Rohit Sharma refuted claims of an advantage for India playing all matches in Dubai, explaining the unpredictability of pitch conditions. He noted that each pitch differs significantly, requiring adaptability. India, who has a strong record in Dubai, will face Australia in the semi-finals, with significant implications for the final match location depending on the outcome.
Captain Rohit Sharma has dismissed claims that India’s matches being held in Dubai confer an advantage in the Champions Trophy. Ahead of their semi-final against Australia, India opted out of playing in Pakistan due to ongoing political tensions, arriving at the tournament aware that all their fixtures would take place in the United Arab Emirates. Unlike India, other teams have had to adapt to varying conditions across different venues including Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi.
Despite winning all three group stage matches, Rohit asserts that his team’s performance has not been significantly aided by the consistent venue. “The three matches we played, the nature of the surface was the same. But in all three games, the pitch has behaved differently,” he explained, emphasizing the unpredictable challenges presented by the pitch conditions in Dubai.
During the tournament, players need to remain adaptable, as each pitch can offer distinct challenges. Rohit remarked, “We don’t know which pitch is going to be played in the semi-final. But whatever happens, we have to adapt and see what is happening.” He reiterated that, although they have enjoyed success in Dubai, it is still a foreign environment for the team.
India holds a favorable record with eight wins in nine ODIs played in Dubai. Their upcoming semi-final against Australia will determine which team advances to the final against either New Zealand or South Africa. The implications of the match are significant: a victory for India means the final will also be held in Dubai, while an Australian win would shift the final to Lahore.
Rohit Sharma has firmly stated that playing all matches in Dubai does not provide a distinct advantage to the Indian cricket team in the Champions Trophy. He highlighted the differences in pitch behavior during their games, indicating that adaptability is crucial. As the semi-final approaches, both teams face uncertainties, but India is prepared to meet the challenges presented by the venue.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
