Legendary West Indies fast bowler Andy Roberts has accused the ICC of favouring India in the wake of India’s successful campaign in the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy 2025. According to the seasoned bowler, the governing body must to guarantee fair play for all teams and cease caving in to India’s demands.
After defeating New Zealand by four wickets in the final, the team captained by Rohit Sharma secured their record-tying third Champions Trophy victory. Due to the Indian government’s unwillingness to permit travel to Pakistan, the Men in Blue played all of their matches in Dubai, an unusual arrangement for the tournament, which was officially hosted by Pakistan.
India stayed at one location for the entire 19-day event, whereas other teams had to alternate between Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates. This prompted debates about whether the ICC had given the Men in Blue an unfair edge and brought up issues of fairness. Many said that the team’s performance in the competition was a result of less travel fatigue and comfortable playing conditions.
“Something must give out. India is unable to obtain everything. At times, the ICC must refuse India. Even at the T20 World Cup last year, India had an advantage because they knew ahead of time where their semi-final match would take place. India has no need to travel to the Champions Trophy. He was quoted by Mid-Day as saying, “How can a team not travel during a tournament?”
It’s not cricket, and it’s not fair: Andy Roberts
The renowned speedster also accused the ICC of being too lenient towards India, asserting that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has complete control over the organisation.
“It’s not cricket, and it’s not fair. The playing field must be level. I am aware that India is a major source of revenue, but cricket shouldn’t be a national sport. The Indian Cricket Board is what the ICC represents to me. Everything is dictated by India. Take my word for it, the ICC will find a way to appease India if they say tomorrow, “Listen, there shouldn’t be any no-balls and wides.”
Accusations of this nature have been made before. In the 2024 T20 World Cup, where India’s semi-final location was predetermined, similar arguments were made. Many claimed that these choices give the Men in Blue an advantage in the competition.
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