India defeats Bangladesh by six wickets in Champions trophy opener

New Delhi: India secured a six-wicket victory over Bangladesh in their opening Group A match of the Champions Trophy, with Shubman Gill’s unbeaten century and Mohammad Shami’s exceptional bowling leading the way.

Chasing a target of 229 runs, India reached 231 for four in 46.3 overs. Gill remained unbeaten on 101 off 129 balls, hitting nine fours and two sixes.

Wicketkeeper-batsman KL Rahul contributed an unbeaten 41, while captain Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli scored 41 and 22 runs, respectively. Shreyas Iyer added 15, and Axar Patel managed eight.

For Bangladesh, Rishad Hossain claimed two wickets, while Taskin Ahmed and Mustafizur Rahman took one each.

Earlier, Bangladesh opted to bat first after winning the toss. Towhid Hridoy, playing despite a muscle strain, registered his maiden ODI century, but Bangladesh was bowled out for 228 in 49.4 overs.

Mohammad Shami led India’s bowling attack with a five-wicket haul. India will next face arch-rivals and tournament hosts Pakistan on Sunday.