AHMEDABAD: The India national cricket team has reportedly changed its hotel in Ahmedabad ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup final, with Indian media linking the move to superstition following past defeats.
According to Indian media reports, the team chose not to stay at the same hotel where it had lodged during the final of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, where India suffered a defeat against the Australia national cricket team.
Reports suggest that the decision may have been influenced by the team’s desire to avoid repeating the circumstances associated with that loss. However, no official statement has been issued regarding the change of accommodation.
Indian media also reported that a member of the team’s support staff regularly offers prayers at every venue for the team’s success, while the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is providing all possible facilities to support the squad.
Earlier, ahead of the semi-final in Mumbai, India reportedly delayed a training session by about 45 minutes to avoid the effects of a lunar eclipse.
Meanwhile, the final in Ahmedabad is expected to be played on a red-soil pitch. India had earlier lost to the South Africa national cricket team on a black-soil pitch at the same venue two weeks ago. The stadium offers a variety of pitches, including red soil, black soil, and mixed surfaces.
Indian media further reported that India may also consider using the visiting team’s dressing room instead of the home dressing room at the venue in an apparent attempt to change their fortunes.
The T20 World Cup final between India and the New Zealand national cricket team is scheduled to take place in Ahmedabad on Sunday.