The glorious triumvirate in India’s victorious beginning to their Champions Trophy 2025 campaign in Dubai on Thursday over Bangladesh included Mohammed Shami’s five-for and an unbeaten ton from Shubman Gill. While a couple of missed catches and a stumping put Bangladesh back into the match and challenged the Indians, the Indian fielders were bright in many efforts.
Virat Kohli’s overhead catch at covers, Gill’s sharp grab at first slip, wicketkeeper KL Rahul’s takedown catches and Mohammed Shami’s running catch near the fine leg were among the great efforts.
As per the Indian cricket team’s custom, the best fielder was given the reward for their efforts post-match. Kohli, Rahul, and Gill were vying for the prize.
“Well done, guys. Fielding in Dubai may not be easily possible. The dome lights momentarily caused some snafus in catches. It is a learning experience.” All I would see from here is the next match where we come back stronger,” Dilip told the players in India.
He continued, “Someone who has really shown that he does what he does all the time going into positions, grabbing every opportunity when it comes his way – none other than Virat Kohli,” he said while praising Kohli.
“He’s behind the stumps, he’s always consistent, but it is not easy because of the new ball, diving on the leg-side; he’s done really well with those catches, KL Rahul,” added Dilip.
Dilip then proceeded ‘livewire’ Ravindra Jadeja to present the medal.
Rahul was awarded the fielder of the match medal with the announcement being done on the giant screen at the Dubai International Stadium.
India had reduced Bangladesh to 35/5 before Towhid Hridoy (100) and Jaker Ali (68) revived the innings as they finished with 228-all out in 49.4 overs. Shami took a five-wicket haul.
India’s reply was highlighted by a scintillating knock from Shubman Gill with an unbeaten century and a brisk 36-ball 41 from the captain Rohit Sharma. Rahul stroked a solid 41* as India achieved their target in 46.3 overs.
