The highly anticipated legends cricket match between India and Pakistan in the ongoing World Championship of Legends (WCL) has been cancelled after several Indian players, including Shikhar Dhawan, refused to participate, citing the Pahalgam terror attack and prevailing geopolitical tensions.
The second edition of the WCL, which began on June 18 at Edgbaston, had slated the India-Pakistan veterans’ clash as one of its marquee fixtures. However, Indian legends led by World Cup winner Yuvraj Singh, with key players like Harbhajan Singh, Irfan Pathan, Suresh Raina, Robin Uthappa, and Varun Aaron, opted out in protest.
In a statement on X (formerly Twitter), the WCL organisers said the match was conceived to “recreate happy memories” by promoting sporting ties, especially after recent India-Pakistan encounters in hockey and volleyball. However, they acknowledged that the decision “unintentionally caused discomfort” and “stirred emotions.”
“We sincerely apologise for hurting sentiments. All we wanted was to bring a few happy moments to the fans,” the organisers said.
Shikhar Dhawan also issued a formal statement confirming his withdrawal, adding that the decision was communicated earlier during conversations on May 11.
“In view of the current geopolitical situation and the prevailing tensions between India and Pakistan, Mr. Dhawan and his team have taken this position after due consideration,” the statement read.
The boycott follows the Pahalgam terror attack in April and India’s subsequent military response under Operation Sindoor. The players’ move reflects growing concern over cross-border terrorism and rising public sentiment.
India had previously defeated Pakistan by five wickets in the final of the inaugural WCL tournament held last year, also in Edgbaston.
