Ravichandran Ashwin countered claims of India's "Dubai advantage" emphasize tournaments are won through strong performances, not by making excuses
Ravichandran Ashwin has responded strongly to critics who claim India has an unfair advantage in the Champions Trophy due to playing all their matches in Dubai. Ashwin emphasized that tournament success is based on performance, not excuses. He pointed out that South Africa played all their matches at the same venue in the 2009 Champions Trophy but failed to reach the final.
Ashwin also noted that India last played ODIs in the UAE during the 2018 Asia Cup, before the COVID-19 pandemic. He indirectly criticized England, referencing a team that lost 4-0 at home and complained about pitches. Ashwin praised New Zealand for their sportsmanship, suggesting they have a strong fan base because they focus on their own performance rather than making excuses.
Ashwin's comments were made in a video on his YouTube channel, where he expressed amusement at the "unfair advantage" claims made by coaches and captains in press conferences. He urged teams to focus on their own strengths rather than criticizing others. Ashwin's stance reflects his belief that success in cricket is earned through hard work and performance, not by dwelling on perceived advantages.