Champions Trophy 2025: Indian flag flies excessive at Karachi’s Nationwide Stadium throughout PAK vs NZ match amid controversy, images go viral
The opening match of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 between Pakistan and New Zealand on the Nationwide Stadium in Karachi witnessed an surprising sight, stirring each pleasure and controversy. Amidst the cheering Pakistani and Black Caps supporters, an Indian flag was noticed waving within the stands, sparking a flurry of reactions on-line and offline.
Indian tricolor seen in Karachi after the flag controversy
The incident occurred throughout the first innings, shortly after Pakistan received the toss and opted to bowl. As New Zealand’s Will Younger started constructing a strong innings, cameras panned throughout the gang, capturing a transparent view of a person waving the Indian tricolor. The pictures rapidly unfold throughout social media platforms, igniting a spread of responses, from expressions of camaraderie to outright disapproval.
A spectacular air present by the Pakistan Air Drive Sherdil Squadron in Karachi to mark the beginning of ICC #ChampionsTrophy 2025 ✈️✨#PAKvNZ pic.twitter.com/sXIRRo5zg2
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) February 19, 2025
No matter intent, the photographs have triggered a wide selection of reactions. Social media platforms are flooded with feedback debating the appropriateness of displaying the Indian flag at a match in Pakistan. Some customers lauded the gesture as an emblem of sportsmanship and unity, whereas others condemned it as disrespectful to the host nation.
India’s flag on the Nationwide Stadium in Karachi. Workforce India not taking part in any matches in Pakistan, however PCB made certain their flag is included as they’re a part of the match. Properly performed, we have now very large hearts 🇵🇰🇮🇳❤️❤️ #ChampionsTrophy2025 #PAKvNZ pic.twitter.com/eJ13aswI4w
— Faizan Naseer Faizi 🇵🇰 (@Faizan_Naser_K9) February 19, 2025
India flag excessive at Karachi,Pakistan 🇮🇳#PAKvNZ #ChampionsTrophy2025 pic.twitter.com/LscJUEoS28
— 18 Without end 💙❤️ (@JDCricket28) February 19, 2025
After the controversy over its absence on the venue of the Champions Trophy 2025, the Indian flag was lastly displayed on the Nationwide Stadium in Karachi! 🇮🇳🏏#PakistanCricket #PAKvNZ #NZvPAK #CT25 #cricket #ChampionsTrophy2025 #BabarAzam #ShubmanGill #India pic.twitter.com/RQqU359Sxj
— Fourth Umpire (@UmpireFourth) February 19, 2025
Regardless of the combined reactions, the incident underscores the unifying energy of cricket, a sport deeply ingrained within the cultures of each India and Pakistan.
Additionally WATCH: Naseem Shah’s pumped up celebration after dismissing Kane Williamson throughout PAK vs NZ conflict in Champions Trophy 2025
PCB clarifies flag protocol for Champions Trophy 2025
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) allegedly eliminated the Indian flag from Karachi Stadium following safety issues raised by the Indian crew.
Earlier, the Board of Management for Cricket in India (BCCI) had knowledgeable the ICC of its stance after the Indian authorities denied clearance for the crew to journey to Pakistan. Because of this, a hybrid mannequin was launched, permitting India to play their matches in Dubai.
Addressing the controversy surrounding the absence of India’s flag on the venue, the PCB issued a clarification relating to the flag protocol for the Champions Trophy.
“As per ICC tips, solely 4 flags shall be hoisted on CT25 match days – ICC (Occasion Authority), PCB (Occasion Host), and the 2 groups competing that day,” a PCB supply informed India Immediately.
This assertion got here in response to hypothesis over why India’s flag was lacking earlier.
