Former Indian opener Wasim Jaffer has dismissed criticism suggesting India has an unfair advantage in the 2025 Champions Trophy by playing all their matches at the Dubai International Stadium. Responding to remarks from players like South Africa’s Rassie van der Dussen and Pakistan’s Aaqib Javed, Jaffer asserted that India had valid political reasons for not travelling to Pakistan. Given that the tournament would not have been possible without India’s participation, he argued that the hybrid model was the most practical solution.

Van der Dussen had remarked that India “definitely” held an edge by avoiding travel and playing in familiar conditions, unlike the seven other teams who had to adjust to different venues in Pakistan. While acknowledging that India would be under pressure to justify this supposed advantage, he felt the scheduling worked in their favour.

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Wasim Jaffer, however, dismissed these concerns during an interaction with ESPNcricinfo, suggesting a simple way to avoid controversy: “The ICC could have scheduled one game in Sharjah, one in Abu Dhabi, and maybe even had India check into a different hotel. Then, probably, this wouldn’t even be a discussion.” He emphasized that every country has the right to make decisions based on political and security concerns.

“What option did we have?” Wasim Jaffer continued. “The tournament isn’t happening without India. If we want India and Pakistan to play, this was the best possible solution. Maybe shifting a couple of matches within the UAE would have silenced this debate.”

Pakistan’s head coach Aaqib Javed had also voiced similar concerns before van der Dussen, suggesting India’s prolonged stay in Dubai allowed them to become more familiar with the conditions. However, he dismissed claims that this was the reason for Pakistan’s struggles, stating, “It’s not about hotels or pitches. It’s just that they have played more games here.”

With Pakistan already eliminated, India will now face New Zealand in their final group-stage game on Sunday. If both teams progress, South Africa could meet India in the semi-finals or even the final, adding another layer to this ongoing debate.