Champions Trophy: Rain adds twist to India’s opener against Bangladesh

Dubai: The light early morning showers in Dubai have added a fresh challenge, cooling temperatures but introducing an element of unpredictability to the pitch. With history favoring chasing teams at this venue, and pacers likely to enjoy early movement, the toss could be more decisive than ever.

India will face Bangladesh in the Champions Trophy opener at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Thursday, and the rain across the UAE could impact the contest between the Group A teams.

While the heat had been rising in anticipation of the match, the showers have provided some relief, lowering the temperatures.

The National Centre of Meteorology’s weather bulletin for Thursday stated: “Partly cloudy and cloudy at times with the probability of light rainfall around coastal areas. There will be a gradual increase in temperature during the day, and it will be humid at night.”

The early morning rain makes the toss even more significant. Dubai has a reputation for favoring teams chasing, and recent trends back that up. In the recently concluded DP World ILT20, which wrapped up on February 9, 25 matches were won by teams batting second, with only two of those victories coming in day games.

The showers could allow the pitch to retain some moisture, assisting pacers at the start of the innings. Both India and Bangladesh boast quality fast bowlers, and Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto is pleased with the strength of his pace attack.

“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 told reporters.

Pace sensation Nahid Rana, who regularly clocks over 140 kmph, could trouble the Indian batters early in the innings with the new ball.

However, Indian skipper Rohit Sharma remains confident that the Men in Blue have the arsenal to handle any challenge.

“I never go with a set plan. Whatever works for us, we will try and do that. Dew is a very unknown factor to all of us, and it is very unpredictable. Similarly, we have the arsenal to combat overcast conditions,” he said confidently.

A good battle between bat and ball is always a treat for fans, and the mix of heat on the field and cool conditions outside sets the stage for an exciting clash. Over to the Ring of Fire.