India’s pace ace Mohammed Shami has acknowledged the advantage of playing all their Champions Trophy matches at the Dubai International Stadium, where they remain unbeaten in 10 ODIs, winning nine and tying one. Shami’s latest heroics—figures of 3/48—helped India secure a four-wicket victory over Australia in the semi-finals on Tuesday, setting up a final showdown against either South Africa or New Zealand, also in Dubai.
India has benefited from a hybrid tournament arrangement, avoiding travel to Pakistan due to political tensions and playing all their matches at one venue. Meanwhile, other teams have had to shuttle between three Pakistani cities and the UAE. “It definitely helped us because we know the conditions and the behaviour of the pitch,” Shami admitted after the semi-final. “It is a plus point that you are playing all the matches at one venue.”
Gambhir Defends India’s Position
Criticism has mounted from rival teams over India’s perceived “unfair advantage” of playing exclusively in Dubai. However, India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir dismissed these claims. “What undue advantage? We haven’t practiced here even for a day. We’re practicing at the ICC Academy, and the conditions there are completely different,” Gambhir said. He called out critics as “perpetual cribbers” and urged them to “grow up.”
Shami’s Stellar Form
Shami has been instrumental in India’s campaign, starting with a five-wicket haul against Bangladesh in their opening match. The 34-year-old has consistently delivered with pace and precision, proving his mettle as one of India’s most reliable bowlers in ICC tournaments. Despite concerns over his fitness earlier in the tournament, Shami has dispelled doubts by bowling full quotas in back-to-back matches.
The veteran seamer also expressed frustration with cricket’s ban on saliva use for ball polishing, which was made permanent by the ICC in 2022. “We are constantly appealing to allow the use of saliva,” he said, highlighting its importance for reverse swing—a key weapon for fast bowlers in ODIs.
Aiming for Glory
As India prepares for Sunday’s final, Shami remains focused on contributing more to the team. “I am trying to get my rhythm back and ready to bowl long spells,” he said. Gambhir praised Shami as a “world-class performer,” lauding his hunger and dedication.
With India just one win away from lifting the Champions Trophy, their dominance in Dubai and Shami’s exceptional form could prove decisive in their quest for glory.
