Videos surfaced on social media showing that India’s flag was not flown in three Pakistani stadiums, sparking widespread criticism. The news agency IANS sought an explanation from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) regarding the absence of Rohit Sharma’s team’s flag on Pakistani soil.
A PCB official provided a clear response to the media outlet, stating:
“India is not coming to play in Pakistan. Therefore, India’s flag was not displayed at Karachi National Stadium, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, or Gaddafi Stadium.”
As the host nation, PCB traditionally displays the flags of all participating countries. However, India’s flag was notably absent. Despite Pakistan hosting the tournament, India refused to travel to Pakistan, citing security concerns. Rohit Sharma will also be absent from the scheduled Captains’ Day event. Some speculated that this might be a form of retaliation from PCB for India’s decision not to participate in matches on Pakistani soil.
In response, PCB clarified the situation. According to several Pakistani media outlets, the absence of India’s flag was not a deliberate move by PCB but rather a decision guided by ICC protocols.
A PCB spokesperson explained:
“The ICC directed that during the 2025 Champions Trophy, only four flags would be hoisted: those of the ICC, PCB, and the two teams playing on that day. The matter is straightforward.”
In this edition of the Champions Trophy, India will play all their matches in Dubai. Their opening match against Bangladesh is scheduled for February 20, which will also serve as the tournament opener. The highly anticipated India-Pakistan clash is set for February 23. Should India reach the semifinals or the final, those matches will also be held in Dubai. However, if India fails to qualify, the final will be played at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium.
