India begins its ICC Champions Trophy 2025 campaign against Bangladesh in Dubai. This tournament offers India a strong opportunity to claim their first major ODI title in over a decade. Since India opted not to travel to Pakistan, all their group-stage matches will be held in Dubai. The team enters the competition in solid form after a recent home ODI series victory against England.
Bangladesh, in contrast, has struggled in the ODI format. They recently lost consecutive series first against the West Indies and then against Afghanistan in the UAE. Additionally, they have yet to play an ODI in 2025. Across those matches, Bangladesh secured only one win and suffered five defeats, exposing their inconsistency. The playing conditions in Dubai historically favor India, as seen in their dominant 2018 Asia Cup campaign at this venue.
IND vs BAN: Pitch Report
The Dubai International Stadium has traditionally favored fast bowlers, but spinners may also play a key role. Given the pitch conditions, spin could prove crucial, benefiting India’s squad, which includes five specialized spinners. Under Rohit Sharma’s leadership, India is well-equipped to capitalize on spin-friendly conditions.
IND vs BAN: Weather Forecast
Dubai is expected to have partly sunny weather on Thursday, February 20, with a possibility of afternoon showers. The chance of rain stands at 55%, while humidity levels will hover around 39%. Temperatures are expected to range from 27°C during the day to 20°C at night.
IND vs BAN: Full Squads
India
- Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, Mohd. Shami, Arshdeep Singh, Ravindra Jadeja, Varun Chakaravarthy.
Bangladesh
- Nazmul Hossain Shanto (c), Soumya Sarkar, Tanzid Hasan, Tawhid Hridoy, Mushfiqur Rahim, MD Mahmud Ullah, Jaker Ali Anik, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Rishad Hossain, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, Parvez Hossain Emon, Nasum Ahmed, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Nahid Rana.
[IMAGE: Dubai International Stadium pitch conditions]
Key Takeaways
- India faces Bangladesh in their Champions Trophy 2025 opener in Dubai.
- The pitch is expected to support fast bowlers while assisting spinners later in the match.
- A 55% chance of rain could influence match conditions.
- India has a strong record at this venue, adding to their advantage.