Rift between Gautam Gambhir and Mohammed Shami? Ex-India star drops bombshell on 'Dubai advantage' controversy

India’s dominant run in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has sparked debate over whether their exclusivity of playing all matches in Dubai has given them an edge. The Men in Blue stormed into the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final with a thrilling four-wicket victory over Australia, thanks to Mohammed Shami’s brilliant spell of 3/48 and Virat Kohli’s stunning knock of 84 runs.

However, after the match, contrasting statements from the Indian camp have now caught attention. Recently, Mohammed Shami acknowledged that playing all their matches in Dubai helped the team adjust to the conditions, but head coach Gautam Gambhir completely dismissed the idea that his team had any advantage.

Mohammed Shami and Gautam Gambhir disagree over Dubai's advantage in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025

Shami and Gambhir’s conflicting views have led to speculation about whether they are not on the same page or whether there is an issue in the Indian camp ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final against New Zealand, which is set to be held on March 9 in Dubai.

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Now, former Indian batter Aakash Chopra shared his views on Shami and Gambhir’s different statements. The cricket expert has insisted that playing at the same venue does not guarantee victory, but he admitted that it certainly helps teams get comfortable with the conditions.

Aakash Chopra said in a video posted on his YouTube channel, “Mohammed Shami is saying that they have an advantage of playing in Dubai. Gautam Gambhir is saying, ‘What advantage? You just keep cribbing in life; look ahead.’ However, who is saying the right thing? Is there an actual advantage or not? We are playing all our matches in Dubai.”

It’s not make or break: Aakash Chopra on India's 'home advantage' debate

However, the commentator admitted that travel can cause fatigue, but it doesn’t play a key role in winning or losing an international match. Chopra also pointed out that staying in one place might not be a huge advantage, but it certainly helps to understand the conditions and select the right players.

The former Indian cricketer explained, “There are two aspects to it. One is the problem because of travel. Is it a problem? I won’t say that you lose only because you have had to travel more. I am not denying that there is fatigue, but it’s not make or break.

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You are playing international cricket. Being in one place is not much of an advantage, but there is an advantage because of the conditions. These conditions are suiting you. You can choose your 11 or 15 according to that.”

If Krishna is on your side, that’s it: Aakash Chopra on India's CT 2025 Final chances

Ahead of the final, India’s so-called “home advantage” in Dubai remains a hot topic, but the real challenge lies in whether the Men in Blue can maintain their winning streak when it matters most, and Chopra said in his style that when ‘Krishna is on their side,’ there is no need to worry.

However, the cricket pandit said that the right selection will be a significant factor in deciding the winner of the title. He signed off by saying, “Mahabharat taught us one thing. If Krishna is on your side, that’s it; it’s over. The right selection is extremely important.”