Gambhir lambasts one-venue critics, Shami admits it is an advantage

Indian coach Gautam Gambhir lambasted the critics over the unfair advantage remark of playing their matches at the same venue in the ongoing Champion Trophy.

- Mohammad Abdullah, Senior Reporter

India defeated Australia by four wickets in the semi-final to notch up their fourth straight win in the tournament in Dubai. India are playing all their matches in Dubai as they refused to travel to Pakistan because of political tension between the two countries.

Whereas the other teams are juggling between Pakistan and India to play their matches. Even the host nation Pakistan had to come to Dubai to play with India, which they lost and were sent packing from the tourney. South Africa came to the UAE in anticipation of playing their semi-final with India. As it was not confirmed where India would finish in the group stage.

India defeated New Zealand in the last league game and set up a semi clash with Australia. South-Africa had to fly back to Pakistan without playing a single ball and Australia were flown in.

The other teams and former cricketers have accused Indian of having an unfair advantage of playing all their matches at one venue. They know the pitches well and have got acclimatized to the conditions. Moreover, they are also avoiding the travelling hassles.

"It is as much a neutral venue for us as for anyone else. This is not our home ground. I don't remember which tournament we played here last time," said an angry Gambhir after the match.