Some people believe India has a big advantage in the ICC Champions Trophy because they will play all their matches in Dubai, including the semi-finals and finals. South African cricketer Rassie van der Dussen said this could benefit India more than other teams.
“If you stay in one place, in the same hotel, practice at the same ground, and play on the same pitches every time, it’s definitely a big help,” van der Dussen said.
Source: ESPN
Since India won’t have to travel, they will be more comfortable with the Dubai conditions. Other teams, however, will have to travel, adjust to new places, and face extra challenges.
How Does the Champions Trophy Hybrid Model Work?
Pakistan is the host, but India will play its matches in Dubai, a neutral place. Similarly, if India hosts a tournament in the future, Pakistan will play in a neutral place too.
This setup has led to some questioning whether India benefits unfairly, as they avoid the uncertainties of travel and can focus on adapting to one specific pitch and stadium.
What Do Other Cricket Experts Say?
Van der Dussen is not the only one who sees an advantage for India. Australian captain Pat Cummins also acknowledged the benefit, saying, “It does give them a huge advantage playing on the same ground. They already look very strong and they’ve got that obvious benefit of playing all their games there.”
However, not everyone believes it plays a decisive role. Pakistan’s head coach Aaqib Javed admitted that while there is an advantage, it was not the reason behind his team’s loss to India. “If they are playing in Dubai for a reason, definitely they have an advantage. But we did not lose just because of that. They didn’t play ten matches there.”
What Does This Mean for South Africa?
Source: TimesOfIndia
South Africa is now preparing for their last group match against England in Karachi. If they reach the semi-finals, they will play against India in Dubai or New Zealand in Lahore. Van der Dussen said he would rather play in Lahore because the batting conditions are better. “It will be easier to play in Lahore. We don’t need to take an international flight or travel to another country.”
That being said, he assured that South Africa is prepared to adapt to any conditions. “As a team, we have everything in the locker to adjust to whatever is in front of us. No location suits us better or worse.”
Why Does Playing in One Venue Matter?
- Familiarity with Pitch Conditions: Playing on the same pitch repeatedly helps batsmen and bowlers adjust and refine their strategies.
- Reduced Travel Fatigue: Other teams face inter-city or even international travel, which can affect player fitness and preparation.
- Consistent Training Facilities: India can practice on the same pitches and under the same conditions they will face during matches.
These factors combine to make India a formidable contender, especially if they reach the knockout stages.
Is This Fair?
This remains a topic of debate. Some argue that every tournament has unique advantages and challenges, and India simply benefits from an ICC-approved setup. Others feel that all teams should have a level playing field, with equal exposure to different conditions.
For now, South Africa and other competing teams can only focus on their game plans. If India does have an advantage, the pressure is on them to make full use of it.
Final Thoughts
India’s journey in the Champions Trophy continues with high expectations, but as van der Dussen pointed out, “The pressure would be on them to get it right because they have all that knowledge.”
As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on whether India’s home-like advantage translates into silverware—or if another team can rise above the challenge and claim the title.
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