Following England’s early exit from the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, former captains Nasser Hussain and Michael Atherton have sparked controversy by questioning India’s advantage of playing all group-stage matches in Dubai.
They argue that the scheduling gave India an unfair edge, but cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar has strongly dismissed their claims, calling them excuses for England’s underwhelming performance.
‘Look at Your Own Team’s Failures First’
In an interview with India Today, Gavaskar didn’t hold back. “Instead of pointing fingers at India, why not analyze why England didn’t qualify?” he remarked. He criticized England’s fragile mindset, suggesting their struggles were due to their own shortcomings rather than scheduling benefits.
England, the defending champions, suffered disappointing defeats against Australia and Afghanistan, leading to heavy criticism at home.
‘Quit Complaining—India Drives Global Cricket’
Gavaskar also pushed back against similar concerns from Australia’s Pat Cummins and South Africa’s Rassie van der Dussen, who claimed India benefited from reduced travel. He dismissed these claims as part of a recurring pattern of grievances about India’s growing influence in world cricket. “They keep complaining about India—we should ignore it and focus on what matters,” he said.
He further highlighted India’s crucial role in global cricket economics, pointing out that revenue generated by Indian cricket helps sustain the sport worldwide, including benefiting England.
Dubai Scheduling Controversy
India is the only team in the Champions Trophy 2025 to play all its group-stage matches at a single venue, a decision reportedly influenced by the Indian government’s stance against traveling to Pakistan. While critics argue that this offers India an unfair advantage, others believe logistical constraints made it unavoidable.
Former Indian cricketer Wasim Jaffer even joked about the backlash, suggesting India should have simply “changed hotels” in Dubai to silence the critics.
Genuine Concern or Just a Scapegoat?
With the debate intensifying, Gavaskar’s sharp response has reignited discussions on England’s elimination. Is India’s Dubai scheduling a real issue, or is it just an excuse for England’s disappointing campaign? One thing is clear—Gavaskar isn’t letting his country take the blame without hitting back.