India is unlikely to face the challenge of slow and deteriorating pitches at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium during their league-stage matches in the Champions Trophy. According to a report from PTI, two relatively new pitches have been specifically preserved for India's games in this prestigious tournament, a decision that could greatly influence match conditions.

India's journey in the Champions Trophy is set to commence on February 20 against Bangladesh, followed by a highly anticipated match against Pakistan on February 23, and concluding their group stage against New Zealand on March 2. All three matches will take place in Dubai, a venue that has recently hosted a significant amount of cricketing activity.

Since the Women’s T20 World Cup last year, Dubai has been the site of several major tournaments, including the men’s U-19 Asia Cup and the Emirates Cricket Board’s prominent ILT20 league held in January and February.

During the ILT20, the venue hosted 15 matches, including two critical knockout games. However, it has been reported that two of the ten pitches at the stadium were intentionally left unused during the league phase to ensure they remain in optimal condition for the Champions Trophy.

“There are 10 match strips at the DICS. During the league stage, there was specific instruction that those two won’t be used now and needed to be kept fresh for the Champions Trophy,” a knowledgeable source informed PTI.

“However, whether any of the two was used for the play-offs isn’t known. The idea is to ensure that it doesn’t become low and slow after over-use and matches become drag. The fresh pitches will aid the batters and bowlers in equal measure.”

What change can be expected from pitch?

Historically, the pitch in Dubai has favoured fast bowlers, allowing them to find movement and generate bounce. However, with a newly prepared surface, spinners—particularly those who bowl at a quicker pace—may prove to be pivotal. The conditions are anticipated to strike a fair balance between bat and ball, promoting competitive matches rather than slow games influenced by deteriorating pitches.

India has selected five spinners for the tournament, with Varun Chakaravarthy being included in the 15-member squad in place of Yashasvi Jaiswal last week. Chakaravarthy made his ODI debut during the recent series against England; the other four spinners are Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, and Washington Sundar.

Read Also: Indian Flag Missing at Gaddafi Stadium: Fans Link It to BCCI’s Pakistan Boycott

Get the latest Bollywood entertainment news, trending celebrity news, latest celebrity news, new movie reviews, latest entertainment news, latest Bollywood news, and Bollywood celebrity fashion & style updates!

HOW DID YOU LIKE THIS ARTICLE? CHOOSE YOUR EMOTICON!