PCB Clarifies Absence of Indian Flag at National Stadium Ahead of ICC Champions Trophy 2025
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has provided clarification regarding the absence of the Indian flag at the National Stadium in Karachi, just days before the start of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
On Sunday, it was noticed that all participating countries’ flags, except for India, were being flown at the National Stadium. This led to speculation on social media that the PCB was taking a retaliatory stance against India. Due to government restrictions, India is set to play all its matches for the Champions Trophy in Dubai.
However, the PCB confirmed that this decision was not theirs but was directed by the International Cricket Council (ICC). A PCB spokesperson stated that the ICC had advised that only four flags be flown on the match days of the Champions Trophy 2025—those of the ICC (event authority), PCB (event host), and the two competing teams on that day.
The Champions Trophy is set to begin on Wednesday, with Pakistan, the host, facing New Zealand in Karachi. India, Pakistan, New Zealand, and Bangladesh are placed in Group A, with Bangladesh and India set to play against each other in Dubai on Thursday.
The highly anticipated match between Pakistan and India is scheduled for Sunday, February 23, at the Dubai International Stadium.
**”Group of Death”**
Group B has been dubbed the “Group of Death,” consisting of England, Australia, South Africa, and Afghanistan. The intense rivalry between England and Australia will unfold in Lahore on Saturday, February 22.
The semifinals will take place on March 4 and 5, with the final scheduled for March 9.
PCB Chairman, Najam Sethi, expressed satisfaction with the agreement allowing Pakistan to retain hosting rights while India plays its matches in Dubai. He emphasized that the agreement is based on the principles of equality and respect, reflecting a spirit of cooperation. He also acknowledged the role of ICC members in reaching this compromise.
