Dubai: India’s decision to play all its ICC Champions Trophy 2025 matches in Dubai has triggered criticism, with many alleging the Rohit Sharma-led team has gained an unfair advantage. While other teams have had to travel between venues, India has remained stationed at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, raising questions about fairness in the tournament.
Clashing Opinions Within Team India
After India’s semi-final victory over Australia, head coach Gautam Gambhir and pacer Mohammed Shami shared contrasting views on the controversy.
Gambhir dismissed the claims outright, stating,
“Kaunsi undue advantage? We practice at ICC Academy, where conditions are different. Some people are perpetual cribbers; they need to grow up.”
Shami, however, admitted that playing in Dubai had helped the team adapt to conditions better.
“It is a plus point. Knowing how the pitch behaves at one venue gives you an edge,” he said.
Expert Analysis on the Debate
Cricket analyst Aakash Chopra weighed in on the matter, analyzing both perspectives. While acknowledging travel fatigue for other teams, he noted,
“It’s not make or break. You are playing international cricket, and such challenges are part of the game.”
As India prepares for the Champions Trophy final against New Zealand on March 9 in Dubai, the debate over its scheduling advantage continues to stir discussions.
