🧭 The Match That Was Called Off
The much-awaited Pakistan vs India match in the World Championship of Legends (WCL) 2025 was cancelled just days before kickoff. It was supposed to be held on July 20 at Edgbaston, Birmingham.
🇮🇳 Why Indian Players Withdrew
Many Indian cricket legends decided to step away from the match, and their reasons were strong.
🔹 Shikhar Dhawan Took the First Stand
Shikhar Dhawan was the first to confirm he wouldn’t participate. He cited the Pahalgam terror attack (April 2025) as the reason. He said:
“I had already made it clear in May that I won’t play this match. Nothing is bigger than the nation.”
🔹 Other Indian Legends Followed
After Dhawan, several other former players also pulled out:
- Harbhajan Singh
- Suresh Raina
- Irfan Pathan
- Yusuf Pathan
This mass withdrawal left the Indian team shorthanded, making the match impossible.
📣 Organisers Issued a Public Apology
WCL organisers took to X (formerly Twitter) to address the situation.
🔹 They Aimed for Unity, Not Controversy
They said the match was meant to be “a celebration of cricket and sportsmanship.” But they admitted the situation may have unintentionally caused emotional discomfort, especially in light of recent events.
🔹 They Cancelled the Match Out of Respect
In their statement, the WCL confirmed that the match would be called off, and they apologized for any hurt caused to Indian players or fans.
💼 Sponsors Pulled Out Too
It wasn’t just the players who stepped back — a key sponsor did too.
🔹 EaseMyTrip Withdraws Its Support
EaseMyTrip, a travel tech company and one of the main WCL sponsors, officially stated:
“We do not support or promote any match that includes Pakistan.”
Despite having a 5-year sponsorship deal, they backed out of this particular match in protest.
📅 Will India and Pakistan Meet Again in the Tournament?
🔹 Group-Stage Match is Cancelled — But What About the Final?
Organizers haven’t confirmed what will happen if India and Pakistan both reach the final. Will it be played or cancelled again? That remains to be seen.
🔍 Why This Story Matters
This isn’t just about cricket. It reflects a deeper connection between national sentiment, sports, and diplomacy.
🔹 Players Taking a Stand
This is one of the rare times we’ve seen so many ex-cricketers step away from a match for national reasons — and make their reasoning very public.
🔹 Public & Sponsor Pressure
In a tournament meant to entertain, public pressure and political sensitivity changed everything. It shows how powerful public opinion and brand positioning can be.
✍️ Final Thoughts
The India vs Pakistan legends match was more than just a game — it became a symbol of national priorities over nostalgia.
From player withdrawals to sponsor exits and emotional statements, this incident proves that even in retirement, cricketers remain deeply tied to the values they stand for.
❓ FAQs
Q1: Why was the Pakistan vs India WCL match cancelled?
A: Because Indian players, starting with Shikhar Dhawan, pulled out in protest of the Pahalgam terror attack.
Q2: Was this an official tournament match?
A: Yes, it was part of the World Championship of Legends (WCL) 2025.
Q3: Which Indian players withdrew?
A: Shikhar Dhawan, Harbhajan Singh, Suresh Raina, Irfan Pathan, and Yusuf Pathan.
Q4: Did any sponsors react to the controversy?
A: Yes, EaseMyTrip refused to support the match, citing national interest.
Q5: Could India vs Pakistan still meet in the final?
A: Possibly — but the organisers haven’t clarified if the final will go ahead if both teams qualify.
