Former England cricketers Nasser Hussain and Michael Atherton have pointed out that India enjoys a key advantage in the ongoing Champions Trophy by playing all their matches at a single venue in Dubai. While other teams shuttle between Pakistan and Dubai, India remains stationed in one location, giving them a level of consistency that could prove crucial in the tournament.

India’s fixed schedule is a result of the hybrid model adopted for the tournament after they declined to travel to Pakistan, which was initially designated as the sole host. In response, the International Cricket Council (ICC) modified the format, ensuring that all of India's fixtures take place in Dubai. Speaking to Sky Sports, Hussain and Atherton highlighted how this scheduling decision spares India from the exhaustion and challenges of adjusting to different venues, a hurdle that other teams must navigate.

"The advantage India has by playing exclusively in Dubai is significant, even if difficult to measure precisely. Unlike others, they don’t have to deal with travel between venues or countries," Atherton remarked.

Hussain echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the unique benefit India enjoys. "It’s an advantage, no doubt. A tweet I saw put it well: Pakistan - host nation, India - home advantage. That sums it up. India remains in one hotel, one dressing room, familiar with the same pitch. Their selections were likely made with Dubai's conditions in mind, giving them an edge,” he explained.

This setup played a role even in India’s marquee clash against Pakistan on February 23. Pakistan, despite co-hosting, had to fly to Dubai for the fixture, which they lost by six wickets. Both former England captains pointed out that India’s ability to build their strategy around the consistent conditions in Dubai has given them stability, shielding them from the fatigue and unpredictability that come with constant travel.

India has already secured a spot in the semi-finals following convincing victories over Bangladesh and Pakistan. Their final group-stage match against New Zealand on March 2 will determine their position in the knockout phase. However, their smooth campaign so far has reinforced claims that playing at a single venue has worked to their advantage.