There’s been quite a buzz surrounding the absence of the Indian flag at Karachi’s National Bank Stadium ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Rumors and speculations started flying after a video surfaced, showing flags of all participating teams being hoisted at the venue—except for India’s.
Naturally, people began to wonder: was this a deliberate snub by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) in response to India’s decision to play their Champions Trophy matches in the UAE instead of Pakistan?
The Clarification
Well, the PCB has now stepped in to put those rumors to rest. According to official reports, it turns out the omission of the Indian flag was not intentional at all. Instead, it’s a directive from the International Cricket Council (ICC).
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A PCB spokesperson explained the situation, saying, “The ICC has advised that only four flags will be hoisted on Champions Trophy 2025 match days: ICC, PCB, and the two competing teams.” That’s it—no hidden agendas or political motives behind the decision.
Since India won’t be playing any of their matches in Pakistan, their flag won’t be displayed at any of the three venues—Karachi, Lahore, or Rawalpindi. It’s as simple as that.
The Big Picture
While this explanation clears up the confusion, the larger picture is still exciting. The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is just days away from kicking off, and the tournament is set to be an epic spectacle.
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Pakistan, the host and defending champions, will take on New Zealand in the opening match on February 19 at Karachi’s National Bank Stadium.
This year’s tournament will feature 15 matches over 19 days, spread across Pakistan and Dubai. In Pakistan, Karachi, Rawalpindi, and Lahore will host the games, with Lahore also playing home to the second semi-final and the grand final on March 9.
But here’s the twist—if India qualifies for the final, the game will be moved to Dubai.
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