ICC Champions Trophy: India’s Tricolor Finally Hoisted in Karachi

Karachi's National Stadium has finally hoisted the Indian tricolor after controversy erupted over its absence. The issue arose when national flags of all participating countries in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy were displayed at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, but India's flag was missing. This omission sparked widespread criticism, with many alleging that Pakistan deliberately ignored the Indian flag in violation of ICC regulations.

According to ICC rules, all participating nations’ flags must be displayed at the tournament venues. While the Indian team followed the regulations by featuring "Pakistan" on its jerseys, as mandated, Pakistan's failure to adhere to flag display norms became a contentious issue. The controversy gained traction on social media, prompting backlash against Pakistan. Following the uproar, Pakistan eventually relented and raised the Indian flag at the stadium.

Sources indicate that ICC directives compelled Pakistan to resolve the matter. A Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) official clarified that on match days, only four flags would be hoisted at the stadium—those of ICC, PCB, and the two competing teams. However, the inclusion of the Indian flag at the host venue was welcomed by BCCI Vice President Rajeev Shukla, who expressed his satisfaction and reiterated that all participating nations' flags should be displayed at tournament venues.

Meanwhile, the ICC Champions Trophy is set to commence today, with defending champions Pakistan facing New Zealand in the opening match. The game is scheduled to begin at 2:30 PM at Karachi's National Stadium.