Champions Trophy: PCB Explains Absence of Indian Flag at Stadiums
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Synopsis
The PCB addressed the absence of the Indian flag at stadiums amid social media controversy, clarifying that only flags of participating nations in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, hosted by Pakistan, are displayed.
Key Takeaways
- Indian flag not displayed at stadiums.
- PCB claims only flags of participating nations are raised.
- India's matches will be held in Dubai.
- PCB downplays controversy as misinformation.
- Champions Trophy returns after eight years.
Karachi, Feb 17 (NationPress) A social media uproar was sparked after a clip from Karachi's National Stadium emerged, displaying the flags of nations participating in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which is set to take place in Pakistan starting February 19.
The footage indicated that the Indian flag was allegedly absent from the stadium, igniting debate and criticism aimed at the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for expressing discontent over India's decision not to play Champions Trophy matches within the country.
While social media is abuzz with fans condemning Pakistan’s decision to not display the Indian flag, the PCB has minimized the uproar, asserting that only the flags of nations actively participating in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 are displayed at the stadiums.
“As you are aware, India will not be visiting Pakistan for its matches during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025; the National Stadium in Karachi, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, and Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore have raised flags of the countries competing at these venues,” a PCB source informed IANS.
When questioned about the absence of flags for India, Bangladesh, and other participating nations at the Karachi and Lahore stadiums, the source clarified, “The Indian team will be playing its matches in Dubai. Additionally, the Bangladesh team has not yet reached Pakistan and will play its inaugural match against India in Dubai. Hence, their flags have not been displayed, while the flags of the other nations that have arrived here and will be playing in Pakistan are present at the stadium.”
The source further explained that the PCB sees no need to issue an official statement regarding the situation, as it pertains to a social media video with a misleading agenda.
“I don’t believe the PCB needs to release an official statement on this matter. It’s evident that the controversy is fabricated and aims to tarnish the image of host Pakistan through misinformation,” the source stated.
“Various stadiums across Pakistan will host different teams during the Champions Trophy matches. The flags are being raised to welcome these teams,” it added.
It is important to highlight that the BCCI opted not to participate in Pakistan due to security issues and political frictions between the two nations, leading the ICC to adopt a hybrid model, where India will play all its Champions Trophy matches in Dubai.
The source also mentioned that cities in Pakistan, including Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi, where the Champions Trophy matches will occur, have displayed banners on major streets and highways featuring captains of all participating nations, including India, emphasizing that the PCB aims to ensure its political rivalry does not overshadow this significant ICC event in the country.
The Champions Trophy is making a comeback after an eight-year absence. Pakistan holds the title of defending champion and is eager for the event's success, as it is hosting the ICC tournament for the first time since co-hosting the 1996 World Cup.
