No Indian flag at Gaddafi Stadium! Fans see it as PCB’s dig at BCCI

Pakistan is set to host the Champions Trophy after eight years, with the tournament starting on Wednesday. As defending champions, Pakistan will welcome seven other teams, but controversy has erupted ahead of the event. Fans noticed that while flags of all participating nations were displayed at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, India’s flag was missing.

The video of the missing Indian flag went viral, fueling speculation. Many believe the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) deliberately excluded it as a response to India’s decision to play its matches in Dubai instead of Pakistan. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) cited a lack of government clearance for travel to Pakistan, leading to months of negotiations. PCB initially threatened to pull out, but a compromise was reached, allowing India to play under a hybrid model. India’s knockout stage venue remains uncertain, depending on their progress.

The tournament kicks off with Pakistan facing New Zealand in Karachi on Wednesday. India will start their campaign against Bangladesh in Dubai on Thursday, with the much-anticipated India-Pakistan clash set for the weekend. Group A features India, Pakistan, New Zealand, and Bangladesh, while Group B includes Australia, South Africa, England, and Afghanistan. The Group B opener between Afghanistan and South Africa takes place on Friday in Karachi.

With the missing flag stirring debate, the Champions Trophy begins under a cloud of political tension. Fans now await high-intensity cricket and possible off-field drama.