India advanced to the final of the Champions Trophy 2025, further asserting their supremacy in Dubai with an impressive four-wicket victory over Australia in the semi-final. Mohammed Shami's exceptional bowling performance, taking 3 wickets for 48 runs, alongside Virat Kohli's decisive innings of 84 runs, ensured that the Men in Blue continued their unbeaten streak at the Dubai International Stadium.

Nevertheless, India's success at a single location has sparked renewed discussions regarding whether their exclusive matches in Dubai have provided them with an unfair advantage. While veteran bowler Shami recognized the advantages of being accustomed to the local conditions, head coach Gautam Gambhir firmly rejected this idea, highlighting a divergence of views within the team.

“It certainly aided us because we are familiar with the conditions and the pitch's behavior,” Shami stated, as reported by AFP. “It is beneficial to play all matches at one venue.”

In contrast, Gambhir expressed a different perspective when speaking to the press.

“There is considerable discussion about the supposed undue advantage. What undue advantage? We haven’t trained here even for a single day. Our practice has been at the ICC Academy, and the conditions there are completely different from here,” Gambhir remarked.

“If you compare the pitches at both locations, the disparity is vast. Some individuals are just chronic complainers. They need to mature. Therefore, I believe there was no undue advantage or any premeditated strategy on our part.”

Aakash Chopra reacts

In light of the differing opinions, former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra contributed to the discussion. Addressing the remarks made by both Mohammed Shami and Gautam Gambhir, Chopra noted that while competing at a single venue does not inherently confer a significant advantage, it does facilitate a better adaptation to the playing conditions.

“Mohammed Shami claims that they benefit from playing in Dubai, while Gautam Gambhir counters with, ‘What advantage? You should focus on the future instead of complaining.’ But who is correct? Is there a genuine advantage or not? All our matches are being held in Dubai,” Chopra stated on his YouTube channel.

Chopra analyzed the issue from two perspectives, highlighting that while the frequent travel between Pakistan and the UAE may contribute to fatigue, it is not the primary determinant of match outcomes.

“There are two sides to this. One is the challenge posed by travel. Is it a concern? I wouldn’t assert that travel alone leads to losses. While fatigue is a factor, it is not the decisive element. You are competing at the international level,” he explained.

Chopra further underscored that the true advantage lies in comprehending the pitch and environmental conditions, which aids in making informed team selections.

“Staying in one location does not provide a substantial advantage, but the conditions can be beneficial. You can tailor your squad of 11 or 15 players accordingly. The Mahabharata teaches us a valuable lesson: if Krishna is on your side, victory is assured. Making the right selections is crucial.”

Read Also: Gambhir’s ‘Hollow Victory’ Slammed: South African Media’s Scathing Attack on India’s Head Coach

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