PCB-Addresses

No Indian Flag at Karachi Stadium? PCB Says Only Host Nation Flags Are Hoisted

 

A controversy erupted on social media after a video surfaced from Karachi's National Stadium, showing the flags of participating teams for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The absence of the Indian flag in the footage sparked debates and criticism. However, the authenticity of the video could not be independently verified.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) addressed the controversy, stating that only the flags of teams playing in Pakistan have been raised at stadiums, while India's matches are scheduled to be held in Dubai under a hybrid model approved by the International Cricket Council (ICC).

 

PCB Explains Flag Placement Policy

 

Responding to the social media backlash, a PCB source clarified the situation, stating, As you know, India is not coming to Pakistan to play its matches during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025; the National Stadium in Karachi, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, and the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore have hoisted flags of countries that are going to play at the said venues.

The source further added, “The Indian team is going to play its matches in Dubai. Secondly, the Bangladesh team has not yet arrived in Pakistan and will be playing its first match against India in Dubai. Therefore, their flags have not been hoisted, and the other nations, who have arrived here and will be playing in Pakistan... their flags are there at the stadium.”

The official explained that different stadiums in Pakistan are set to host different teams during the Champions Trophy, and the flags at each venue are meant to welcome the teams playing there.

 

Hybrid Model and India's Matches in Dubai

 

The ICC has adopted a hybrid model for the tournament to facilitate India playing all its Champions Trophy matches in Dubai instead of travelling to Pakistan. Its introduction was made partially as a way to secure India’s participation in the event while also considering geopolitical concerns.

PCB sources said that though the India flag has been missing from stadiums in Pakistan, banners and promotional material in Karachi, Lahore and Rawalpindi showed all participating nations including India. Main Street and Highway streets are filled with banners displaying posters of all competing team captains.

 

Champions Trophy Makes a Return after Eight Years

 

The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 marks the return of the tournament after an eight-year hiatus. Defending champions Pakistan are ready to host this event for the first time since co-hosting the 1996 World Cup. Moreover, the PCB is preparing for the tournament’s success as they adhere to controversies plaguing India’s participation.