Ashwin jovially remarked that some pundits and experts see the Indian team as completely at an advantage in the Champions Trophy because they are playing all their matches at one venue, Dubai.
A very large proportion of participating teams, fans, and experts complained regarding India profiting from the fact of having this hot facility right in Dubai.
In fact, Ashwin argued that playing in the same venue is not such a huge advantage as it sounds, citing as example South Africa’s performance at the Champions Trophy in 2009.
“A tournament is won based on performances and not excuses. And it makes me laugh to see the same questions being repeated in the press conferences with captains and coaches,” Ashwin said, on his YouTube channel.
“South Africa had played all of their matches at the same venue; they did not even qualify. India last played ODIs in UAE in the Asia Cup; before COVID, Ashwin added,”.
O India have never lost an ODI in Dubai: 2018 Asia Cup, spotless 2025 Champions Trophy campaign so far.
Ashwin said that opposition teams should better start focusing on performance and shortcomings rather than milking the advantages of India playing in Dubai in the Champions Trophy.
“Other teams have toured UAE and played since then, but not India. I know one team; they come to India, lose 4-0, then say that the pitches were not good. Focus on yourselves,” Ashwin said.
“That is one proud point of Indian cricket for this country. Just because somebody else sets the narrative, there is no need to get muddy on our players,” Ashwin added.
New Zealand have traveled around almost 7000 km till date but haven’t spoken a word against the scheduling.
“Let’s say New Zealand win the final, or let’s say they lose it; and if you go to one of the guys like Williamson or Santner, they will for sure say that India played well; that is why New Zealand Cricket team have fans,” Ashwin added.
