ICC Champions Trophy 2025: India’s 'unfair' venue advantage? Australian captain’s honest claim!
Xtra Time Web Desk: India is on the brink of securing a place in the Champions Trophy semi-finals after dominant wins over Bangladesh and Pakistan at the Dubai International Stadium. If results go their way, their final group-stage match against New Zealand on Sunday could serve as a mere warm-up before the knockouts.
India, which opted out of playing in Pakistan due to security concerns, has played all its matches in Dubai under a hybrid model. However, Australian captain Pat Cummins believes this scheduling gives India a significant advantage.
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"I think it's good that the tournament can go on, but obviously, it does give them (India) a huge advantage playing on the same ground," Cummins told Yahoo Sport Australia. "They already look very strong and have that obvious benefit."
Cummins skipped the Champions Trophy to be at home for the birth of his second child, daughter Edi, and to recover from an ankle injury. He is set to return to action next month, leading SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the Indian Premier League (IPL), which begins on March 22.
"It's been nice to be at home with everything going on, and the ankle rehab is tracking well," Cummins said. "I'll start running and bowling this week. There's the IPL, then the Test World Championship and a tour to the West Indies, so there's a lot to look forward to."
In Cummins’ absence, Steve Smith is captaining Australia, who began their campaign with a thrilling chase of 352 against England in Lahore. Josh Inglis starred with an unbeaten 120 off 86 balls, earning praise from Cummins.
"It feels like this was his breakout performance," Cummins said. "He's so dynamic against spin in the middle, but also uses the reverse ramps against high-speed bowling. He's all class. He now has hundreds in all three formats and stood up in a big tournament. He’s been made to wait, but he’s ready."
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With India on the verge of the semi-finals and Australia making a strong start, the Champions Trophy is shaping up for an exciting finish.
