India’s batting coach, Sitanshu Kotak, dismisses claims of unfair advantage in the Champions Trophy due to the Dubai venue. He emphasizes that India’s success is based on skill, not location. Logistical challenges faced by other teams further complicate the debate. New Zealand’s head coach, Gary Stead, shares a similar perspective, focusing on performance rather than external circumstances.
India’s batting coach, Sitanshu Kotak, has refuted claims that playing all Champions Trophy matches in Dubai provides an unfair advantage. He emphasized that the venue selection was made prior to the tournament and India has performed well based on their cricketing skills rather than location. Kotak expressed skepticism towards the notion that criticism is warranted due to India’s success, stating, “The draw… happened before. After India winning four matches… I don’t know what to say about it.”
The debate surrounding venue advantages is further complicated by logistical challenges faced by other teams. For instance, South African batsman David Miller remarked on the difficulties of traveling back and forth between Pakistan and Dubai. Additionally, both teams had to adapt to different pitch conditions: whereas Pakistan’s tracks facilitated high scores, Dubai’s pitches present a slow and turning challenge. As Kotak observed, “End of the day, you have to play good cricket every day when you turn up.”
India has consistently remained strong throughout the tournament by topping Group A and defeating heavyweight teams. Meanwhile, New Zealand’s journey has involved both a group stage loss to India and a semi-final victory against South Africa. Kotak noted that their past encounter should not affect the mindset of his players going into the final, advocating for a focus on performing well in the present.
New Zealand’s head coach, Gary Stead, acknowledged the circumstances but asserted that they do not dwell on external factors. He stated, “The decision… is out of our hands, so it’s not something we worry about too much.” Stead remains confident that New Zealand can learn from their previous experiences and ultimately secure victory if they play to their potential in the final match.
In summary, India’s batting coach, Sitanshu Kotak, firmly denies any perceived advantage from playing in Dubai for the Champions Trophy. He and New Zealand head coach Gary Stead agree that focus should be on the game rather than external factors. Both teams have navigated their respective challenges and are set for an exciting final, reaffirming the essence of cricket being determined by performance on the pitch.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
