As Team India prepares for yet another final in a high-profile cricket tournament, fans in Dubai and back home are already celebrating. India’s dominant run in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has captivated fans with electrifying performances, but behind the festive atmosphere lies growing controversy.
Critics argue that the tournament has been manipulated to favor India, with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) leveraging its wealth to influence the International Cricket Council (ICC). From the outset, India’s insistence on playing its matches in Dubai, while the tournament is officially hosted in Pakistan, has sparked frustration. Citing security concerns, India refused to travel to Pakistan, opting for a hybrid model, which has created logistical headaches for other teams like Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa.
Also Read: Steve Smith Retires from ODIs After Champions Trophy Exit
This preferential treatment has drawn criticism from several former cricket legends, including Mike Atherton and Michael Vaughan, who have publicly expressed their discontent. Players and teams have largely remained silent, fearing repercussions on their lucrative Indian Premier League (IPL) contracts, but behind the scenes, frustrations are brewing.
New Zealand and South Africa, in particular, have been vocal about the arduous travel schedules, which have negatively impacted their preparations for key matches. The situation mirrors previous complaints from the T20 World Cup, where teams also voiced concerns over India’s preferential accommodations and travel schedules.
As India marches towards the final, the ill-feeling among teams could lead to deeper rifts within world cricket, raising concerns about potential fallouts or the formation of a bloc of disgruntled teams in the near future.
