NEW DELHI: Ahead of the start of the ICC Champions Trophy, a fresh controversy erupted after a video surfaced on social media showing the apparent absence of the Indian flag at the National Stadium in Karachi.
The footage, which quickly gained traction online, depicted the flags of other participating nations displayed prominently at the venue, while India’s tricolour was seemingly missing. This development left fans stunned and triggered widespread debate on social media. However, the authenticity of the video could not be independently verified.
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While the exact reason behind the Indian flag’s absence remains unknown, speculation suggests that it could be linked to the fact that the Indian team is not playing any of its matches in Pakistan. Due to political tensions and security concerns, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) opted for a hybrid model, ensuring that India would play all its matches in Dubai.
The National Stadium in Karachi is set to host matches for teams such as New Zealand, South Africa, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and England.
Earlier, similar claims were made about the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, where an event was held ahead of the tournament. According to reports, the flags of seven competing nations were displayed, with India being the only exception. The video of this incident also went viral.
Pakistan, the defending champions, won the last edition of the Champions Trophy in 2017 and are hosting the tournament for the first time. The event will mark the return of the ICC Champions Trophy after an eight-year hiatus. As part of the hybrid model agreement, India will play all their group stage matches in Dubai. If they progress, their knockout-stage matches, including the final, will also be held in Dubai.
The tournament is set to commence on February 19, with hosts Pakistan facing New Zealand in Karachi. Meanwhile, India’s much-anticipated clash with arch-rivals Pakistan is scheduled for the weekend, making it one of the most awaited encounters of the tournament.
