The Champions Trophy 2025 kicked off on February 19 at the National Stadium in Karachi with full pomp and show. The clash between Pakistan and New Zealand marked the curtain-raiser for the showpiece event on Wednesday. Meanwhile, all eyes will be on India's high-voltage clash against their arch-rivals Pakistan, which will be played on February 23.
But right ahead of the highly-anticipated clash, a flag controversy erupted in Karachi stadium couple of days ago. Apparently India flag was missing during the Champions Trophy event at the Karachi stadium which sparked a debate amongst fans on social media.
Indian Tricolour spotted flying high at Karachi stadium after flag controversy amidst Champions Trophy
However, after all the drama, the Indian national flag was visible among the flags of participating nations, positioned between those of Bangladesh and New Zealand during the Pakistan versus New Zealand match. This comes after earlier speculation that the Indian flag might be absent due to India playing their matches in Dubai rather than Pakistan.
It's customary for international sporting events to display the flags of all competing teams. The initial absence of the Indian flag had led to speculation that it was related to India's decision to play their games at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
Following the Indian flag controversy, PCB had to come up with a clarification where they clearly said it has nothing to do with India not playing in Pakistan.
“The ICC has advised that only four (4) flags will be hoisted on CT25 match days - ICC (Event Authority), PCB (Event Host) and the two sides competing on that day,” a PCB source earlier told Sports Tak.
India's absence from Pakistan for cricket matches stretches back to the 2008 Asia Cup. Bilateral series between the two nations have been nonexistent for over a decade, and they haven't faced each other in the World Test Championship. Their encounters are now limited to major international tournaments like the Asia Cup, T20 World Cup, and ODI World Cup.
Prior to the Champions Trophy, India's refusal to travel to Pakistan led the PCB to adopt a hybrid model for the tournament.
Meanwhile, India will commence their Champions Trophy 2025 campaign against Bangladesh on February 20. They will then meet Pakistan on February 23 and will finally play their last league-stage match against New Zealand on March 2.
