WCL Cancels India-Pakistan Legends Match After Players Withdraw
NEWS
Organisers Apologise, Say Aim Was to Spread “Happy Memories”
Main News:
The World Championship of Legends (WCL) cricket match between former players of India and Pakistan, which was scheduled for July 20, 2025, in Birmingham, has been cancelled. The cancellation happened because several famous Indian cricket players—including Shikhar Dhawan, Harbhajan Singh, Yusuf Pathan, and Suresh Raina—refused to play.
The Indian players decided to withdraw because of the Pahalgam terror attack in April. They said it would not be right to participate in the match given the current tensions between India and Pakistan.
Event Timeline:
First, some Indian players made it clear that they would not play to show respect and solidarity after the Pahalgam terror attack, which raised political tensions. The WCL organisers then posted on social media (on X, formerly known as Twitter) saying their goal was to create “happy memories” by having this friendly cricket match, inspired by recent India-Pakistan matches in sports like hockey and volleyball.
However, after the players’ withdrawal and receiving strong public reactions, the organisers apologised and explained that they did not mean to hurt anyone’s feelings or cause discomfort to the Indian cricket legends. Some sponsors also withdrew support for the match following the controversy.
Key Details About the Teams:
The Indian team included well-known players like Shikhar Dhawan, Harbhajan Singh, Yuvraj Singh (team captain), Yusuf Pathan, Irfan Pathan, Suresh Raina, Robin Uthappa, and Varun Aaron. The Pakistan team was to be led by Shahid Afridi and also included Younis Khan, Sohail Tanvir, Wahab Riaz, and Kamran Akmal.
Official Statements:
The WCL organisers apologised publicly, saying they only wanted to create happy moments for fans and never wanted to hurt anyone’s feelings. Shikhar Dhawan also released a statement confirming that, due to the ongoing tensions and recent violent events, he and his team had decided not to play against Pakistan. Other Indian cricket stars like Harbhajan Singh and Yusuf Pathan, who are also Members of Parliament, reportedly made the same decision.
Wider Context and Reactions:
This cancellation happened in a sensitive time, as India and Pakistan do not play regular bilateral cricket series anymore due to political tensions. Their matches are usually only in big tournaments like the World Cup. The Indian government still allowed Pakistani teams to come to India for Olympic sports events (like hockey and shooting) to avoid breaking international rules.
Many people on social media in India criticized the Indian players for even considering playing against the Pakistan team. Ultimately, the organisers decided it was best to cancel the match to respect everyone’s feelings and avoid more controversy.
In summary:
The India vs Pakistan legends cricket match at the 2025 WCL was cancelled because Indian players, affected by recent violence and political tensions, refused to play. The organisers apologised and explained they only wanted to bring fans happy memories, not stir up negative feelings.