Controversies Rise as India Win Champions Trophy 2025
India won the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 undefeated, overcoming controversies and criticism, while Pakistan faced backlash for poor hosting arrangements.
India has made history by winning the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 without losing a single match. This is India’s third Champions Trophy win and their first in 12 years. The team won all five matches, showcasing their dominance in the tournament. However, the victory was not without its share of controversies.
Controversies Before the Tournament
Before the tournament began, India faced criticism for selecting four spinners in their squad. Many experts suggested dropping a spinner for a fast bowler, especially since Jasprit Bumrah was injured. However, Captain Rohit Sharma defended the decision, saying he understood the pitch conditions in Dubai. After India’s win, critics praised Rohit’s strategy.
Scheduling and Travel Issues
Another controversy was the tournament schedule. India played all their matches in Dubai due to security concerns in Pakistan. This led to complaints from other teams, who had to travel between Pakistan and Dubai. Critics argued that India had an unfair advantage by staying in one place. However, Coach Gautam Gambhir dismissed these claims, stating that India trained at the ICC Academy, where pitches were different from the stadium. Rohit Sharma also clarified that Dubai was not India’s home ground.
Pakistan’s Poor Hosting
Pakistan, the host country, faced criticism for poor arrangements. Many matches had empty stadiums, and three games were canceled due to rain. During one match in Lahore, ground staff used mops and sponges to clear water after just 30 minutes of rain, raising questions about the drainage system. Despite a $70 million budget from the ICC, the facilities were disappointing.
Award Ceremony Controversy
The award ceremony also sparked controversy when no Pakistani officials were present, even though Pakistan was hosting an ICC event after 29 years. ICC Chairman Jay Shah and BCCI President Roger Binny attended, but PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi was absent. The ICC clarified that Naqvi was invited but could not attend due to prior commitments or illness.
Praise for Team India
Despite the controversies, India’s performance was widely praised. Pakistani legend Wasim Akram said, “Even if India played in Pakistan, it wouldn’t have made a difference because India are that good.” The team’s hard work and unity were key to their success.
Conclusion
India’s victory in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is a proud moment for the nation. While controversies surrounded the tournament, the team’s unbeaten performance proved their strength and skill. What are your thoughts on India’s win and the controversies? Let us know in the comments.
