Champions Trophy has favorable conditions for India: Cummins

Australia's captain Pat Cummins believes that India playing all their matches in Dubai in the 2025 Champions Trophy is a “huge advantage.” While other teams in the hybrid model have to travel between Pakistan and the UAE for their matches, India is playing all their games at one venue.

Under the leadership of Rohit Sharma, India is playing all their matches in Dubai. Meanwhile, other teams are traveling between Pakistan and the UAE to play their matches. The stable weather, familiar pitch, and venue work in India’s favor. With two wins already, India has advanced to the semifinals.

Although Pakistan has the hosting rights for the Champions Trophy, India refused to play there due to security concerns. This led to the introduction of the hybrid model, where some teams will play their matches in Pakistan, but India is playing all its matches in Dubai. Cummins believes this decision has created favorable conditions for India.

• India vs Bangladesh – India won comfortably.
• India vs Pakistan – India won with a significant margin.
• The last league match against New Zealand will take place in Dubai.
• India has already reached the semifinals, and the final will also be held in Dubai.

Cummins has been sidelined from the Champions Trophy due to a side injury but is expected to return to the field for IPL 2025. He has also spent quality time with his family following the birth of his daughter. His rehabilitation is progressing smoothly, and he will resume running and bowling this week.

• Single Venue Advantage – India has a better chance to perform well.
• No Travel Burden – India faces less physical and mental stress compared to other teams.
• Challenges for Other Teams – Cross-country travel, weather changes, and unfamiliar pitches will pose difficulties for other teams.
• Reaching the final might increase pressure on India as other teams will likely develop specific strategies to defeat them.

The opportunity for India to play all their matches at one venue has proven to be extremely beneficial. While other teams face the burden of travel, India continues to perform well. Cummins acknowledged this as a clear advantage for India, and while they are favorites in the Champions Trophy, other teams, especially New Zealand, Pakistan, and Australia, will provide strong competition.

For more sports news and updates, visit Vaartha Sports.