Before India’s Champions Trophy 2025 opener against Bangladesh, former skipper Virat Kohli took a nostalgic trip down memory lane. Kohli acknowledged that he has a special place for this tournament, pointing out how fast-paced and competitive it is.
On Thursday, February 20, India will begin their campaign in Dubai. Virat Kohli recalled their previous first match against Bangladesh in an ICC tournament, which was the 2011 Cricket World Cup. As India went on to win the trophy, he had lifelong memories of the competition.
When we played Bangladesh in an ICC event for the first time, things went really nicely for us. In an interview with Star Sports, Virat Kohli said, “I have some very fond memories of that edition of the World Cup, which we won in 2011.”
Since the Champions Trophy is a brief competition and a single defeat might eliminate the squad, Virat Kohli emphasized the need of getting off to a solid start.
To be honest, I’ve always enjoyed this competition. Since only the top eight clubs advance based on rankings over time, playing in the Champions Trophy is a prize for consistency. Competition is always fierce,” Virat Kohli remarked.
He likened the tournament’s depth and intensity to the T20 World Cup, where teams in the league stage are only given a few games.
“You are under pressure right away if you don’t get off to a good start. The first few games, in my opinion, are really important. You have to be at your best from the beginning, and that’s what I like about the pressure that starts in game one,” he continued.
Watch the video:
The KING returns to the battlefield! 👑
Chasing his 4th ICC title, @imVkohli is pumped to face Bangladesh in their opening match, which has a bit of history! ✌
📺📱Start Watching FREE on JioHotstar!#ChampionsTrophyOnJiostar 👉 #INDvBAN, THU 20 FEB, 1:30 PM on Star Sports! pic.twitter.com/IxnlOQJ2Si
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) February 19, 2025
India
