Speculations about the ‘Unfair Advantage’ for the Indian team regarding the Dubai pitch have been roaming around for quite some time now. New Zealand has reserved its spot for the finals with India. The Kiwis will be taking on the Indian side on 9 March at the Dubai International Stadium, UAE. Players from other teams have been addressing their concern over India’s matches being taken place at the UAE. South African batter, Rassie van der Dussen has been critical regarding the issue and said,
“If you can stay in one place, train in the same facilities, and play on the same pitches, it’s definitely an advantage.”
Lost Even After Being The Host
South Africa was the host of the 2009 Champions Trophy and still ended up at the bottom of the group B with just 1 victory in 3 matches. South Africa played all its 3 matches at SuperSport Park, Centurion. The Proteas began the tournament with a loss against Sri Lanka by 55 runs. They won their only match of the campaign against New Zealand by 5 wickets at SuperSport Park, Centurion. That time they did not question the ICC for the ‘Unfair Advantage’ given to them for the home ground and even a single ground for their campaign. Along with South Africa, it was West Indies who got this ‘Unfair Advantage’ with playing all their matches at The Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg.
India’s Difficulties
Indian skipper Rohit Sharma also came out with a mouth-shuttering reply about this allegation of ‘Unfair Advantage’ when asked in the press conference. He replied that Dubai is not their home and his team faces distinctive obstacles playing from that particular pitch. India has appeared for three matches in this venue where they faced three distinct pitch conditions during their three encounters.
Other Critics
“What about the advantage India have in playing only in Dubai? They don’t have to travel between venues or countries, unlike other teams.” Said Former England captain, Michael Atherton
“It’s only a short flight between Pakistan and UAE, but flying out after a game and arriving at 7 AM isn’t ideal.” South Africa batter, David Miller said.
The ICC opted for the a dual model for the Champions Trophy 2025 with Pakistan being the host but India would not travel to Pakistan and will play all its matches in Dubai due to Political friction between both countries.
