Dubai, Mar 09 (V7N) – As India and New Zealand prepare to face off in the ICC Champions Trophy final at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly has addressed the controversy surrounding India’s matches being held exclusively in Dubai.

Critics have pointed out that India benefited from playing at a single venue throughout the tournament. However, Ganguly clarified that the decision was not India’s to make but rather a consequence of the Indian government’s stance on touring Pakistan.

"Not India's Choice," Says Ganguly

Speaking before the final, Ganguly emphasized that the Indian team did not opt to play all their matches in Dubai. Instead, they were compelled to do so due to the government’s refusal to permit travel to Pakistan.

"What choice? India did not agree to play all matches in Dubai by their own choice. The Indian government is not allowing them to travel to Pakistan. That is why they have to play in Dubai. This is not in the hands of the Indian team," Ganguly stated.

Ganguly also expressed regret over Indian batsmen missing out on high-scoring conditions in Pakistan.

"Batsmen like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, and Shreyas Iyer must be disappointed. In Lahore and Karachi, teams are scoring 350-360 runs. England, Australia, and New Zealand have taken full advantage. But in Dubai, scores are restricted to 240-250. If India had played in Pakistan, we would have seen multiple centuries from our batters," he explained.

Drawing comparisons, Ganguly pointed out that India had to travel extensively in the last two ICC tournaments and still emerged victorious.

"India played in nine different cities during the World Cup at home and won the T20 World Cup in the West Indies, playing across multiple venues," he reminded critics.

Referring to a historical precedent, he recalled the 2003 World Cup when England refused to travel to Zimbabwe and forfeited points. "Every country has its own policies. The Indian team and government are not at fault for not touring Pakistan," he concluded.

As India aims for a record third Champions Trophy title, Ganguly’s remarks highlight the external challenges the team has faced while competing at the highest level.

END/MSS/AJ