New Delhi: As the cricket world watches India’s dominant performance in the Champions Trophy 2025, a controversy brews over the tournament’s hybrid hosting format. India, having secured a semifinal spot without a loss, has played all its matches in Dubai due to the Indian government’s decision not to travel to Pakistan. This arrangement has sparked criticism from former England cricketers Naseer Hussain and Mike Atherton, as well as current players like Jos Buttler and Rassie van der Dussen, who argue that India has an unfair advantage.
Sourav Ganguly, former Indian captain, countered these claims by suggesting that India would have performed even better on Pakistani pitches. “The pitches in Pakistan are much better. India would’ve scored more runs there,” he stated during an event. This assertion highlights the confidence in India’s batting prowess, which has been a key factor in their unbeaten run.
India now faces Australia in the semifinals on March 4, a match that will test their strength against a resilient Australian side, despite the absence of key players like Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Starc. Australia’s recent impressive chase of 352 against England in Lahore underscores their capability to perform under pressure. Historically, India has struggled against Australia in knockout stages, with their last victory dating back to the 2011 World Cup quarterfinal.
