The Champions Trophy’s Indian Flag Controversy
Many speculated that the PCB had taken down the Indian flag in revenge for India’s decision not to send a team to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy, which caused controversy. A video of the missing flag went viral, sparking condemnation from a variety of sources, including BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla, and the problem gained momentum.
Shukla voiced his belief that the flags of all participating countries ought to be flown at the event. “The Indian flag ought to have been raised if it wasn’t already. He told Livemint in Delhi on Tuesday that the flags of all the participating countries ought to have been present.
PCB’s explanation of the flag display
Citing ICC standards, the PCB updated its stance in reaction to the controversy. The board said that during Champions Trophy matches, the ICC had instructed them to only fly the flags of the PCB, the ICC, and the two teams participating that day. The PCB representative reaffirmed that the event planners had mandated this.
The Indian flag was seen at the National Stadium in Karachi on Tuesday, prior of the first match between Pakistan and New Zealand, despite the earlier uncertainty.
Pakistan Sees a Successful Start
Pakistan, meanwhile, would be hoping for a successful campaign debut. They will be cautious of the threat posed by the Kiwis because they lost both of their tri-series matches to New Zealand. The second match between Pakistan and India, which takes place at the Dubai International Stadium on February 23, won’t be simple either. Pakistan will almost be eliminated from the semifinals if they lose both games.
