India’s batting coach, Sitanshu Kotak, denies claims that their Champions Trophy victories in Dubai provide an unfair advantage. He emphasized that the venue was determined before the tournament. Despite differing pitch conditions and travel logistics, Kotak insists that good cricket determines success. India’s unbeaten run leads them to the finals against New Zealand, which will focus on performance over prior encounters.
India’s batting coach Sitanshu Kotak responded to claims that playing all Champions Trophy matches in Dubai offers the team an undue advantage. He emphasized that the venue decision was made prior to the tournament, making such criticisms unfounded. Kotak stated, “After India winning four matches, if people feel that there is an advantage, then I don’t know what to say about it.”
Rohit Sharma leads India into the final against New Zealand at the Dubai International Stadium, where India has remained undefeated throughout the tournament. Due to political issues, India could not tour Pakistan, thus necessitating their matches in the UAE. Kotak reiterated, “At the end of the day, I think in a game you have to play good cricket every day when you turn up.”
The logistics of the tournament have been complicated, with teams traveling between Pakistan and the UAE. South Africa’s David Miller noted the inconvenience of flying back and forth, which has stirred controversy. Kotak added that the differing pitch conditions in Pakistan and Dubai should not be pinned as a determiner of advantage.
India has dominated Group A, defeating New Zealand, Pakistan, and Bangladesh before beating Australia in the semifinals. In a prior match, India triumphed over New Zealand by 44 runs; however, Kotak asserted that past results would not affect their approach to the final.
New Zealand’s head coach, Gary Stead, remarked that they are not concerned about India’s purported venue advantage, noting, “The decision around that’s out of our hands.” He expressed confidence in learning from their prior experience in Dubai and preparing effectively for the final match.
In conclusion, India’s batting coach Sitanshu Kotak refuted the notion of an advantage from the Dubai venue for the Champions Trophy, asserting that the venue decision was prearranged. India has excelled in the tournament, remaining unbeaten, and will face New Zealand in the final. Both teams focus on performance rather than venue-related speculation, illustrating the unpredictability and competitiveness of cricket.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
