🏆 India vs Pakistan Match Called Off in WCL
Match Status: The much-anticipated veteran India Legends vs Pakistan Legends clash, scheduled for July 20, 2025, at the World Championship of Legends (WCL), has been officially called off.
Reasons for Cancellation:
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Geopolitical Tensions: Several senior Indian players—including Shikhar Dhawan, Suresh Raina, Yuvraj Singh, Harbhajan Singh, Irfan and Yusuf Pathan—formally withdrew, citing the ongoing tensions following the Pahalgam attack and military operations like Operation Sindoor.
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Sponsor & Team Boycott: Title sponsor EaseMyTrip also withdrew support, stating it would not be associated with matches involving Pakistan.
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Organizers’ Decision: With key players pulling out, WCL apologized for causing discomfort and respectfully canceled the fixture.
🗣️ Key Statements
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Shikhar Dhawan (via X): Confirmed his withdrawal, saying his decision was based on the "current geopolitical situation."
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WCL Organizers: Stated the aim was to “create happy memories” but regretted that the fixture ended up “hurting the feelings of many.”
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EaseMyTrip: Affirmed they would not support any match involving Pakistan, reaffirming a principled stand.
🤔 What Happens Next?
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WCL Structure: The rest of the tournament (featuring other veteran teams) will continue as scheduled.
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Future India–Pakistan Meetings:
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The upcoming Asia Cup and T20 World Cup remain likely to feature matches between the two nations, though neutral venues may be used depending on ICC and ACC decisions. Y
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✅ Summary Snapshot
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Series: WCL Legends Tournament (June 18 – Aug 2, UK venues)
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Scheduled Date: July 20, 2025 — Canceled before the match
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Indian Withdrawals: Dhawan, Raina, Yuvraj Singh, Harbhajan, Irfan, Yusuf Pathan
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Pak Legends: Led by Mohammad Hafeez; remain scheduled to play in the series
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Sponsors: EaseMyTrip withdrew support for IND–PAK fixture
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Outcome: WCL slot restructured — no IND vs PAK clash
👉 Bottom Line: The India–Pakistan Legends fixture in the WCL was abandoned due to a combination of player withdrawals, political sensitivities, and sponsor resignations, with the organizers issuing a formal apology.
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