The Indian cricket team has faced criticism for playing all of its Champions Trophy 2025 matches in Dubai. Due to the team’s decision not to play in Pakistan, Dubai International Cricket Stadium was chosen as the neutral venue for India’s games. This arrangement meant India didn’t have to travel between venues, unlike other teams who had to travel to play against them. This led to claims that India had an ‘unfair advantage’.
Addressing these claims, Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir and fast bowler Mohammed Shami expressed opposing views. Cricket analyst Aakash Chopra pointed out this difference and questioned who was correct.
Gambhir dismissed the idea of an undue advantage, stating, “What undue advantage? We practice at the ICC Academy, where the conditions are different from the stadium. Some people always complain and need to mature.” This was said after India’s victory over Australia in the Champions Trophy semi-final.
However, Shami, a key bowler for India, believes playing all games in Dubai is a significant advantage. He explained, “It has definitely helped us because we understand the conditions and how the pitch behaves. Playing all matches at one venue is a plus. The key is to assess the conditions and pitch behaviour, which is easier when you play in the same location.” This was Shami’s perspective after the match against Australia.
Chopra, in a video on his YouTube channel, highlighted these contrasting statements. He noted, “Mohammed Shami says there’s an advantage playing in Dubai. Gautam Gambhir says there’s no advantage, and people are just complaining. So, who is right? Is there an actual advantage or not? We are playing all our matches in Dubai.”
Chopra further elaborated, “There are two sides to this. One is the issue of travel. Is travel a problem? I wouldn’t say travel alone causes losses. Fatigue is a factor, but it’s not decisive in international cricket.”
India is scheduled to play against New Zealand in the Champions Trophy 2025 final on March 9th at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
