Ahead of ICC Champions Trophy, No Indian flag at Lahore Stadium as PCB removes tri-color flag
The conflict between the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has escalated, with Pakistan, the host of the ICC Champions Trophy, omitting the Indian flag from the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. Out of the eight participating teams, only seven flags were hoisted, noticeably excluding the Indian tricolor.
This action follows a prolonged standoff between the BCCI and the PCB, rooted in the Indian government’s refusal to grant permission for the Indian cricket team to travel to Pakistan. Consequently, an agreement was reached for India to play their matches at a neutral venue in Dubai.
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The missing flag has sparked speculation among fans, with many suggesting it is a response to India’s refusal to travel to Pakistan. The absence of the Indian flag and the decision to hold India-Pakistan matches in Dubai highlight the ongoing tensions and political factors impacting the tournament.
The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 marks Pakistan’s first time hosting an International Cricket Council (ICC) event in 29 years. To ensure the tournament proceeds smoothly, venues include Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi in Pakistan, with Dubai as a neutral venue. The highly anticipated India vs. Pakistan match has been rescheduled to February 23 in Dubai.