Shami Shines as India Dismisses Bangladesh for 228 in Champions Trophy Opener

Dubai, United Arab Emirates — In a stunning display of bowling prowess, Mohammed Shami led India to bowl Bangladesh out for 228 during the opening match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 on February 20. Shami made history by becoming the fastest bowler worldwide to achieve 200 ODI wickets, accomplishing the feat in just 5,126 balls, surpassing Mitchell Starc‘s previous record of 5,240 balls.

Shami claimed remarkable bowling figures of 5 for 53 in his 10 overs, marking India’s impressive bowling attack. His fifth wicket was pivotal, as it secured his milestone against Jaker Ali, who contributed a vital 68 runs for Bangladesh. The Indian bowlers dismantled the Bangladeshi lineup early, leaving them in dire straits at 35 for 5 wickets within the first nine overs of their innings.

Despite the top-order collapse, Bangladesh found resilience in Towhid Hridoy, who scored a valiant century, finishing with 100 runs off 118 balls. Hridoy and Jaker Ali built a formidable partnership of 154 runs for the sixth wicket, which eventually lifted Bangladesh to a competitive total after a disastrous start.

“We were in a challenging situation at the beginning, but the partnership with Jaker was crucial. It helped us get back in the game,” Hridoy said after his innings. He became the second Bangladeshi player to achieve a century in a Champions Trophy debut, following in Tamim Iqbal’s footsteps.

Bangladesh skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto won the toss and chose to bat first, but the decision soon backfired as Shami quickly dismissed the opening batsman Soumya Sarkar on his second ball, triggering an early collapse. Axar Patel also contributed significantly to the Indian innings with 2 for 43 before Shami claimed his final wicket of the innings.

The partnership between Hridoy and Ali was a turning point for Bangladesh, demonstrating their potential to recover from tough situations. However, the lower order failed to build on this foundation, as Harshit Rana wrapped up the innings for Bangladesh with his figures of 3 for 31.

“It was a good comeback for us after a very poor start, and it feels great to have made it to a fighting total,” Jaker Ali commented, reflecting on their performance amid pressure.

As India prepares to chase down 229 runs, they will be hoping to continue their momentum in this tournament. The team continues to have high expectations from their lineup, despite missing premier fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah due to injury.

The backdrop of political tensions allowed India to play all its matches in the United Arab Emirates rather than in Pakistan. With the competition heating up and Bangladesh looking to capitalize on any missteps by India, the stage is set for a thrilling encounter.