New Zealand’s all-rounder Michael Bracewell has weighed in on the ongoing discussion about India playing all of their Champions Trophy 2025 matches in Dubai. While the decision has sparked debate, with former England captains Nasser Hussain and Michael Atherton, as well as Pakistan head coach Aaqib Javed, arguing that it gives India an advantage, Bracewell remains unbothered.
“Look, it is what it is. It’s already been decided, and there’s no point dwelling on it,” Michael Bracewell told reporters after New Zealand’s training session at the ICC Academy on Friday. “What makes tournaments exciting is adapting to different conditions. Personally, I think that’s part of the challenge, and we’re just focused on playing our best cricket.”
New Zealand is set to face India in Dubai on Sunday, a match that carries significance beyond the group stage. Both teams have already qualified for the semi-finals, but this game will be a high-profile contest, marking Virat Kohli’s 300th ODI appearance. Kohli will become only the seventh Indian cricketer to reach this milestone, joining legends like Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, MS Dhoni, Sourav Ganguly, Mohammad Azharuddin, and Yuvraj Singh.
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Michael Bracewell acknowledged Kohli’s remarkable career, stating, “That’s a massive achievement—300 ODIs is impressive. Doing that in just one format speaks volumes about his consistency and dedication. I saw it firsthand at RCB, the way he prepares for each game is exceptional. India has a team full of match-winners, so it’ll be a great challenge.”
Despite both teams securing semi-final berths, New Zealand is not taking this match lightly. “Anytime you play India in an ICC event, it’s a big occasion,” Bracewell emphasized. “Winning this game would give us great momentum heading into the semi-finals.”
Regarding team selection, Michael Bracewell provided an update on Daryl Mitchell, who missed the previous match due to illness.
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“If Daryl’s fit, he’ll be back. He’s looking healthy again, and he’s a crucial part of our middle order. His experience will be valuable in such high-pressure matches.” With New Zealand training in Dubai for the first time, Bracewell noted that adjusting to the conditions quickly will be key. “The wickets here seem to offer some spin. We’ve enjoyed the pitches in Pakistan, but we believe we have a well-balanced squad that can adapt to any conditions.”
As the cricketing world gears up for this marquee clash, all eyes will be on Dubai to see if New Zealand can challenge India in their adopted home ground.
