Karachi (National Times): The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has responded to a growing controversy over the apparent absence of the Indian flag at Karachi’s National Stadium ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. A viral video showing flags of participating nations—except India—set off a wave of speculation, with critics accusing Pakistan of sidelining its cricketing rival amid ongoing political tensions.
However, the PCB has rejected these claims, asserting that only the flags of teams scheduled to play in Pakistan have been displayed at venues in Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi.
“India is not playing in Pakistan. The flags at these stadiums represent only the teams set to compete there,” a PCB source clarified. The source further pointed out that India’s matches, along with some of Bangladesh’s, will be held in Dubai under the ICC’s hybrid model, which was introduced due to India’s security concerns.
Despite the PCB’s explanation, the controversy continues to trend on social media, with many fans questioning whether the decision was purely logistical or carried a political undertone. Some users have called it an unnecessary provocation, while others argue that the Indian flag should be included regardless of the match venues.
Dismissing the outrage as “social media-driven misinformation,” the PCB emphasized that banners featuring captains of all participating teams, including India, have been placed across major Pakistani cities. “This controversy is baseless and seems to be aimed at tarnishing Pakistan’s image as a host,” the PCB source said.
With Pakistan hosting its first ICC event since co-hosting the 1996 World Cup, the Champions Trophy is a crucial moment for the country. As the tournament approaches, the PCB remains focused on delivering a successful competition while brushing aside the latest round of off-field drama.
