India's Bowlers Wreak Havoc as Bangladesh Stumbles to 39/5 in Powerplay – Axar, Shami, and Rana Star


Champions Trophy 2025 | 2nd Match Report | Dubai International Cricket Stadium

Bangladesh endured a torrid start in their Champions Trophy 2025 clash against India, finishing the first powerplay at a precarious 39/5 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. A lethal bowling display from Mohammed Shami, Axar Patel, and debutant Harshit Rana dismantled Bangladesh’s top order, leaving them struggling to post a competitive total.

Bangladesh’s Powerplay Struggles

After electing to bat first, Bangladesh lost wickets in rapid succession as India’s bowlers exploited the conditions brilliantly.

  • Soumya Sarkar (0 off 5) was the first to depart, caught by KL Rahul off Shami.
  • Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto (0 off 2) followed soon after, caught by Virat Kohli off debutant Harshit Rana.
  • Mehidy Hasan Miraz (5 off 10) attempted to stabilize the innings but edged one to Shubman Gill off Shami.
  • Tanzid Hasan (25 off 25) was the only batter to show resistance before he too fell, caught by KL Rahul off Axar Patel.
  • Mushfiqur Rahim (0 off 1) added to Bangladesh’s woes, getting dismissed for a golden duck off Axar Patel’s bowling.

By the end of 10 overs, Bangladesh had managed just 39/5, their lowest powerplay total against India in an ICC tournament.

Axar’s Missed Hat-Trick Moment

Axar Patel had a golden opportunity for a hat-trick when he dismissed Towhid Hridoy and Mushfiqur Rahim off consecutive deliveries. However, his hat-trick ball saw debutant Jaker Ali mistime a shot, only for Rohit Sharma to drop a straightforward catch at mid-wicket. The skipper’s miss left the crowd in shock and Axar visibly frustrated.

What’s Next?

Speaking at the innings break, Rohit admitted his mistake: “It was an easy chance, and I should’ve taken it.” Meanwhile, Axar remained focused: “More than the hat-trick, the key is to maintain pressure and finish the job.”

With Bangladesh’s top order crumbling, their lower order now faces an uphill battle to set a competitive total.

Stay tuned for further updates from Dubai.

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