Light early morning showers in Dubai have added an unexpected challenge ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 clash between India and Bangladesh on Thursday.
While the rain has offered relief from the rising heat, it could also influence conditions at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, making the toss more decisive than ever.
Dubai has historically favored chasing teams. The morning drizzle could leave moisture on the pitch, offering assistance to fast bowlers early in the innings.
Both teams boast formidable pace attacks, with Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto backing his quicks to make an impact.
“I think we have always struggled with our seam attack, but in the last couple of years, we have got some quality fast bowlers,” Shanto said.
Among them, speedster Nahid Rana, who consistently clocks over 140 kmph, could pose a serious challenge to India's top order.
Indian captain Rohit Sharma, however, remains unfazed. “We have the arsenal to combat overcast conditions,” he said.
“I never go with a set plan. Whatever works for us, we will try and do that.”
The National Centre of Meteorology has forecast partly cloudy skies with a chance of light rain on Thursday, followed by rising temperatures during the day.
Humid conditions are expected at night, potentially bringing dew into play in the second innings.
As India’s Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill, and Rishabh Pant prepared with a football warm-up session, excitement continued to build for the highly anticipated clash.
With rain, pace-friendly conditions, and high stakes in play, the opening fixture of the Champions Trophy promises a thrilling contest.
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