The extremely anticipated India vs Pakistan match within the World Championship of Legends (WCL) 2025, scheduled for July 20 at Edgbaston in Birmingham, is reportedly on the verge of cancellation. This follows vital backlash and the withdrawal of key Indian gamers, together with Harbhajan Singh, Yusuf Pathan, and Irfan Pathan, on account of public outrage over the latest Pahalgam terror assault.
Gamers pull out amid public backlash
Harbhajan Singh, Yusuf Pathan, and Irfan Pathan have pulled out of the India vs Pakistan WCL match, based on a report by RevSportz with sources citing criticism from Indian followers, significantly after the Pahalgam terror assault, which claimed 26 civilian lives.
The assault, attributed to the Resistance Entrance, an offshoot of Lashkar-e-Taiba, sparked anger, particularly as former Pakistan cricketer Shahid Afridi, a part of the Pakistan Champions squad, made controversial anti-India remarks.
Followers criticized Indian gamers like Yuvraj Singh and Shikhar Dhawan for taking part within the match. Stories recommend different gamers, corresponding to Suresh Raina, may additionally withdraw, although no affirmation has been made.
The Pahalgam assault and Indo-Pak tensions
The Pahalgam assault intensified India-Pakistan tensions, with India launching Operation Sindoor, concentrating on terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan. Pakistan’s retaliatory shelling and drone assaults had been thwarted by India, however the incident deepened the diplomatic rift.
Event dynamics and BCCI’s function
Notably, the WCL, an unbiased match that includes retired cricketers, will not be ruled by the Board of Management for Cricket in India (BCCI), limiting the BCCI’s management over participant participation. The India Champions squad, led by Yuvraj Singh, contains stars like Raina and Piyush Chawla, whereas Pakistan’s workforce options Afridi, Mohammad Hafeez, and Shoaib Malik. The match, set for 9:00 PM IST, has drawn consideration as a result of historic rivalry and up to date occasions.
Potential cancellation
Whereas no official cancellation has been confirmed, the withdrawal of key gamers and ongoing fan protests recommend the fixture is in danger. The controversy highlights the challenges of sports activities diplomacy amid political tensions, with followers questioning gamers’ motives.
