India to take on Bangladesh in second Champions Trophy encounter today
Cricket
Rohit Sharma emphasised the importance of versatility in team selection
DUBAI (Dunya News) – India would be playing against Bangladesh in the second Group-A match of Champions Trophy 2025 in Dubai International Stadium.
As India prepares to play all its Champions Trophy matches in Dubai, questions have arisen about the team’s decision to go with a spin-heavy lineup. Addressing concerns over the selection of five spinners, captain Rohit Sharma provided clarity on the thought process behind the move.
Rohit Sharma emphasised the importance of versatility in team selection, highlighting the all-round capabilities of Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, and Washington Sundar.
"These three guys bring depth to our squad. They contribute with both bat and ball, which is why we wanted to include players who offer two skills rather than just one," Rohit stated, underlining their crucial role in balancing the team.
Bangladesh skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto has issued a strong statement ahead of his team’s highly anticipated clash against India in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 opener on February 20.
Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, Shanto exuded confidence in Bangladesh’s ability to challenge any opponent, particularly highlighting their improved pace attack.
“I think we have always struggled with our seam attack, but in the last couple of years, we have developed some quality fast bowlers,” Shanto remarked.
He specifically praised Nahid Rana and Taskin Ahmed for their recent performances, stating, “Now we have Nahid Rana and Taskin, and the way they are bowling helps a lot. As a captain, I love to see them bowling fast.”
With their growing firepower in the fast-bowling department, Bangladesh is gearing up to make a strong statement in the tournament opener against India.
Yesterday, New Zealand rode on brilliant hundreds from Tom Latham and Will Young to beat Pakistan by 60 runs in the Champions Trophy opener on Wednesday, spoiling the country's historic return to hosting global events after three decades.
The defeat leaves Pakistan in a difficult position in Group A as they face arch-rivals India in Dubai on Sunday and Bangladesh in Rawalpindi on February 27.
Australia, England, Afghanistan and South Africa form Group B. The top two teams from each group will qualify for the semi-finals.
