India vs Pakistan WCL match called off: Here's why
What's the story
The highly anticipated cricket match between India and Pakistan in the ongoing World Championship of Legends (WCL) has been called off. The decision comes after several Indian players, including Shikhar Dhawan, Harbhajan Singh and Suresh Raina, withdrew from the fixture. The withdrawals were reportedly influenced by the Pahalgam terror attack in April this year. The game was scheduled to take place on July 20 at Edgbaston, Birmingham.
Apology issued
Apology from WCL
The WCL has apologized for the emotional distress caused by their decision to schedule an India-Pakistan game. They explained that the match was announced after a recent friendly volleyball encounter between the two nations, with hopes of creating "happy memories" for fans. However, they admitted that this decision unintentionally hurt sentiments and caused discomfort to several Indian legends.
Twitter Post
Here is the statememt!
Dear all , pic.twitter.com/ViIlA3ZrLl
— World Championship Of Legends (@WclLeague) July 19, 2025
Player withdrawals
Shikhar Dhawan confirms withdrawal
Former India opener Shikhar Dhawan confirmed his withdrawal from the match on May 11. He shared an email he had sent to tournament organizers, stating his decision was based on the current geopolitical situation. "I stand by the decision I took on May 11. My country is everything for me and nothing is bigger than the country," Dhawan said in his post.
Twitter Post
This is what
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.
— Shikhar Dhawan (@SDhawan25) July 19, 2025
Jai Hind! 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/gLCwEXcrnR
Sponsorship fallout
Sponsors also pulled out
The WCL also faced strong opposition from its sponsors. EaseMyTrip, a sponsor of the event, issued a statement saying it would not associate with or participate in any WCL match involving Pakistan. "Despite entering into a 5-year sponsorship agreement, EaseMyTrip will not associate with or participate in any WCL match involving Pakistan," the travel-tech portal said.