The India vs Pakistan clash in the World Championship of Legends (WCL) has taken a dramatic turn just a day before the scheduled face-off on 20th July.
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A few Indian players from the WCL squad have decided to withdraw, citing public backlash and heightened national sentiment following the recent Pahalgam terror attack.
The highly anticipated match between India Champions and Pakistan Champions was part of the ongoing WCL tournament in England. But following the deadly events back home in April, some legendary cricketers have decided to step aside, respecting public sentiment.
Which India legends have withdrawn from India vs Pakistan WCL 2025 match?
As per media reports, Harbhajan Singh, Yusuf Pathan, and Irfan Pathan have opted out of the India vs Pakistan WCL match.
This decision was reportedly influenced by public criticism on social media and the sensitive political climate after the April 22 Pahalgam attack, which killed 26 civilians in a deadly ambush.
Harbhajan was the first to confirm his decision. Sources suggest that discussions were held internally before the final call was taken. The Pathan brothers also followed suit and expressed their respect towards public emotions.
🚨 Harbhajan Singh, Yusuf Pathan, Irfan Pathan have withdrawn from the WCL match against Pakistan: Sources
— RevSportz Global (@RevSportzGlobal) July 19, 2025
The match between the arch-rivals was set to be played in the group stage of the WCL 2025 tournament on 20th July. The WCL tournament began on July 18 and the India vs Pakistan game was one of the headline fixtures of the group round.
Why is there backlash over the India vs Pakistan WCL match?
The withdrawal comes just months after the Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, where five heavily armed terrorists opened fire on tourists near the Baisaran Valley. Twenty-six people were killed in the attack and the incident was followed by military clashes between India and Pakistan.
The incident is being called one of the worst civilian attacks since the 2008 Mumbai attacks and led to national grief and anger.
Although the WCL is a league featuring retired players, the presence of Indian players in a game against Pakistan has been seen by some as insensitive under the current circumstances.