ICC CT 2025: India look for strong start in campaign opener against Bangladesh

Fresh from recording a 3-0 whitewash over England in the recently-concluded ODI series at home, India will look to carry forward the momentum in their pursuit of a third ICC Champions Trophy title when they open their campaign against a tricky Bangladesh in Dubai on Thursday.

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Despite being pre-tournament favourites, India faces a series of challenges. The absence of bowling spearhead Jasprit Bumrah, the questionable batting form of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, and thus the onus will be on the likes of young turks Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana to make their mark in the highstakes multi-nation tournament.

For Kohli, Rohit, and even head coach Gautam Gambhir - despite being just six months into his tenure, there is little room for error. The setbacks against New Zealand and Australia continue to cast long shadows over Indian cricket.

However, recent performances offer glimpses of promise.