The opening match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 between Pakistan and New Zealand at the National Stadium in Karachi witnessed an unexpected sight, stirring both excitement and controversy. Amidst the cheering Pakistani and Black Caps supporters, an Indian flag was spotted waving in the stands, sparking a flurry of reactions online and offline.
Indian tricolor seen in Karachi after the flag controversy
The incident took place during the first innings, shortly after Pakistan won the toss and opted to bowl. As New Zealand’s Will Young began building a solid innings, cameras panned across the crowd, capturing a clear view of an individual waving the Indian tricolor. The images quickly spread across social media platforms, igniting a range of responses, from expressions of camaraderie to outright disapproval.
A spectacular air show by the Pakistan Air Force Sherdil Squadron in Karachi to mark the start of ICC #ChampionsTrophy 2025 ✈️✨#PAKvNZ pic.twitter.com/sXIRRo5zg2
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) February 19, 2025
Regardless of intent, the images have triggered a wide array of reactions. Social media platforms are flooded with comments debating the appropriateness of displaying the Indian flag at a match in Pakistan. Some users lauded the gesture as a symbol of sportsmanship and unity, while others condemned it as disrespectful to the host nation.
India’s flag at the National Stadium in Karachi. Team India not playing any matches in Pakistan, but PCB made sure their flag is included as they are part of the tournament. Well done, we have very big hearts 🇵🇰🇮🇳❤️❤️ #ChampionsTrophy2025 #PAKvNZ pic.twitter.com/eJ13aswI4w
— Faizan Naseer Faizi 🇵🇰 (@Faizan_Naser_K9) February 19, 2025
India flag high at Karachi,Pakistan 🇮🇳#PAKvNZ #ChampionsTrophy2025 pic.twitter.com/LscJUEoS28
— 18 Forever 💙❤️ (@JDCricket28) February 19, 2025
After the controversy over its absence at the venue of the Champions Trophy 2025, the Indian flag was finally displayed at the National Stadium in Karachi! 🇮🇳🏏#PakistanCricket #PAKvNZ #NZvPAK #CT25 #cricket #ChampionsTrophy2025 #BabarAzam #ShubmanGill #India pic.twitter.com/RQqU359Sxj
— Fourth Umpire (@UmpireFourth) February 19, 2025
Despite the mixed reactions, the incident underscores the unifying power of cricket, a sport deeply ingrained in the cultures of both India and Pakistan.
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PCB clarifies flag protocol for Champions Trophy 2025
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) allegedly removed the Indian flag from Karachi Stadium following security concerns raised by the Indian team.
Earlier, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had informed the ICC of its stance after the Indian government denied clearance for the team to travel to Pakistan. As a result, a hybrid model was introduced, allowing India to play their matches in Dubai.
Addressing the controversy surrounding the absence of India’s flag at the venue, the PCB issued a clarification regarding the flag protocol for the Champions Trophy.
“As per ICC guidelines, only four flags will be hoisted on CT25 match days – ICC (Event Authority), PCB (Event Host), and the two teams competing that day,” a PCB source told India Today.
This statement came in response to speculation over why India’s flag was missing earlier.
