The debate over whether Team India received an unfair advantage by playing all their matches in Dubai has been endless. While some teams may have differing opinions, the fact remains that India is the driving force behind global cricket viewership and revenue. No objections were raised before the tournament began, making the argument against India’s fixed venue baseless.

However, more than looking at the distance they have crossed should be known. To begin with, cricketers routinely travel long distances during the IPL without any complaints, so raising this as an issue now seems unnecessary. India, having played all their matches in Dubai, did not travel at all. England, part of Group B, played exclusively in Pakistan and logged 1,020 km before exiting in the first round. Meanwhile, both Afghanistan and Pakistan, moving between Karachi and Lahore, covered approximately 1,200 km each.

Bangladesh started their campaign in Dubai against India before moving to Rawalpindi for their next two games, covering a total of 1,953 km. Australia, playing in Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Dubai—including their semifinal—travelled 2,509 km in total. Pakistan, despite failing to win a match, covered 3,133 km, playing between Karachi, Dubai, and Rawalpindi. South Africa, boarding five flights, travelled 3,286 km between Karachi, Rawalpindi, Dubai, and Lahore.

New Zealand, however, travelled the most—7,048 km—playing in Karachi, Rawalpindi, Dubai, and Lahore before returning to Dubai for the final against India on 9th March. Yet, instead of complaining, they have let their performances speak. They have reached the final on the back of solid displays, proving that success isn’t about how much you travel, but how well you perform.

As they prepare to face Rohit Sharma & Co. in the title clash, New Zealand have shown resilience, while India look to capitalise on their consistency in Dubai. The Champions Trophy final promises to be a contest of skill and endurance, where excuses will have no place.