Title: India won CT 2025 fair & square: Mitchell Starc on one venue row
The 2025 ICC Champions Trophy saw India emerge victorious, and the country was abuzz with excitement as the Men in Blue lifted the coveted trophy. However, amidst the celebrations, a debate emerged regarding the tournament’s format and the perceived advantage granted to India by playing all their matches at a single venue in Dubai. Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc, who opted out of the tournament, has weighed in on the controversy, stating that India won the tournament “fair and square”.
The criticism surrounding the Champions Trophy’s format was rooted in the fact that India, after being granted a single venue for their matches, seemed to have a significant edge over their opponents. The humid and dry conditions in Dubai, along with the familiar surroundings, gave the Indian team a distinct advantage. This, coupled with their home advantage, led many to speculate that India’s dominance was, at least partially, due to the favorable conditions.
Mitchell Starc, who is known for his aggressive bowling and sharp wit, was recently asked about the controversy surrounding the Champions Trophy. In a candid interview, he expressed his thoughts on the matter, stating that India’s victory was well-deserved. “They were the better team, they’re a bloody good cricket team and have been across all formats for a long time,” he said. “India won the tournament fair and square. They outplayed everyone, and they deserved to win.”
Starc’s comments come as a surprise to many, given that Australia, his country, was not a part of the Champions Trophy this year. Despite not being involved in the tournament, Starc’s words carry significant weight, given his experience and expertise in the sport. His views also suggest that he believes India’s performance was not solely dependent on the favorable conditions in Dubai.
The Australian fast bowler also touched upon the topic of player fatigue, which has been a concern in recent years. Starc acknowledged that the modern cricketer faces numerous challenges, including the demands of international cricket, the need to adapt to different conditions, and the pressure to perform. However, he emphasized that these challenges are part and parcel of being a professional cricketer.
“It’s not an easy job, being a professional cricketer,” Starc said. “You’ve got to be able to adapt to different conditions, different opposition, and different pressures. It’s not just about turning up and playing cricket anymore. It’s a 24/7 job, and you’ve got to be able to handle it.”
Starc’s comments on India’s victory and the challenges faced by cricketers have sparked a lively debate in the cricketing community. While some have praised his honesty and sportsmanship, others have questioned his decision to opt out of the Champions Trophy. Starc’s absence from the tournament was met with surprise, given his impressive form in recent years. However, the fast bowler has been open about his desire to prioritize his health and well-being, and his decision to skip the tournament was seen as a necessary step towards maintaining his fitness and longevity in the sport.
In conclusion, Mitchell Starc’s comments have added a fresh perspective to the ongoing debate surrounding the Champions Trophy’s format and India’s dominance. His statement that India won the tournament “fair and square” has been met with both praise and criticism, but it is undeniable that his words carry significant weight in the cricketing community. As cricketers, fans, and commentators continue to dissect the tournament’s format and India’s performance, it is clear that the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy will be remembered as a thrilling and unforgettable event.
