CT, India vs Bangladesh: Key battles to watch out for
What's the story
The Indian cricket team will take on Bangladesh in their first match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, on February 20.
The match will be played in Dubai, where India have defeated Bangladesh twice in ODIs.
The Men in Blue will be entering the tournament as favorites after a convincing 3-0 ODI series win over England at home.
Here we decode the key player battles that can be on display.
#1
Rohit Sharma vs Mustafizur Rahman
The battle between Rohit Sharma and Mustafizur Rahman can certainly be enticing.
The Indian skipper, who is among the best openers going around, has been dismissed three times by Rahman across 10 innings.
However, he has scored 130 runs off the latter's bowling at an average of 43.33, as per ESPNcricinfo.
Notably, Rohit has scored these runs at a strike rate of 105.69.
#2
Virat Kohli vs Taskin Ahmed
Another key battle will be between Virat Kohli and Taskin Ahmed.
Kohli has been phenomenal against Bangladesh in ODIs, scoring 910 runs at an average of 75.83 and a strike rate of 101.78.
Meanwhile, Taskin has dismissed him just once across four ODI meetings.
The Indian ace has scored 35 runs in this rivalry at a strike rate of 102.94.
#3
Najmul Hossain Shanto vs Mohammed Shami
The strategic battle between Najmul Hossain Shanto and Mohammed Shami is another key duel to watch out for.
The Bangladesh skipper has been in decent form lately and he would like to lead from the front.
Meanwhile, Shami leads India's pace unit and could be a potential game-changer with his venomous deliveries.
He is particularly lethal with the new ball.
#4
Ravindra Jadeja vs Mushfiqur Rahim
The Ravindra Jadeja vs Mushfiqur Rahim match-up is another interesting face-off.
Jadeja, who did well against England recently, is India's most successful bowler in the Champions Trophy.
He has dismissed Rahim once across eight ODI meetings. The batter has scored 105 runs in this battle.
On the other hand, Rahim is known for his proficiency against spin and could pose a challenge to Jadeja's left-arm spin bowling skills.