India's decision to play all of their matches in the 2025 Champions Trophy in Dubai, despite Pakistan being the host nation, has sparked significant controversy. The move, part of the new "hybrid model" for ICC tournaments, has drawn mixed reactions from both current and former players, with many questioning the fairness of such a decision.

There have been arguments that India's decision to play in Dubai rather than Pakistan gives them an undue advantage.

Amid the growing criticism, Indian veteran Cheteshwar Pujara has weighed in, dismissing the discussion as hollow. Pujara believes that the debate is rooted in misperceptions as no such discussion was seen when it all was finalised. 

"The schedule was out there before the Champions Trophy began, the reason for Indian team to not travel to Pakistan was the security. ICC and BCCI worked together to try and find a neutral venue. India have played against Pakistan at a neutral venue, and UAE is closer to Pakistan," Pujara told RevSportz.

"I don't think it's an unfair advantage. If India had lost, no one would've said they played in Dubai, that's why they lost. I don't think it's a home ground for India. The advantage for India is the kind of talent they have, the number of all-rounders they have," said Pujara.

Pujara also praised India’s decision to go with five spinners in the Champions Trophy. 

“We have Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel, we have Kuldeep and Varun. We have four quality spinners. If we look at other teams, they have two, that's why they are struggling in UAE as well as Pakistan. I think we have the best balance, we have better all-rounders. We have Hardik, who is another all-rounder. Then, you have the top-order, and the batting. So, it's the balance of the Indian team which has made the side successful, rather than the venue,” Pujara said. 

Meanwhile, India have reached the final and will face New Zealand on Sunday in Dubai.