Champions Trophy Semi-Final 2: India Demolish Bangladesh To Reach The Final
Highlights:
- India defeated Bangladesh by 9 wickets at Edgbaston
- India is through to the finals for the second time a row
- India will take on Pakistan in the final on June 18, Sunday
Defending champions India cruised past Bangladesh to set up the encounter the world wants to watch against Pakistan. Chasing a par target of 264, Indian batsman Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli destroyed the Bangladeshi bowling unit to see India through to a comfortable win by 9 wickets. India dished out a clinical performance to book a record fourth final appearance at the ICC Champions Trophy.
Batting first, Bangladesh got off to a steady start and were 150-2 before a mini middle-order collapse so their innings wattle’s defining spell by Kedhar Jadhav(2-22) ensured that India was in control of the game. Losing a host of wickets in quick succession, Tamim Iqbal (70) and Mushfiqur Rahim (61) held the innings together to ensure Bangladesh posted a respectable total of 264 runs for the loss of 7 wickets. Jasprit Bumrah was the star for the Indians with the ball as he balled a tight spell of 10 runs giving away only 39 runs and picking up 2 wickets.
The Indian chase got off to a lightning quick start as Shikhar Dhawan hit a few lofty strokes as he raced to 46 off just 34 balls. Rohit Sharma continued his fine form and scored a magnificent century (123) as he and skipper Virat Kohli (96) notched up a dazzling partnership to see India past the finishing line. Virat Kohli proved once again why he’s considered one of the best batsmen in the world as he hit some sumptuous shots.
Rohit Sharma was adjudged the man of the match for his fine batting performance which saw him bring up his 11th century. “I was quite determined today to get a big one and get the team through,” said Rohit Sharma. “As a team, we’ve been playing really good cricket. We know it’s a big one on Sunday but for now, we’ll cherish this victory.”
Virat Kohli: “We’re going to approach the final as every other game. The side that has more composure has a better chance. I’m confident of our team coming up with the goods.”
A batting master class preceded by a combined bowling effort saw India come out on top with no trouble and will put them in good stead before the final. India takes on arch-rivals Pakistan once again in the tournament as both of them will now clash for the trophy in the final on Sunday. The Oval will be bursting with vibrant supporters from both sides as each side will give it their all to be declared champions.
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