KARACHI/DUBAI: The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is off to an electrifying start as Afghanistan prepares to make history by playing its first-ever match in Karachi, while India secured a commanding six-wicket victory over Bangladesh in Dubai.

Afghanistan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi expressed excitement over the strong support expected from the Afghan diaspora in Karachi ahead of their opening clash against South Africa. The team, well-versed in subcontinental conditions, boasts a lethal spin attack led by Rashid Khan and a power-packed batting lineup featuring Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran. With South Africa struggling in ODIs recently, Afghanistan hopes to capitalize on home-like conditions to start their campaign on a high note.

Meanwhile, in Dubai, India showcased its dominance with a solid performance against Bangladesh. Shubman Gill anchored the chase with an unbeaten 101, guiding India to a six-wicket win after Mohammed Shami dismantled Bangladesh’s top order with a fiery 5-53 spell. Bangladesh recovered from 35-5 to post 228, thanks to Towhid Hridoy’s maiden ODI century (100) and Jaker Ali’s 68. However, India’s disciplined batting, led by Gill and KL Rahul (41*), ensured a comfortable chase with 21 balls to spare.

India, playing all its matches in Dubai due to political tensions with Pakistan, will now gear up for a high-stakes encounter against arch-rivals Pakistan on Sunday. Meanwhile, Afghanistan eyes a strong start against South Africa in Karachi, where a passionate home crowd is expected to rally behind them.

With gripping contests already underway, the Champions Trophy promises high-intensity clashes as teams battle for supremacy.