Missing Indian Flag Sparks Controversy Before ICC Champions Trophy in Pakistan
Missing Indian Flag Sparks Controversy Before ICC Champions Trophy in Pakistan
The tournament will kick off on February 19
A new controversy has emerged just before the ICC Champions Trophy begins, following the release of a video on social media that appears to show the Indian flag missing from the National Stadium in Karachi. The video, which rapidly circulated online, showcased the flags of other competing nations prominently displayed at the venue, while India’s tricolor was noticeably absent. This situation has shocked fans and sparked extensive discussions across social media platforms. However, the video’s authenticity remains unverified.
No Indian flag in Karachi: As only the Indian team faced security issues in Pakistan and refused to play Champions Trophy matches in Pakistan, the PCB removed the Indian flag from the Karachi stadium while keeping the flags of the other guest playing nations. pic.twitter.com/rjM9LcWQXs
— Arsalan (@Arslan1245) February 16, 2025
The tournament will kick off on February 19, featuring the host nation Pakistan going up against New Zealand in Karachi. Additionally, the highly anticipated match between India and their long-time rivals Pakistan is lined up for the weekend, marking it as one of the most eagerly awaited events of the tournament.
The precise reason for the Indian flag’s absence is unclear, but it is believed to be related to the Indian team’s decision not to play any matches in Pakistan. Given the ongoing political tensions and security issues, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) chose a hybrid model, allowing India to play all its matches in Dubai. Should they advance, their knockout-stage games, including the final, will also take place in Dubai.
Previously, there were comparable assertions regarding the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, which hosted an event prior to the tournament. Reports indicate that the flags of seven participating nations were showcased, with India being the sole exception. A video capturing this incident also gained significant attention online.
Here’s a post on X regarding this.
No Indian Flag at Gaddafi Stadium 👌😎#GaddafiStadium #PakistanCricket pic.twitter.com/bYiFn8bCLX
— Ahtasham Riaz (@ahtashamriaz22) February 8, 2025
Pakistan, the reigning champions, claimed victory in the Champions Trophy held in 2017 and is set to host the tournament for the first time.
There will be 15 matches held in Pakistan and Dubai, as India declined to visit their neighboring country and opted to play in the neutral venue of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) instead.
