ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Top 5 players to watch out for in the India vs Bangladesh match

The 2025 ICC Champions Trophy is set to begin on February 19, marking the tournament’s return after eight years. Hosted by Pakistan and the UAE, the event features eight top ODI teams divided into two groups. Pakistan, India, New Zealand, and Bangladesh form Group A, while Afghanistan, Australia, England, and South Africa make up Group B. The tournament follows a round-robin format in the group stage, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the semi-finals on March 4 and 5.

Cricket fans around the world are eagerly counting down the days to the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, anticipating high-intensity battles, unforgettable moments, and edge-of-the-seat thrillers. The excitement of watching top teams compete for glory, the fierce rivalries, and the unpredictability of the game make this tournament special.

The India vs Bangladesh clash in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy is set to be a crucial encounter taking place on February 20, carrying both competitive and historical significance. Scheduled as a key group-stage match, this fixture will take place in Dubai. Both teams will be aiming for a strong performance, as a win could significantly impact their chances of reaching the semi-finals.

Here’s a list of top 5 players to watch out for in the India vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy clash:

1: Virat Kohli 

One of India’s most dependable batsmen in high-pressure games, Virat Kohli has been a constant asset for the side in multiple ICC tournaments. Known for his ability to pace an innings perfectly, Kohli can anchor the chase or accelerate when required. His technique against both pace and spin makes him a difficult batter to contain. Kohli’s role in guiding India's middle order will be crucial. If Bangladesh’s bowlers fail to dismiss him early, he has the potential to take the game away single-handedly. His battle against Bangladesh’s spinners, particularly Mehidy Hasan, will be a key matchup to watch.

Against Bangladesh, Virat Kohli has played in 16 ODIs, scoring a total of 910 runs with an average of 75.83.

2: Shubman Gill

One of India's most promising young batsman, Shubman Gill has been rising for the men in blue in ODI format. With a compact technique and the ability to play both aggressive and composed innings, Gill will look to dominate Bangladesh’s pace attack early on. His strong back-foot play and fluency against spin will be key, especially in Dubai’s conditions, where the ball might grip a bit. If Gill finds his rhythm, he can set up a big total or make the chase much easier.

Against Bangladesh, Shubham Gill has played in 2 ODIs, scoring a total of 174 runs with an average of 87.

3: Mehidy Hasan Miraz

One of Bangladesh’s most crucial players, Mehidy Hasan Miraz offers both tight off-spin bowling and handy contributions with the bat. His ability to bowl economically and take wickets in the middle overs makes him a serious threat to India’s batting lineup. Additionally, his batting skills down the order can provide Bangladesh with crucial runs if needed. His all-round capabilities make him a key figure in Bangladesh’s strategy for this high-stakes match.

Against India, Mehidy Hasan Miraz has played in 7 ODIs, taking 7 wickets and scoring 231 runs.

4: Liton Das

One of Bangladesh’s most elegant batters, Liton Das is capable of playing attacking cricket from the start. His ability to take on fast bowlers early in the innings makes him a key player. If Litton can get off to a quick start, Bangladesh will have the momentum needed to put pressure on India. His recent form suggests he has the capability to play a match-winning knock if he finds his rhythm. If Litton finds his timing, he can give Bangladesh the start they need to compete strongly in the match.

Against India, Liton Das has played in 11 ODIs, scoring 371 runs with an average of 33.72.

5: Mohammed Shami

In the absence of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami will be a crucial player for the Indian Cricket Team. His ability to generate movement with the new ball and his deadly yorkers in the death overs make him a key figure in India’s bowling attack. He has a history of troubling Bangladesh’s top order, with his ability to extract seam movement and generate pace. His experience in handling pressure situations and his knack for picking early wickets could put Bangladesh on the back foot right from the start. 

Against Bangladesh, Mohammed Shami has played in 4 ODIs, taking 9 wickets with an economy of 5.34.