Former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar has once again taken a strong stance against former England cricketers Nasser Hussain and Michael Atherton for their claims that India had an unfair advantage during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The English duo, along with several cricketers like Jos Buttler, David Miller and Rassie van der Dussen, had raised concerns about India playing all their matches at one venue – Dubai, while other teams had to travel between multiple locations.

Sunil Gavaskar hits back at Nasser Hussain and Michael Atherton over India’s Champions Trophy scheduling 

The criticism stemmed from the hybrid model adopted by the International Cricket Council (ICC) after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) refused to send India to Pakistan due to security concerns. Under this arrangement, all of India’s matches, including the semifinals and final, were played in Dubai.

Hussain and Atherton suggested that avoiding travel and playing in familiar conditions gave India a major advantage over other teams. However, Gavaskar dismissed these accusations as baseless complaints,? asserting that the ICC had announced this decision months before the tournament, and if anyone had a problem with it, they should have spoken up before the event began—not after India won the title.

“There will be the carpers who talked about the advantage India had playing only at one venue and not having to travel between matches. However, that was decided by the ICC much before the tournament started, and any negative comment about that should have happened before the tournament’s first ball was bowled,” Gavaskar wrote in his column for Sportstar.

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Gavaskar challenges England’s history of failing despite home advantage

In a blunt response, Gavaskar questioned why England, which has hosted numerous ICC tournaments in the past, failed to capitalize on their own home advantage for decades. He further emphasized that home advantage alone does not win tournaments – it is the team’s performance, preparation, and execution under pressure that truly matter. Gavaskar pointed out that while England players were quick to complain, they had no problem playing multiple ICC events at home, yet failed to deliver until they finally won the ODI World Cup 2019.

“If ‘home advantage’ was the sole reason India won, then why did England – where most of the complaints are coming from—fail to win any ICC trophies before 2019 despite hosting the tournament several times?,” Gavaskar concluded.

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The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has concluded with India emerging as the champions, defeating New Zealand in a thrilling final at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. However, one of the most talked-about aspects of the tournament was India’s decision not to travel to Pakistan for their matches, instead playing all their games in Dubai. This decision was made due to security concerns, and it sparked a lot of debate among cricket fans and pundits alike. In the midst of this controversy, Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya offered a w??itty and diplomatic response when questioned about the issue?.

Hardik Pandya’s witty response

During a post-match press conference, Pandya was asked by a journalist why India did not travel to Pakistan for the tournament. Pandya, known for his humour and straightforwardness, replied, “I am sure Pakistani people living in Dubai must have enjoyed our performance. The question of why we didn’t go is way above my pay grade.” This response not only diffused the tension but also highlighted Pandya’s ability to handle sensitive questions with grace and humour.

Pandya’s statement acknowledged the enthusiasm of Pakistani fans while also making it clear that the decision to not play in Pakistan was beyond his authority. His focus remained on the team’s performance and the joy it brought to fans, including those from Pakistan who watched the matches in Dubai.

�ab q nae gay aur Kaha nae gay, ye sawal mere Pay grade se ??uper ka hai�

Hardik Pandya addressed the question of why the Indian team opted not to travel to Pakistan for the CT25 tournament. pic.twitter.com/AafVFFkrk4

— Tahir (@rajatahir27) March 10, 2025

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Pandya’s performance in the Champions Trophy 2025

Pandya played a crucial role in India’s success during the Champions Trophy 2025. He demonstrated his versatility as an all-rounder by scoring 99 runs and picking up four wickets in five matches. One of his notable performances was against Pakistan, where he dismissed Babar Azam, a key player for the Pakistani team.

In the semifinal against Australia and the final against New Zealand, Pandya played the role of a finisher, helping India secure victories in tense situations. His contributions were pivotal in ensuring that India remained unbeaten throughout the tournament, ultimately leading to t??heir third Champions Trophy title.

The venue controversy

The decision to have India play all their matches in Dubai was met with mixed reactions. Some argued that it gave India an unfair advantage, as they did not have to travel between venues like other teams. However, Pakistan cricket legend Wasim Akram dismissed this notion, stating that India’s dominance in the tournament would have remained unchanged even if they had played in Pakistan. Akram praised India’s depth and leadership, highlighting their unbeaten run in both the T20 World Cup 2024 and the Champions Trophy 2025.

Team spirit and success

Pandya attributed India’s success to the team’s spirit and unity. He emphasized that the team is not driven by individual performances but rather by collective effort and belief in each other’s abilities. Pandya noted that every player feels capable of making a difference, which has been a key factor in their recent victories.

In an era where individual brilliance often takes centre stage, Pandya’s comments underscore the importance of teamwork in achieving success at the highest level. This mindset has been instrumental in India’s recent ICC tournament wins, showcasing a team that is cohesive and resilient under pressure.

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India‘s thrilling victory in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final has sent waves of joy across the nation. However, unlike the grand festivities that followed their T20 World Cup 2024 win, there will be no open bus parade this time. The absence of such a celebration has left fans wondering why the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) decided against it.

A historic victory: India’s Champions Trophy 2025 journey

India’s journey to their third Champions Trophy title was nothing short of spectacular. Led by captain Rohit Sharma, the team remained unbeaten throughout the tournament, showcasing remarkable consistency and skill. Their final match against New Zealand was a testament to their resilience and strategic planning. Rohit’s explosive 76 runs and crucial partnerships, including a late stand between KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja, were instrumental in securing the win.

The team’s performance was a culmination of hard work and experience, with players like Virat Kohli and Rahul playing pivotal roles in the knockout stages. Kohli emphasized the importance of focusing on their skills rather than the opposition, which proved to be a winning strategy. The victory marked India’s 23rd win in 24 matches across the last three men’s ICC events since 2023, highlighting their dominance in international cricket.

Also READ: List of Player of the Match?? winners in Champions Trophy history ft. Rohit Sharma

Major reason behind not having a bus parade

The main reason behind the absence of a bus parade is the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, which is set to begin on March 22. With such a tight schedule, the players have very little time to rest before jumping back into action. The BCCI has therefore decided against organizing a large celebration, prioritizing the players’ preparation for the IPL 2025.

The IPL is one of the most popular T20 leagues globally, and players like Rohit and Kohli are key figures in their teams respectively. Sunrisers Hyderabad, featuring Mohammed Shami, has already started its pre-season camp, highlighting the urgency for players to join their respective franchises. The logistical challenges of bringing everyone together for a celebration, combined with the players’ desire for a brief break, have shifted the focus away from a bus parade to preparing for the next big tournament.

Celebrations and receptions: A different approach

While there won’t be a grand bus parade, the players have still received warm receptions upon their return. Head coach Gautam Gambhir, captain Rohit, and Shreyas Iyer were among those who received a grand welcome on March 11. Videos of the players celebrating their victory, like Rohit and Kohli dancing with stumps, have gone viral, giving fans a glimpse into the team’s joy and camaraderie.

The absence of a bus parade doesn’t diminish the significance of India’s Champions Trophy win. Instead, it reflects the pragmatic approach taken by the BCCI to ensure the players are well-prepared for the IPL and future international commitments. The focus on rest and preparation is crucial, especially given the packed cricket calendar.

Also READ: Champio?ns Trophy 2025: Ravichandran Ashwin dismisses Rachin Ravindra’s selection as Player of the ?Tournament, reveals his pick

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The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 will be remembered for many reasons, but one of the most amusing moments came when India‘s star batter, KL Rahul, forgot to remove his pads in the excitement of celebrating their historic win. This light-hearted moment encapsulates the joy and relief that comes with achieving a major victory. India’s triumph over New Zealand in the fin?al marked their third Champions Trophy title, solidifying their position as one of the most dominant teams in international cricket.

KL Rahul’s forgetfulness wreaks laughter riot in Team India

In the aftermath of India’s nail-biting four-wicket win over New Zealand, the team erupted in joy. The tension and pressure of the match dissipated as players hugged each other, tears of happiness welling up in their eyes. Amidst this euphoria, Rahul, who played a crucial role in securing the victory with an unbeaten 34, was caught on camera still wearing his batting pads. This moment of forgetfulness speaks volumes about the intensity of the celebration and the emotional release that followed their hard-fought win.

Rahul’s post-match interview revealed his inner turmoil during the match, where he confessed to being nervous but confident in his ability to see India through. His composure under pressure was a testament to his growth as a player and his value to the team. The pads, a symbol of his readiness to face any challenge, remained on as he basked in the glory of their achievement, a reminder of the adrenaline rush that comes with winning a major tournament.

Here’s the video:

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The importance of KL Rahul in the Indian ODI setup

Rahul is more than just a talented batter; he is a versatile player who has adapted to various roles within the Indian ODI team. His ability to bat in different positions, coupled with his wicketkeeping skills, makes him an invaluable asset. In the Champions Trophy 2025, Rahul demonstrated his flexibility by batting at number six, a role he embraced with grace. This shift not only showcased his adaptability but also highlighted his willingness to contribute to the team’s success in any way possible.

Rahul’s performances in the tournament were pivotal, especially in high-pressure situations. He consistently delivered when it mattered most, providing stability and ensuring that India crossed the finish line in crucial matches. His ability to handle spin effectively, as seen in the final against New Zealand, was particularly impressive. By using his feet to attack bowlers, Rahul demonstrated a significant improvement in his game, making him a formidable opponent for any bowling lineup.

Rahul’s outstanding form in the Champions Trophy 2025

Throughout the Champions Trophy 2025, Rahul was instrumental in India’s unbeaten run. His contributions may not have been the flashiest, but they were crucial. In matches against Bangladesh, New Zealand, Australia, and again in the final against New Zealand, Rahul played vital innings that helped India navigate through challengin?g phases. His scores of 41 against Bangladesh, 23 against New?? Zealand in the group stage, 42 in the semifinal against Australia, and an unbeaten 34 in the final underscore his reliability under pressure.

As India look to the future, Rahul remains a vital cog in their ODI machinery. His growth as a player, coupled with his willingness to adapt, bodes well for the team. The support from the coaching staff, particularly Gautam Gambhir, has been instrumental in his development. Gambhir’s confidence in Rahul’s abilities, highlighted by his impressive ODI average, has allowed him to flourish in different roles.

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Following India‘s triumphant ICC Champions Trophy 2025 campaign, discussions have intensified over the tournament’s standout performers. While New Zealand’s Rachin Ravindra was officially named Player of the Tournament, former India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has put forward a strong argument for a different contender. Despite multiple match-winning performances, some key names were overlooked for the top hono??ur, sparking debate among cricket experts and fans. Ashwin, who closely followed I?ndia’s campaign, believes that one player made an exceptional impact, turning matches in India’s favor at crucial moments.

Ravichandran Ashwin reveals his choice for Player of the Tournament

Ashwin strongly believed that Varun Chakaravarthy played a defining role in India’s title-winning campaign. Coming in as a replacement for Harshit Rana in India’s group-stage match against New Zealand, the mystery spinner made an immediate impact, announci??ng himself with a five-wicket haul.

Despite playing only four matches, Chakaravarthy finished as the joint second-highest wicket-taker in the tournament with nine scalps. His ability to trouble batters with deceptive variations made him India’s?? go-to bowler in the knockout stages.

“Whatever said and done, the Player of the Tournament, in my view, was Varun Chakaravarthy. He didn’t play the whole tournament, but he made a huge difference. If he wasn’t there in the final, I think this game would have been very, very different,” Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.

One of the standout moments of the final was Chakaravarthy’s dismissal of Glenn Phillips, a delivery t??hat showcased his intelligence and skill. The mystery spinner went wide of the crease, bowled a sharp googly, and deceived?? Phillips, who had no idea what hit him.

“Just look at how he dismissed Glenn Phillips. He wasn’t covering the stumps, so Varun went wide of the crease and bowled that googly. That was a game-changing moment. If I were the judge, I would have given him the Player of the Tournament award,” the former cricketer emphasized.

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List of player of the match winners in ICC Champions Trophy finals (1998-2025)

Over the years, the ICC Champions Trophy has witnessed some breathtaking individual performances in its gr?and finale. From all-round brilliance to record-breaking centuries, these match-winners have left an indelible mark on cricketing history. Hereâ€?™s a look at the Player of the Match awardees in every Champions Trophy final, spanning from 1998 to 2025.

1. 1998 �Jacques Kallis (South Africa) vs West Indies

The inaugural ICC KnockOut Trophy final saw Jacques Kallis deliver an all-round masterclass against the West Indies. First, he made a handy contribution with the bat, scoring 37 runs off 33 balls. ??However, it was his bowling that proved decisive, as he ran through the Windies lineup with 5/30 in 7.3 overs, leading South Africa to their maiden ICC title with a comfor??table 4-wicket victory.

2. 2000 �Chris Cairns (New Zealand) vs India

In one of the greatest run chases in Champions Trophy history, Chris Cairns played a knock for the ages. Chasing 265, New Zealand found themsel?ves in trouble, but Cairns stood tall, smashing an unbeaten 102 off 113 balls, with 8 fours and 2 sixes. His remarkable century steered the Kiwis to a 4-wicket win, securing their first-ever ICC trophy.

3. 2002 �No Award (India & Sri Lanka Shared Trophy)

The 2002 Champions Trophy final, played between India and Sri Lanka, ended in an anti-climax. Despite two attempts to complete the final,? rain had the final say, forcing both teams to be declared joint winners. With no result, no Player of the Match award was presented.

4. 2004 �Ian Bradshaw (West Indies) vs England

West Indies were in deep trouble at 147/8 while chasing 218 in the final against England. But Ian Bradshaw, a left-arm pacer, pulled off an unforgettable rescue act. He first took 2/38 in 9 overs, then played a heroic 34 off 51 balls, stitching a 71-run unbroken partnership with Courtney Browne to snatch ??a dramatic 2-wicket victory with seven balls to spare.

5. 2006 �Shane Watson (Australia) vs West Indies

Australia finally got their hands on the Champions Trophy, and Shane Watson played a pivotal role in the final against West Indies. He picked up 2/11 in 4 overs, dismissing two key batters, before anchoring the chase with a calm and composed 57 off 88 balls. His all-round brilliance ensured Australia comfortably chased down 139 in a rain-curtail??ed final.

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6. 2009 �Shane Watson (Australia) vs New Zealand

Australia successf??ully defended their title, thanks to Watson’s match-winning century. Chasing 201 in the final against New Zealand, Watson’s powerful 105 off 129 balls, featuring 10 fours and 4 sixes, led Australia to a six-?wicket win. His unbeaten knock sealed his second consecutive Player of the Match award in a Champions Trophy final.

7. 2013 �Ravindra Jadeja (India) vs England

In a rain-shortened 20-over-per-side final at Edgbaston, Ravindra Jadeja played a crucial role in India’s narrow victory over England. With the bat, he contributed an unbeaten 33 off 25 balls, helping India reach 129/7. With t??he ball, he was equally impactful, taking 2/24 in 4 overs, including the prized wicket of Ian Bell, as India defended the low total to clinch their second Champions Trophy.

8. 2017 �Fakhar Zaman (Pakistan) vs India

Pakistan’s victory over India in the 2017 Champions Trophy final was largely built on Fakhar Zaman’s heroics. The left-handed opener, playing just his fourth ODI, dominated India’s world-class bowling attack, smashing a breathtaking 114 off 106 balls, laced with 12 fours and 3 sixes. His innings propelled Pakistan to 338/4, setting up a comprehensive 180-run victory, their first-ever ICC Champions Trophy w?in.

9. 2025 �Rohit Sharma (India) vs New Zealand

The latest edition of the Champions Trophy 2025 final saw Rohit Sharma delivering a captain’s knock under pressure. Chasing 252 against New Zealand, Rohit played with fluency and composure, scoring a match-winning 76 off 83 balls, striking 7 fours and 3 sixes. His knock provided India with a solid platform, as the team successfully chased the target with six balls to spare, securing their thir??d Champions Trophy title.

Summary of Champions Trophy Final MVPs (1998-2025)

Also READ: List of Player of the Tournament ?winners in Champions Trophy history ft. Rachin Ravi?ndra

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Former Pakistan women’s team captain Sana Mir has lauded Rohit Sharma’s captaincy following India’s triumphant campaign in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

Rohit Sharma leads India to back-to-back ICC titles with Champions Trophy 2025 win

Rohit’s tenure as India’s white-ball captain has been nothing short of remarkable, and his latest triumph in the Champions Trophy 2025 has further cemented his legacy. Under his leadership, India has now secured back-to-back ICC trophies, with the T20 World Cup 2024 victory followed by the Champions Trophy win in Dubai. This historic achievement makes India only the third team in men’s cricket history, after West Indies and Australia, to claim consecutive ICC titles. While the heartbreak of the ODI World Cup 2023 final loss to Australia remains unforgettable, Rohit’s resilience and ta?ctical brilliance have turned tha??t despair into jubilation, proving his exceptional credentials as a leader.

Pakistan’s Sana Mir praises Rohit Sharma’s captaincy

Speaking on PTV Sports, Mir acknowledged Rohit’s tactical brilliance throughout the tournament, particularly highlighting his strategic bowling changes in the final against New Zealand. She emphasized how Rohit’s decision-making at crucial junctures played a pivotal role in India’s success, reinforcing his stature as one of the finest leaders in white-ball cricket.

Analyzing the final, Mir pointed out how both teams felt the pressure early on, especially in fielding, but India’s overall performance stood out. She particularly praised Rohit for his timely introduction of Varun Chakravarthy in the tournament and his smart use of Kuldeep Yadav in the final.

“So, I had come prepared for a big match, and when you picked New Zealand, I thought of changing my stance, but I stayed with New Zealand overall. I think the main point is that India played really good cricket—there’s no doubt about that. At the start, if you look at the fielding, both teams didn’t quite maintain the expected fielding standards today. There was definitely pressure visible. But talking about Rohit Sharma’s captaincy, no matter how much you praise it, it’s well deserved,” Sana said.

“The way he brought in Varun Chakravarthy in this tournament – he didn’t play the first two matches, then was introduced in the middle. Similarly, today, when he brought in Kuldeep Yadav around the 10th or 11th over – if you look at the previous matches, he was usually introduced around the 25th or 30th over. But that particular wicket of Rachin Ravindra at that moment was a game-changing moment. Rohit’s captaincy was absolutely outstanding today. Again, New Zealand’s batting didn’t quite get the momentum they needed—about 20-25 runs short. They fought really well, though. If they had taken their catches, it could have been a different game,” Sana concluded.

Sana Mir appreciates Rohit Sharma's captaincy throughout the tournament#ICCMensChampionsTrophy2025 #GameOnHai #DilSeCricket pic.twitter.com/2dFyyX3YfB

— PTV Sports (@PTVSp0rts) March 10, 2025

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Rohit’s dominance in ICC events 

Rohit Sharma’s record as India’s captain in ICC tournaments is nothing short of extraordinary. Across the last three global events, he has led India to an astonishing 23 victories in 24 matches, with the only blemish being the World Cup 2023 final defeat. His ability to marshal his troops in high-pre??ssure situations and guide India to multiple ICC trophies underscores his leadership prowess. By securing both the T20 World Cup and the Champions Trophy within a span of eight months, Rohit has ensured that Team India regains its dominance on the global stage. With this latest triumph, he has not only avenged the 2023 heartbreak but has also etched his name among the greatest captains in Indian cricket history.

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This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.

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