A social media controversy erupted over the absence of the Indian flag at Karachi’s National Stadium for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. PCB downplayed the issue.
A controversy has emerged surrounding the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled to be hosted by Pakistan starting February 19. A video circulating on social media showed the National Stadium in Karachi adorned with flags of participating nations. However, the absence of the Indian flag in the video sparked criticism and debate.
Social media users accused the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) of deliberately omitting the Indian flag due to India’s refusal to play Champions Trophy matches in Pakistan. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has cited security concerns and political tensions between the two countries as the reason for not sending its team to Pakistan.
PCB’s Response
The PCB has downplayed the controversy. According to a source within the PCB, the flags displayed are only those of countries playing their matches in Pakistan. The source clarified that India will play its matches in Dubai, due to the BCCI’s security concerns.
The source further explained that flags of teams like Bangladesh are not yet displayed because they haven’t arrived in Pakistan. Bangladesh will play its first match against India in Dubai. Flags of nations that have arrived and will be playing in Pakistan are present at the stadium.
The source also stated the PCB did not feel the need to issue an official statement, dismissing the controversy as an attempt to damage Pakistan’s image using misinformation. According to the source, different stadiums in Pakistan will host different teams during the Champions Trophy matches, and their respective flags are being raised to welcome them.
BCCI’s Stance and Hybrid Model
The BCCI’s refusal to play in Pakistan led the International Cricket Council (ICC) to implement a hybrid model for the Champions Trophy. Under this model, India will play all its matches in Dubai.
Despite the tensions, the PCB source claimed that banners featuring captains of all participating nations, including India, are displayed on main streets and highways in cities hosting the Champions Trophy matches, such as Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi. This, according to the source, demonstrates that the PCB does not intend to allow political rivalries to negatively impact the major ICC event.
Champions Trophy Returns
The Champions Trophy is making a comeback after eight years. Pakistan is the defending champion. The nation is eager for a successful event as it hosts an ICC tournament for the first time since co-hosting the 1996 World Cup.
Background on ICC Champions Trophy
The ICC Champions Trophy, previously known as the ICC KnockOut Tournament, is a One Day International (ODI) cricket tournament organized by the International Cricket Council (ICC). It is typically held every two to four years, featuring the top cricket-playing nations.
The tournament format usually involves a round-robin stage followed by semi-finals and a final. It is considered the second most important ODI tournament after the Cricket World Cup. The Champions Trophy provides an opportunity for teams to test their skills in a competitive environment and is often seen as a precursor to the World Cup, allowing teams to fine-tune their strategies and assess their strengths and weaknesses.
Previous editions of the Champions Trophy have been held in various countries, showcasing the global appeal of cricket and the ICC’s commitment to promoting the sport worldwide.
Sources: https://sports.ndtv.com/icc-champions-trophy-2025/pakistan-cricket-board-breaks-silence-on-no-indian-flag-at-karachi-stadium-ahead-of-champions-trophy-7730574
https://indianexpress.com/article/sports/cricket/champions-trophy-controversy-india-flag-missing-national-stadium-karachi-9841847/
https://www.hindustantimes.com/cricket/pcb-breaks-silence-on-missing-indian-flag-in-karachi-says-icc-responsible-for-no-tri-colour-ahead-of-champions-trophy-101739797712386.html