India’s team at the World Championship of Legends (WCL) has withdrawn from its scheduled semi-final clash against Pakistan, citing its firm opposition to bilateral sporting ties in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack.
The decision, driven by a sense of national sentiment and solidarity with the victims of the attack, means the much-anticipated fixture at Edgbaston on Thursday will not take place. Several senior Indian players, including Shikhar Dhawan, Irfan Pathan, Yuvraj Singh, Harbhajan Singh, and Suresh Raina — conveyed their refusal to take the field against Pakistan, reiterating the country’s longstanding stand on no sporting engagement with Pakistan following acts of terrorism.
This is the second time in the ongoing WCL tournament that India has declined to play Pakistan. The earlier group-stage fixture was also forfeited by India in protest, shortly after the launch of 'Operation Sindoor' in response to the terror strike.
The semi-final standoff has reignited debate around sporting diplomacy and the limits of engagement with Pakistan in light of continued hostilities.
Also read: India-Pak legends match called off, WCL bows to public pressure
Tournament sponsor EaseMyTrip publicly supported the Indian team’s position. Co-founder Nishant Pitti posted on X, "We applaud Team India @India_Champions for their outstanding performance in the World Championship of Legends, you've made the nation proud. However, the upcoming semi-final against Pakistan is not just another game. Terror and cricket cannot go hand in hand."
He added, "@EaseMyTrip, we stand with India. We cannot support any event that attempts to normalise relations with a country that promotes terrorism. The people of India have spoken and we hear them. EaseMyTrip will not be associated with the India vs Pakistan match in WCL. Some things are bigger than sport. Nation first, business later. Always."
India Champions advanced to the WCL semifinals following a dominant display against West Indies Champions, chasing down a target in just 13.2 overs. But the focus has now shifted from cricketing prowess to political and moral conviction.
It remains to be seen how the organisers respond to India’s decision and whether the Pakistan team will be awarded a walkover.
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