Aakash Chopra reveals that as per the latest report, India and Pakistan will play their matches in the UAE. However, referring to the 2021 T20 World Cup, he mentioned that the experience was 'horrible' and left everyone 'heartbroken'. He optimistically added that with prominent players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli playing in the ODI match, India has strongly understood the ODI template and should qualify from their group.
India and Pakistan Set to Clash in Champions Trophy in UAE Amidst T20 World Cup Woes
The highly anticipated Champions Trophy is set to return to cricket fans' delight, and the arch-rivals India and Pakistan are scheduled to face off in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). However, former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra has raised concerns about the venue, citing the "horrible" experience during the 2021 T20 World Cup.
Background
The Champions Trophy is an international One-Day International (ODI) cricket tournament organized by the International Cricket Council (ICC). It was last held in 2017, with Pakistan emerging victorious. The 2023 edition of the tournament is scheduled to take place from September 14 to October 1 in Pakistan. However, due to security concerns, the ICC decided to relocate the matches to the UAE.
Aakash Chopra's Concerns
Chopra expressed his reservations about the UAE as the host venue, recalling the disappointing experience during the 2021 T20 World Cup. He described the pitches as "dull" and the atmosphere as "flat." He emphasized that the lack of home crowd support for both India and Pakistan could significantly impact the intensity and excitement of the matches.
India's Strong ODI Form
Despite the venue concerns, Chopra expressed optimism about India's chances in the Champions Trophy. He pointed out that the team has a strong ODI setup, with experienced players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli leading the charge. He believes that India has a deep understanding of the ODI format and should qualify from their group.
FAQs
1. When and where will the Champions Trophy take place?
The Champions Trophy will take place from September 14 to October 1, 2023, in the UAE.
2. Why is the Champions Trophy being held in the UAE?
The tournament was originally scheduled to be held in Pakistan, but the ICC decided to relocate the matches to the UAE due to security concerns.
3. Which teams are participating in the Champions Trophy?
The eight participating teams include India, Pakistan, England, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Bangladesh, and a qualifier.
4. What was the result of the last Champions Trophy?
Pakistan won the 2017 Champions Trophy by defeating India in the final.
5. What are the concerns raised about the UAE as the host venue?
Some concerns have been raised about the UAE being the host venue due to the lack of home crowd support for both India and Pakistan, as well as the potential for flat pitches and a subdued atmosphere.
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