ankle injury. Though he bowled only 15.5 overs in two ODIs against England, picking up a wicket in each, Sharma emphasized that the focus was on his rhythm rather than immediate wicket-taking returns. “With a bowler like Shami, it’s just about getting back into rhythm. Hopefully, he can find that early in the tournament,” he added.

India, having played nine T20Is in Dubai since 2021 but no ODIs since 2018, will look to adjust quickly as they take on Bangladesh in their opening match.

Also Read : Rachin Ravindra Set to Return as New Zealand Stays Cautious Ahead of Pakistan Clash

Match Highlights:

• Will Young led New Zealand’s batting with a brilliant century.
• Tom Latham played a match-winning innings of 118* off 104 balls.
• Pakistan’s bowlers, led by Shaheen Afridi, initially kept things tight but struggled in the death overs.
• New Zealand’s bowlers dominated, dismantling Pakistan’s batting lineup with early breakthroughs.
• Mitchell Santner’s side executed their bowling plans perfectly, sealing a convincing win.

Pakistan’s captain Mohammad Rizwan admitted that their execution in the final overs was poor, allowing New Zealand to post a higher-than-expected total. Losing opener Fakhar Zaman to injury further hampered their chase.

With this win, New Zealand takes an early lead in Group A of the tournament, while Pakistan looks to bounce back in their upcoming matches.

Next up, India faces Bangladesh in Dubai on Thursday as the tournament heats up!

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Also Read : RCB Dominate Capitals to Secure Second Consecutive Win

Despite uncertainty surrounding his availability, Ravindra was the first to take the nets, confidently marking his guard. With his helmet on, he concealed the stitched wound from the freak incident when a misjudged slog from Khushdil Shah struck him on the forehead.

New Zealand, known for their methodical approach, have ensured his recovery isn’t rushed. Glenn Phillips and Michael Bracewell bowled spin to him in practice, where Ravindra displayed his signature flair—lofted cover drives and powerful on-drives that would have cleared the boundary in a match setting.

Injury Scare and Swift Recovery

When Ravindra initially suffered the blow, fears of a severe injury loomed. He collapsed, dazed and bleeding, as medical staff rushed in. However, updates from the New Zealand camp remained positive—no concussion, no loss of consciousness, and no damage to his facial features.

Captain Kane Williamson praised Ravindra’s resilience, calling him a “chirpy character” who quickly returned to his usual self. Tom Latham, leading in Williamson’s absence, confirmed that while his recovery was progressing well, final clearance depended on medical protocols.

New Zealand’s Adaptability

Over the past fortnight in Pakistan, New Zealand have handled setbacks seamlessly. Devon Conway stepped in for Ravindra in the tri-series, scoring 97 and 48 in crucial matches. Despite losing pacers Lockie Ferguson and Ben Sears, replacements Nathan Smith and Jacob Duffy maintained the team’s momentum.

The Blackcaps showcased their versatility in different match situations—stabilizing the top order before accelerating, executing clinical chases, and suffocating Pakistan with a combined pace-spin attack in the tri-series final.

Latham emphasized adaptability:

“It’s about adjusting to conditions and surfaces. We’ve played three games here and a warm-up match, so the team is familiar with the environment. It’s about executing our brand of cricket.”

Final Preparations

In the final training session, Ravindra observed pace bowlers from the sidelines before joining a discussion with Williamson and bowling coach Shane Jurgensen. Later, he emerged without his helmet, engaging in throwdowns rather than bowling his usual left-arm spin—a sign that caution remains.

New Zealand are in no rush to finalize his return. If he plays, it will be a calculated decision. If he doesn’t, they’ve already proven they can adapt and thrive.

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The tournament marks the return of a major ICC event to Pakistan after 29 years, adding an extra layer of excitement for the home side. Pakistan, the defending champions from 2017, will aim to lift the trophy once again in front of their home crowd.

Meanwhile, India, the reigning T20 world champions, will be eager to avenge their 180-run loss to Pakistan in the 2017 final and secure their third Champions Trophy title.

Here’s a look at the top three teams likely to contend for the trophy:

India – The Powerhouse on a Mission

• Best Result: Champions (2002, 2013)
• ODI Ranking: 1
• Key Players: Shubman Gill, Kuldeep Yadav, Hardik Pandya

After falling short in the 2023 ODI World Cup final against Australia, India bounced back to win the T20 World Cup, reaffirming their dominance in white-ball cricket.

Rohit Sharma’s squad enters the tournament in red-hot form, having recently crushed England 3-0 in an ODI series. With Shubman Gill’s exceptional batting, Kuldeep Yadav’s crafty spin, and Hardik Pandya’s all-round abilities, India is the team to beat.

Pakistan – Home Advantage and a Star-Studded Lineup

• Best Result: Champions (2017)
• ODI Ranking: 3
• Key Players: Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, Fakhar Zaman

Pakistan’s cricket journey is often unpredictable, filled with stunning victories and unexpected setbacks. However, with home support and a talented squad, they are serious contenders.

Led by Mohammad Rizwan, Pakistan boasts Babar Azam’s class, Shaheen Afridi’s pace, and Fakhar Zaman’s big-match temperament—key weapons for their title defense. Recent series wins over Australia (2-1) and South Africa (3-0) show they are ready to challenge the best.

New Zealand – The Underrated Threat

• Best Result: Champions (2000)
• ODI Ranking: 4
• Key Players: Kane Williamson, Matt Henry, Mitchell Santner

New Zealand consistently reaches the knockout stages of ICC events but struggles to convert opportunities into trophies. With experienced names like Kane Williamson and Mitchell Santner, along with a recent tri-nation series win in Pakistan, they could finally break the drought.

Their superior fielding, disciplined bowling, and ability to handle pressure make them dangerous opponents in crucial matches.

Who Will Lift the Trophy?

With a highly competitive lineup, the Champions Trophy 2025 promises thrilling encounters. India enters as the top favorite, Pakistan seeks home glory, and New Zealand remains a dark horse. Cricket fans worldwide eagerly await what could be one of the most memorable ICC events in recent history.

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In an exclusive interview with Cricbuzz, Mehidy opens up about expectations, captaincy, and his ideal batting spot.

Excerpts from the Interview:

Are you feeling the pressure of the Champions Trophy?

Since we are playing the Champions Trophy after eight years, it will be challenging for all of us. I was just starting my international cricket when I played in that campaign (in 2017). There were a number of senior players in our team at that time. There will be a few of them this time, but we will have to play that role (which was filled by the seniors), and so we have to perform. There is so much responsibility, but it is not pressure on us. Since I have played international cricket for seven to eight years now, I know how a situation unfolds. I just have to focus now. We don’t have much time. The BPL just concluded. We didn’t get the chance (to train in this format), and there is also a matter of taking rest. But hopefully, the experience will come in handy.

Do you feel the pressure of replacing Shakib?

I played when Shakib bhai was here. The responsibility will be more on me, and the expectations will be higher in both batting and bowling. The team wants that from me. Honestly, I try to support both aspects as the team needs. Maybe sometimes, for some reasons, the outcome isn’t the same, but sometimes it works too. It’s important that every player takes responsibility. My role is very important. I will try to give my 100%. At the same time, maybe the pressure wasn’t there on me like this when Shakib bhai was here. Maybe that’s why I did well. Now, I may get booed more since the expectations are higher on me, and I can’t fulfil that. And I will definitely feel good if I can perform. I will try to do well for the country. Expectations aren’t built in a day. Maybe I built that to people by performing. There is no way to go back. I hope I can give my 100%.

Can you tell us your favorite batting position?

Look, I don’t think there has been a single player like me who has been shuffled this much in the Bangladesh team. The amount of experiments done on me… I don’t think there are a lot of players who have faced that. Don’t you think I should settle in a specific position? Then I can perform well, and the team will be benefited. In the West Indies tour, you’ll see, we probably didn’t win the series, but we put up a fighting score on the board. We scored 300+, 290. It was beneficial for me and the team also. That’s a different issue that we couldn’t win.

Do you feel you are unlucky as far as having a permanent batting position is concerned?

Not about luck, it’s more about a decision by the management. But yeah, I am at fault too because I never said ‘no’ for the sake of the team. I guess it will not be good for me or for the team if further experiments are done.

If you ask me, yes, number four in ODIs suits you?

I did well in the four innings, three 70+ scores out of those four innings in that position. Yeah, I might fail at times. But that doesn’t mean I can’t do well there. I have proved wherever I was asked to play. Now, I think a decision should be taken, and I have told the management that it probably is better to settle me in a specific position.

If you ask me, yes number four will be good for me because I will get time there. I know how to play in that position. Mushfiqur bhai helped me a lot, and he is the one who played at number four for a long time. He is among the top batters in that position for Bangladesh, scoring a lot of runs during the last seven to eight years that he batted there. I have talked with him on how to play there. I think I have adjusted there well.

You did well at seven or eight also in ODIs…

I have played at number eight for seven to eight years. I probably played 1-1.5 years at number five when Shakib bhai didn’t play. I know the pattern there, how to finish a match. I won a few matches at number eight, one against India. I had a partnership with Afif (against Afghanistan) at number eight. The way of play is different there. If you are in danger, in that case, you’ll have support, but if not, then there’s no work to do at number eight. If I can play up the order, it’s not like I want it so I will get it. It’s the decision of the team management. You have to give a chance to a player. If I fail in two-three matches up at the order, it doesn’t mean I can’t do it there. You have to give time to be stable in a position.

Do you think your willingness to accept any role has contributed to your current situation?

I can never say ‘no.’ That’s my problem. I don’t know why it happens. It’s not only in my cricketing life, but it is the same case in my personal life as well. I can’t say ‘no.’ Now it’s time to come to a decision. I have already spoken with my coach, captain, and the President. I let them know my opinion. They will give feedback now, or they will think about it.

Some believe there’s a competition between you and Najmul Hossain for the captaincy. Do you see it that way?

We’ve been together since U-15 days. Not only one U-19 World Cup, he played under me for 7-8 years. Someone has to have the ‘captain’ title to march everything on the field, but it’s all about a team game. And there’s nothing bigger than the country. He’s my friend, but I have to respect his position. Tamim bhai once said something in the dressing room which I liked. He especially told me that everyone wants to do captaincy because it’s a different experience and environment, but at the same time, everyone should respect the captain’s position. Even if there’s disagreement or anything, there shouldn’t be any bad blood. He probably told this from his experience. That was important because Shanto is my friend, and I have a very good understanding with him. This is totally a misconception. When I was his captain, he helped me.

How difficult will it be for spinners in the Champions Trophy?

Very difficult for spinners, and I have to take mental preparations beforehand. Pakistan will be very challenging. But I’ve got experience of playing Tests there in Rawalpindi, which will help. I got some idea of how the wicket behaves there. I have experience playing in Dubai well. Hopefully, these will help.

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Capitals Struggle After Strong Start

Opting to bat first, Delhi Capitals had a shaky start as Shafali Verma fell for a first-ball duck, chipping straight to mid-off. Jemimah Rodrigues (34) and Meg Lanning (26) tried to rebuild, adding a brisk 50-run partnership before Georgia Wareham struck, stumping Rodrigues with a clever delivery. Lanning followed suit five balls later, top-edging a short ball to fine-leg, shifting the momentum in RCB’s favor.

RCB tightened their grip after the time-out, choking the Capitals’ scoring rate as they went 22 balls without a boundary. Despite Annabel Sutherland’s six, she fell soon after, followed by the dismissals of Jess Jonassen and Marizanne Kapp, leaving Delhi reeling at 105/6. Sarah Bryce (23 off 19) fought to push the total past 150, but RCB’s bowlers wrapped up the tail efficiently, bowling Delhi out for 141 in 19.3 overs.

Mandhana Leads RCB’s Blazing Chase

RCB’s chase began in explosive fashion, with Mandhana and Wyatt-Hodge taking full advantage of the powerplay, racing to 57/0 in six overs. Mandhana dispatched Kapp for consecutive boundaries, while Wyatt-Hodge hammered Shikkha Pandey for four fours across two overs. The momentum remained with RCB as Mandhana smashed her fastest WPL fifty off just 27 balls.

Despite Wyatt-Hodge’s dismissal at 100/1, RCB never looked in trouble. Ellyse Perry survived a mix-up between Lanning and Sutherland, while Mandhana continued her assault, slamming Sutherland and Jonassen for boundaries. The skipper fell at fine-leg attempting a scoop, but with only 11 runs needed, Richa Ghosh finished in style with a four and a six, sealing RCB’s second consecutive victory in 16.2 overs.

Brief Scores:

Delhi Capitals – 141 in 19.3 overs (Jemimah Rodrigues 34, Sarah Bryce 23; Renuka Singh Thakur 3-23, Georgia Wareham 3-25)
Royal Challengers Bengaluru – 146/2 in 16.2 overs (Smriti Mandhana 81, Danielle Wyatt-Hodge 42; Shikkha Pandey 1-27)

Result: RCB won by 8 wickets.

Also Read : Pakistan Cricket: A Journey of Resurgence and Redemption

After being put in to bat, Kiran Navgire provided early fireworks, striking three boundaries within the first two overs. However, her dismissal at the end of the second over triggered a series of setbacks. While captain Deepti Sharma anchored the innings with a 27-ball 39, the rest of the batting lineup found it difficult to accelerate. Gujarat Giants’ bowlers kept striking at regular intervals, preventing UPW from setting a challenging total.

Despite the modest target, UP Warriorz made early inroads with Grace Harris and Sophie Ecclestone claiming quick wickets. However, Ashleigh Gardner’s counter-attacking half-century turned the game in Gujarat Giants’ favor. Her efforts, combined with an unbeaten 58-run stand between Deandra Dottin and Harleen Deol, secured a comfortable victory for Gujarat with two overs to spare.

Sthalekar’s Assessment: Missed Runs and Costly Overs

Sthalekar acknowledged that the team fell short of their potential, emphasizing that losing wickets in clusters hurt them significantly. “Losing wickets in clumps at the top and then in the middle really hurt us,” she said. “Deepti played well, and Alana King and Saima Thakor contributed at the end to get us to 140, but we needed more.”

She also pointed out the trend of expensive overs early in the innings, which has been a common theme in the tournament so far. “When a bowler gets hit early on, a couple of overs can go for big runs, and we had too many of those given the below-par total we put on the board,” she added.

Positives for UP Warriorz Despite the Loss

Despite the defeat, Sthalekar remained optimistic. She highlighted key performances, particularly praising Krant Goud’s debut and Alana King’s late contributions. “There are always positives. Krant looked good with the ball, she has that extra pace. Alana King added crucial runs, though she’ll be disappointed with her bowling execution. And Deepti Sharma showed real fight,” she said.

Sthalekar also stressed the importance of moving on quickly in a tournament like the WPL, where matches come in quick succession. “With these tournaments, you’ve got to park this performance and focus on the next game in a couple of days.”

Deepti Sharma’s Leadership and Form

Leading the side for the first time, Deepti Sharma impressed Sthalekar with her all-round performance. She believes the added responsibility of captaincy has only made Deepti more determined.

“Sometimes, when given a leadership role, players start focusing on the team more than themselves. Yet, she has performed exceptionally well with both bat and ball,” Sthalekar noted. “She’s in a good run of form, and sometimes in T20 cricket, a bit of luck goes a long way.”

UP Warriorz will now look to bounce back in their upcoming fixture, learning from their mistakes while building on their strengths. With a strong leader in Deepti Sharma and a talented squad, they remain a formidable side in WPL 2025.

A Nation’s Cricketing Revival

Once a dominant force in world cricket, Pakistan faced a challenging phase marked by international isolation, security concerns, and inconsistent performances. However, the past few years have witnessed a remarkable turnaround, driven by a mix of young talent, strategic leadership, and unwavering fan support.

Return of International Cricket

One of the biggest milestones in Pakistan’s cricketing resurgence has been the return of international matches to home soil. After a decade-long exile, teams like England, Australia, and New Zealand have toured Pakistan, signaling a renewed trust in the country’s security infrastructure. The successful hosting of these series has reinstated Pakistan as a key player in global cricket.

Emerging Talent and Leadership

The emergence of young stars like Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, and Mohammad Rizwan has injected new life into the team. Under Babar’s captaincy, Pakistan has achieved significant milestones, including reaching the final of the T20 World Cup 2022 and defeating top-ranked teams in high-pressure games. The Pakistan Super League (PSL) has also played a crucial role in nurturing domestic talent and providing a platform for young cricketers to showcase their skills.

Challenges and the Road Ahead

Despite the progress, Pakistan still faces challenges, including administrative instability, inconsistent performances, and the need for a stronger domestic structure. However, with a talented squad, passionate fanbase, and a renewed focus on long-term planning, the team is on a promising path.

Pakistan’s cricketing revival is not just about winning matches but about reclaiming its rightful place in the cricketing world. With the Champions Trophy 2025 set to be hosted in Pakistan, the nation has a golden opportunity to further cement its legacy and showcase its cricketing spirit to the world.