India Legends vs Pakistan in WCL Called Off After Star Players Pull Out
“India legends vs Pakistan match in the World Championship of Legends was cancelled after key players including Shikhar Dhawan, Harbhajan Singh, and Irfan Pathan withdrew, citing geopolitical tensions over the Pahalgam attack.”
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A scheduled veterans’ cricket face-off between India and Pakistan in the World Championship of Legends (WCL), set in Birmingham on July 20, 2025, was officially cancelled. The decision followed a wave of high-profile withdrawals, including former India opener Shikhar Dhawan, who cited geopolitical tensions and the tragic Pahalgam terror attack earlier this year as his reason
Dhawan confirmed he had informed WCL officials on May 11 that he would not take part in any match featuring Pakistan due to the prevailing Indo–Pak strain. He reiterated his stance publicly on July 19, stating, “The decision I took on May 11, I still stand by it... Nothing is greater than my country”.
Following Dhawan’s lead, other veterans like Harbhajan Singh, Irfan Pathan and Yusuf Pathan opted out as well, prompting the WCL committee to cancel the fixture. The organisers issued a statement on their X (Twitter) account, expressing regret over any upset caused and saying the intent was to evoke positive memories—but that they clearly “hurt feelings” instead.
The match was supposed to take place at Edgbaston Stadium. However, the venue's administrators confirmed via social media that gates would remain closed, and all ticket holders would receive refunds.
With the cancellation confirmed, Pakistan’s side has reportedly been awarded the two points by default, and WCL organisers say they are exploring ways to avoid staging any India‑Pakistan clashes in the upcoming knockout phase.
