News Desk : The much-anticipated clash between India Legends and Pakistan Legends in the World Championship of Legends (WCL), scheduled for July 20, has been called off following a withdrawal by several prominent Indian cricketers. The decision comes amid a growing backlash over the match being played so soon after the recent Operation Sindoor.
Several Indian cricket icons—including Shikhar Dhawan, Suresh Raina, Yusuf Pathan, Irfan Pathan, and Harbhajan Singh—opted out of the match, reportedly uncomfortable with playing against Pakistan under the current national mood. The pullout by these big names effectively led to the match’s cancellation.
This was set to be the first India-Pakistan faceoff on a cricket field since Operation Sindoor, India’s retaliatory action following a terrorist attack in Jammu & Kashmir. The prospect of a friendly match sparked outrage among Indian fans, who criticized the decision to proceed with the game while tensions remain high. The players’ withdrawal was seen as a stand in solidarity with public sentiment.
Reacting to the controversy, the WCL organizers issued a statement, saying:
“Cricket has always united fans globally. Our intention was to bring joy to cricket lovers, inspired by the recent India-Pakistan volleyball match. However, we respect the emotions of the people and the concerns of Indian players. We regret any hurt caused and have decided to cancel the match.”
The incident has once again highlighted how cricket, especially between India and Pakistan, goes beyond sport and becomes deeply intertwined with national sentiment.
