The rules have been bent again. By giving the Indian national flag a place in the Karachi stadium before the beginning of Champions Trophy 2025, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has shown a greater degree of maturity and averted yet another challenge to its credibility and integrity.

However, considering that cricket runs more on emotions and less on regulations, especially when it comes to Pakistan-India bouts, the reaction from across the border is understandable and somewhat predictable. The flag controversy swiftly spilled onto social media, where fans from both sides debated the move. While some see it as a necessary correction, others view it as unnecessary appeasement. Many expert commentators, including former cricketers, have called the initial refusal to hoist the flag a reaction to India’s decision to play in Dubai.

Perhaps it was intended, much like the jersey controversy, to ensure that fans are emotionally invested even before the first ball is bowled as the two teams face each other this Sunday

Nevertheless, not accommodating the flags of ‘absent’ teams is being seen as more of an unnecessary compulsion. It got people talking and triggered raw emotions, something for which the game is famous in the Subcontinent. It also appears to be a strategic move to make a statement rather than just a blunder. A narrative was built, mind games played, and controversies sparked – all adding to the spectacle. Perhaps it was intended, much like the jersey controversy, to ensure that fans are emotionally invested even before the first ball is bowled as the two teams face each other this Sunday.

Moreover, an explanation regarding the flag controversy should have come directly from the International Cricket Council (ICC), under whose directives the flags of only those nations playing at the venue were hoisted.

The Indian cricket team’s refusal to visit Pakistan – for reasons beyond all reason – has disappointed fans in the host nation. Yet, their symbolic presence has been acknowledged. Cricket has long been a bridge between the two countries and should remain so. Off-field drama and passion are integral to the game, as they help draw maximum viewership. The in-game rivalry, however, must persist for the good of cricket, sans the ruffling of feathers.