Indian Captain Rohit Sharma Denies Axar Patel A Hat-trick Against Bangladesh. Here’s What Exactly Happened During Champions Trophy 2025

The second match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 witnessed an electrifying showdown between India and Bangladesh at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Bangladesh, eager to make an impact, won the toss and opted to bat first. However, their aspirations of a solid start were soon derailed by a mesmerizing spell from Axar Patel, whose near hat-trick left the cricketing world in awe.

Bangladesh’s Batting Strategy and Initial Struggles

After choosing to bat, Bangladesh hoped to capitalize on the conditions and put up a competitive total against a formidable Indian bowling attack. Their openers, Tanzid Hasan and Litton Das, began cautiously, looking to settle in before playing aggressive shots. However, India’s disciplined bowling kept them on the back foot, building pressure with tight lines and controlled variations.

As Bangladesh attempted to break free from the shackles, Axar Patel was introduced into the attack—a move that would soon shift the game’s momentum entirely.

Axar Patel’s Twin Strikes in One Over

The defining moment arrived in the eighth over when left-arm spinner Axar Patel produced a sensational double strike. On the second delivery of the over, Axar bowled a flat-length delivery outside off-stump to Tanzid Hasan, who attempted a cut shot but only managed an edge. Wicketkeeper KL Rahul, ever reliable behind the stumps, made no mistake in pouching the catch. Axar, initially unsure whether the ball had taken an edge, was reassured by the umpire’s firm decision, sending Tanzid back to the pavilion for 25 off 25 balls.

With confidence soaring, Axar delivered another beauty on the very next ball. This time, veteran batter Mushfiqur Rahim was at the receiving end. Looking to defend a well-pitched delivery, Mushfiqur found himself undone by subtle turn and bounce. The ball caught the shoulder of his bat and nestled safely into KL Rahul’s gloves once again. The Indians erupted in jubilation as Mushfiqur walked back for a golden duck, leaving Bangladesh reeling.

Rohit Sharma’s Costly Drop Denies Hat-Trick

With two wickets in two balls, Axar Patel was on the brink of achieving a rare and prestigious feat—a hat-trick. The stadium held its breath as new batter Jaker Ali took guard, the tension palpable among players and fans alike.

Axar bowled a well-flighted delivery just outside off-stump, tempting Jaker into a defensive push. The ball took the outside edge and flew straight to first slip, where Indian skipper Rohit Sharma stood poised to claim the historic catch.

In a moment that stunned everyone, Rohit fumbled the straightforward chance, dropping what should have been an easy grab. The disappointment was visible on Axar’s face, while Rohit himself was seen repeatedly hitting the ground in frustration, fully aware of the golden opportunity that had just slipped away.

India’s Bowling Dominance Continues

Despite the missed hat-trick, India maintained their stronghold over the contest. Axar Patel continued to weave his magic, while the rest of the bowling attack complemented him with disciplined and aggressive bowling.

Mohammed Shami and Arshdeep Singh kept the pressure on with their impeccable lines, while Kuldeep Yadav’s wrist spin added another layer of difficulty for the Bangladeshi batters. The fielding unit also displayed remarkable agility, cutting off singles and effecting tight run-out chances.

By the 15th over, Bangladesh was struggling at 62/5, with Towhid Hridoy (14*) and Jaker Ali (15*) fighting hard to rebuild the innings. However, with India’s relentless bowling attack refusing to offer any respite, the task appeared increasingly uphill.

The Road Ahead for Both Teams

As the game progressed, Bangladesh needed a miraculous partnership to stage a recovery and post a respectable total. India, on the other hand, was determined to maintain their dominance and restrict their opponents to a below-par score.

For Axar Patel, the match served as a testament to his growing stature in world cricket. Despite being denied a hat-trick, his ability to turn the game in a matter of minutes showcased his value to the Indian team. Rohit Sharma, while disappointed with the dropped catch, remained focused on leading his side to a convincing victory.

The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 continues to deliver thrilling moments, and Axar Patel’s near hat-trick will surely be remembered as one of the defining incidents of the tournament.

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