NEW DELHI: Gavaskar slams critics who claim India’s fixed venue in Dubai gives them an unfair advantage in the Champions Trophy. He dismissed the allegations as baseless and urged critics to focus on their own teams.
Former England captains Nasser Hussain and Michael Atherton questioned India’s decision to play all matches in Dubai. They suggested it benefits India. Gavaskar strongly disagreed.
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Sunil Gavaskar Slams Critics
Gavaskar hit back at the allegations, calling them illogical. “How can it be an advantage? You are not controlling the pitch; you are only staying in one place. It’s just beyond understanding,” he said.
He challenged critics to analyze their own teams instead. “Why don’t you actually look at why your team has not qualified? Rather than constantly focusing on India, are you even looking at your own backyard?”
Gavaskar also pointed out India’s impact on global cricket. “They don’t understand India’s position in world cricket. India are ahead in terms of generating revenue. Their salaries are also coming because of India and what it brings to the cricket world.”
He further criticized the mental state of players from certain teams. “Your players are in such a fragile mental state—they don’t seem to care about results as long as they meet certain expectations.”
Players and Experts React
Australian Test captain Pat Cummins acknowledged India’s advantage but saw no major issue. “I think it’s good in that the tournament can go on, but obviously it does give them (India) a huge advantage playing on the same ground,” he said.
However, Cummins denied reports that he called the tournament a “farce.” “I have definitely never said this,” he clarified.
Australian captain Steve Smith downplayed the claims after losing to India in Dubai. “I don’t think it was a huge disadvantage. They played better cricket on the day, and that’s why they won,” he said.
Indian coach Gautam Gambhir defended the venue decision. “Dubai is not our home; it’s a neutral venue. We are playing wherever the ICC has scheduled our matches,” he stated.
Gavaskar slams critics who continue to question India’s success. He insists that India’s performance, not the venue, determines their dominance on the field.
