India’s impressive performance in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has raised questions about whether their exclusive arrangement of playing all matches in Dubai has provided them with an advantage. The Men in Blue secured their spot in the final with a thrilling four-wicket victory over Australia, powered by Mohammed Shami’s stellar bowling performance of 3/48 and Virat Kohli’s magnificent innings of 84 runs.
However, conflicting statements from the Indian team have now drawn attention. While Mohammed Shami acknowledged that playing all their matches in Dubai helped the team adapt to the conditions, head coach Gautam Gambhir firmly dismissed any notion of an advantage.
Mohammed Shami and Gautam Gambhir Differ on Dubai’s Advantage in ICC Champions Trophy 2025
The contrasting views of Shami and Gambhir have sparked speculation about whether there is a lack of alignment within the Indian camp as they prepare for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final against New Zealand, scheduled for March 9 in Dubai.
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Former Indian batter Aakash Chopra weighed in on the debate, sharing his perspective on the differing statements. While he acknowledged that playing at the same venue doesn’t guarantee victory, he admitted that it does help teams become more comfortable with the conditions.
In a YouTube video, Chopra stated, “Mohammed Shami is saying that they have an advantage of playing in Dubai. Gautam Gambhir is saying, ‘What advantage? You just keep cribbing in life; look ahead.’ So, who is correct? Is there an actual advantage or not? We are playing all our matches in Dubai.”
It’s Not Make or Break: Aakash Chopra on India’s ‘Home Advantage’ Debate
Chopra acknowledged that travel can lead to fatigue but emphasized that it isn’t a decisive factor in winning or losing international matches. He also noted that while staying in one location may not be a massive advantage, it does help teams understand the conditions better and make informed player selections.
The former cricketer explained, “There are two aspects to it. One is the problem because of travel. Is it a problem? I won’t say that you lose only because you have had to travel more. I am not denying that there is fatigue, but it’s not make or break. You are playing international cricket. Being in one place is not much of an advantage, but there is an advantage because of the conditions. These conditions suit you, and you can choose your 11 or 15 accordingly.”
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If Krishna is on Your Side, That’s It: Aakash Chopra on India’s CT 2025 Final Chances
As the final approaches, the debate over India’s so-called “home advantage” in Dubai continues to dominate discussions. However, the real test lies in whether the Men in Blue can sustain their winning momentum when it matters most. Chopra suggested that with ‘Krishna on their side,’ there is no need to worry.
He also emphasized the importance of proper player selection in determining the outcome of the title match. Chopra concluded by saying, “Mahabharat taught us one thing. If Krishna is on your side, that’s it; it’s over. The right selection is extremely important.”
