Why Was the India-Pakistan Clash at the World Championship of Legends Cancelled?
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Synopsis
The anticipated India-Pakistan clash at the World Championship of Legends has been cancelled due to strong opposition from Indian players and a key sponsor. Discover the reasons behind this controversial decision and its implications for future matches.
Key Takeaways
- India-Pakistan match at WCL cancelled due to player and sponsor objections.
- WCL organisers apologised for causing discomfort.
- Former players expressed strong sentiments against participating.
- EaseMyTrip reiterated its policy of non-participation in matches involving Pakistan.
- Rising tensions affected the atmosphere surrounding the match.
Birmingham, July 20 (NationPress) The highly awaited match between India and Pakistan at the ongoing World Championship of Legends (WCL) has been officially cancelled due to significant opposition from Indian players and a primary tournament sponsor.
The tournament organisers released a formal statement expressing regret for "hurting sentiments" and "causing discomfort" to the Indian legends.
In their announcement, the WCL organisers mentioned that the India-Pakistan match was initially intended to promote goodwill, inspired by a recent friendly volleyball encounter between the two nations. However, they recognised that the initiative failed, leading to discomfort among Indian players and igniting a widespread backlash.
“The fixture was intended to create joyful memories for fans,” the statement noted. “Yet, we understand that it may have resulted in unease for the Indian legends and their supporters. We sincerely apologise for any distress caused and have opted to cancel the match.”
This cancellation follows public statements from former Indian cricketers, including Suresh Raina and Shikhar Dhawan, who declared their refusal to take part in the match.
In a post on social media platform X (previously Twitter), Dhawan shared an email he had sent to WCL organisers on May 11, explicitly stating his unwillingness to compete against Pakistan. “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 (I stand by the decision I made on May 11. My country is everything for me, and nothing is greater than the nation),” Dhawan expressed.
Sources reveal that additional Indian players have also privately indicated their decision to forgo the match against Pakistan.
The controversy escalated when one of the main sponsors of WCL, travel-tech company EaseMyTrip, reaffirmed its long-standing policy of non-participation in any match involving Pakistan. The company, which entered a five-year sponsorship agreement with the tournament two years ago, reiterated its position in a statement on social media.
“Despite entering into a 5-year sponsorship agreement with WCL, our stance has always been clear—EaseMyTrip will not associate with or participate in any WCL match involving Pakistan,” the company stated. “We proudly continue to support the India Champions but will not promote or endorse any match that includes Pakistan. This position was clearly communicated to the WCL team from the beginning. Bharat First. Always.”
India and Pakistan were set to compete in Birmingham on Sunday in what would have been their first cricket match since the Pahalgam terror attack and India’s subsequent Operation Sindoor. Rising tensions had already overshadowed the fixture, stirring fan backlash and political discourse.
The India Legends hold the title of defending champions of the WCL, having triumphed over Pakistan in last year's final, with both Shahid Afridi and the Indian stalwarts participating.
Point of View
It's crucial to prioritize national sentiments. The cancellation of the India-Pakistan match reflects the players' and sponsors' strong feelings, emphasizing a commitment to national pride above all. This decision, while disappointing for fans, showcases the importance of respecting sentiments and upholding values.
NationPress
20/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the India-Pakistan match cancelled?
The match was cancelled due to strong objections from Indian players and a major tournament sponsor, EaseMyTrip, which stated it would not participate in any match involving Pakistan.
What did the WCL organisers say about the cancellation?
The organisers expressed regret for any discomfort caused and acknowledged that their intentions to foster goodwill backfired.
Who were the prominent players opposing the match?
Former cricketers like Suresh Raina and Shikhar Dhawan publicly declared their refusal to participate in the match.
What is the position of EaseMyTrip regarding the match?
EaseMyTrip reaffirmed its policy of non-participation in matches involving Pakistan, stating their commitment to supporting India Champions only.
What was the historical context of this match?
This match was significant as it would have been the first encounter since the Pahalgam terror attack and subsequent Operation Sindoor, amid rising political tensions.
