While the details for all three stadiums in Pakistan are being documented very well, there are massive uncertainties over the Dubai International Cricket Ground. Will it offer massive help to spinners or will the pacers rule the roost like they did at the recent ILT20 2025? Well, even the Indian captain doesn’t have enough idea about the Dubai surface. During the pre-match press conference on February 19, Rohit Sharma claimed that he will assess the Dubai surface on “instincts.”
Rohit Sharma on Dubai surface
When asked about the pitch, Rohit Sharma didn’t boast enough confidence in his transparency of knowing the Dubai pitch yet. He expresses to rely on past experiences and instincts. Earlier today, an image surfaced of the Dubai pitch on social media, leaving fans amused about what could be the nature of the pitch.
“I think it’s about assessing the pitch as quickly as possible. We’ve played a lot of cricket here (Dubai) in the past. We have to adapt as quickly as possible and let your instincts take over based on the situation. I’m not very sure about the dew. It’s quite unpredictable for all of us. We can’t really think too much about that. If there are overcast conditions, we have the arsenal to combat that.”
How will the Dubai pitch play at ICC Champions Trophy?
Dubai Pitch Stats
| Category | Matches | Overs | Wickets | Bowl Average | Bowling SR | Economy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pacers | 14 | 333 | 109 | 25.20 | 18.30 | 8.24 |
| Spinners | 14 | 196.5 | 51 | 28.58 | 23.10 | 7.40 |
| Innings | Matches | Overs | Wickets | Bowl Average | Bowling SR | Economy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st Innings | 14 | 169 | 63 | 22.41 | 16.00 | 8.35 |
| 2nd Innings | 14 | 164 | 46 | 29.02 | 21.30 | 8.14 |
Considering the stats above from the ILT20, we could expect something different. Pacers could rule the roost. But India have taken as many as five spin options, not without any reason. Most of the ILT20 matches were played at night. However, a day-night ODI game would allow spinners to come into play, especially in the afternoon. It wouldn’t come as a surprise if the Dubai surface acts somewhat like how the Narendra Modi Stadium plays—spin in the afternoon, seam for pacers under lights despite being helpful for batting. India will start their ICC Champions Trophy 2025 campaign against Bangladesh on Feb 20. Unlike other teams, India will play all their matches in Dubai.
Editor's Pick
Cricket
Jasprit Bumrah yet to get fitness clearance, likely out for another two weeks
Top Stories
