The highly anticipated India vs Pakistan match in the 2025 World Championships of Legends, originally set for July 20 at Edgbaston Cricket Ground in Birmingham, has been officially canceled by the organisers.
In a late-night statement released on Saturday, the WCL admitted that proceeding with the match might have unintentionally offended sentiments and provoked strong emotions. Former Indian opener Shikhar Dhawan, who was scheduled to play in the match, also issued a public clarification.
Posting on both Twitter and Instagram late Saturday, Dhawan’s statement read:
“This is to officially confirm that Mr. Shikhar Dhawan will not be taking part in any matches against the Pakistan team during the upcoming WCL tournament. This decision had been conveyed earlier in our call and WhatsApp conversation dated May 11, 2025.”
Given the current geopolitical climate and heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, Dhawan and his team have made this choice after careful reflection. They have requested the league’s understanding and support regarding this decision.
Jo kadam 11 May ko liya, uspe aaj bhi waise hi khada hoon. Mera desh mere liye sab kuch hai, aur desh se badhkar kuch nahi hota.
Jai Hind! 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/gLCwEXcrnR
— Shikhar Dhawan (@SDhawan25) July 19, 2025
Harbhajan, Irfan, Yusuf Withdraw From WCL Match
Earlier, Harbhajan Singh, Irfan Pathan, and Yusuf Pathan announced their withdrawal from the upcoming World Championship of Legends (WCL) match against Pakistan, following intense public criticism. According to several reports, the decision was influenced by the strained political ties between the two countries in the wake of the Pahalgam attack.
The Indian squad participating in the WCL includes notable retired players such as Yuvraj Singh, Suresh Raina, Robin Uthappa, Ambati Rayudu, Stuart Binny, Varun Aaron, and Vinay Kumar, among others. In an official statement regarding the match cancellation, the organisers said their intent was to bring joy to fans by organising a high-profile fixture.
They cited recent sporting events between India and Pakistan, such as a volleyball match, as the basis for their initial decision to proceed with the game.
Dear all , pic.twitter.com/ViIlA3ZrLl
— World Championship Of Legends (@WclLeague) July 19, 2025
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