Rohit Sharma Reassures: No Home Advantage in Dubai for Champions Trophy
In a recent press conference, Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma addressed concerns regarding India’s perceived advantage in the Champions Trophy due to playing all their matches in Dubai. He firmly stated, “This is not our home; this is Dubai,” emphasizing that the pitches here present unique challenges that vary from game to game.
Adapting to Varying Pitch Conditions
Rohit acknowledged that the pitch conditions in Dubai have been inconsistent. “Every time, the pitch is giving you different challenges. The three matches that we played here, the pitch has behaved differently,” he noted. With an eye on the upcoming semifinal against Australia, he highlighted the necessity for rapid adaptation, remarking, “I don’t know which pitch is going to be played in the semifinals. Whatever happens, we will have to adapt.” This adaptability is crucial, especially considering the diverse surfaces being used throughout the tournament.
Strategic Selection of Spinners
Rohit explained the decision to include five spinners in the squad, citing insights gained from observing the ILT20 tournament held in Dubai. “We thought the slower bowlers will be a lot more helpful here,” he stated, reiterating the importance of understanding pitch conditions. He also expressed his preference for pitches that offer assistance to bowlers, adding, “When you have surfaces which are challenging, whether it’s with spin or with seam, you want to have that.”
Preparation is Key
India’s early arrival in Dubai for acclimatization has proven beneficial. Rohit shared, “Luckily, we came here five or six days before, we had good training sessions.” This proactive preparation is essential for enhancing their performance in the tournament.
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