India’s batting coach, Sitanshu Kotak, refuted claims that playing in Dubai offers India a competitive advantage in the Champions Trophy. India remains focused on performance as they face New Zealand in the final, with both teams acknowledging that past results do not dictate future outcomes.
India’s batting coach, Sitanshu Kotak, has dismissed claims that playing the Champions Trophy matches in Dubai provides the team with an unfair advantage. He argued that India’s matches were assigned to this venue prior to the tournament and expressed that the speculation around an advantage is unwarranted. Kotak emphasized that their successful performance is a result of playing good cricket rather than any location benefits, stating, “The draw that happened, it happened before.’
As India prepares to face New Zealand in the final at Dubai International Stadium, there have been concerns regarding the travel schedule, as teams from Pakistan have experienced logistical challenges. Kotak reflected on this, noting, “It is not that after coming here, they changed something, and we got an advantage.” Despite the criticisms, he maintained that India’s successful record in the tournament stems from their skill and preparation.
India secured their place in the final after winning all four previous matches, including a decisive victory over New Zealand in the group stage. New Zealand’s head coach, Gary Stead, remarked that the venue decision is beyond their control and is more focused on their own adaptability to the conditions. He stated, “If we’re good enough to beat India on Sunday, then I’m sure we’ll be very, very happy.”
Both teams approach the final with an understanding that previous matches bear little influence on the upcoming game, and the focus remains on delivering strong performances on the day.
In conclusion, India’s coach has refuted claims of an advantage from playing in Dubai for the Champions Trophy, emphasizing that performance is key. Despite assertions of logistical challenges faced by other teams, both India and New Zealand are focused on seizing the opportunity to compete in the final on equal terms. The upcoming match promises to be a showcase of skill and strategy rather than venue-related advantages.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
