The much-anticipated India vs Pakistan clash in the ongoing World Championship of Legends (WCL) was officially cancelled on Sunday with the tournament organisers issuing a public apology for “hurting the sentiments” of cricket fans around the world.
The match, scheduled to be held at Edgbaston on July 20, was called off after a number of Indian players, including former captains Shikhar Dhawan and Suresh Raina, pulled out citing “geopolitical concerns”.
In an official statement released on X (formerly Twitter), WCL said the decision to schedule the high-profile encounter stemmed from a recent volleyball fixture between the two nations, which they believed could pave the way for “happy memories” for cricket fans. However, the organisers acknowledged that the plan may have backfired.
“We extend our sincere apologies to fans who were eagerly waiting for this match,” the statement read. “It was never our intention to cause discomfort to anyone. The match was envisioned as a celebration of sporting camaraderie but we understand that it has caused concern among Indian players and fans alike.”
EaseMyTrip withdraws sponsorship
Adding to the controversy, Indian travel company EaseMyTrip, one of the event's key sponsors, issued a statement reaffirming its decision not to associate with any matches involving Pakistan.
"EaseMyTrip stands firmly with Team India and respects the sentiments of Indian citizens. We will not participate in or support any matches involving Pakistan,” the company said in a press release.
The decision drew mixed reactions, with critics questioning the growing politicisation of cricket while others lauded the company's nationalistic stand.
Afridi expresses disappointment
Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi, who was set to feature in the Pakistan Champions lineup, voiced his disappointment over the abrupt cancellation.
Speaking to reporters, Afridi said that Indian players had already arrived in England and had even participated in training sessions ahead of the match, making their sudden withdrawal all the more surprising.
“The situation changed within a day. One player's stance shifted everything,” he said. “Even Indian players were unhappy with how it unfolded.”
Afridi stressed the importance of separating politics from sports: “Players should be ambassadors of peace and sportsmanship. Cricket should not become a casualty of political tensions.”
The former all-rounder also criticised the lack of prior communication, saying, “It would have been better if the Indian team had informed organisers earlier. That would have saved time, effort, and disappointment for everyone involved.”
Uncertain future of sporting ties
India and Pakistan have not played a bilateral cricket series since 2012–13. Their encounters are largely limited to multi-nation tournaments, and recent efforts to revive bilateral cricket have repeatedly stumbled over political and diplomatic hurdles.
The WCL match was being viewed by many as a rare chance to see the two nations' retired greats share the field again. Instead, its cancellation has rekindled the longstanding debate on whether sports and politics can truly be kept apart.
As of now, WCL organisers have not announced a replacement fixture. Fans who purchased tickets for the Edgbaston match will be offered full refunds, according to tournament officials.
