Shikhar Dhawan has officially withdrawn from the India vs. Pakistan match in the World Championship of Legends (WCL) 2025, reaffirming a decision he communicated to organizers back on May 11. The match, which was scheduled to take place on July 20 at Edgbaston Cricket Ground in Birmingham, has now been called off due to multiple Indian legends pulling out.
Dhawan's decision stems from the ongoing geopolitical tensions between India and Pakistan, further aggravated by the Pahalgam terror attack that occurred in April of this year. The attack, which resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians near Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir, was claimed by The Resistance Front, believed to be affiliated with Lashkar-e-Taiba.
In a statement released on social media, Dhawan emphasized his unwavering stance: "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. (The decision I took on May 11, I stand by it even today. My country means everything to me, and nothing is above the nation.)".
Dhawan had initially confirmed his participation in the WCL 2025, but clarified that he would not play in any matches against Pakistan. This decision was formally conveyed to the WCL organizers on May 11, 2025, via email and other communication channels. The communication stated, "This is to formally reiterate and confirm that Mr. Shikhar Dhawan will not be participating in any matches against the Pakistan team in the upcoming WCL League. This decision was communicated earlier during our discussion on call and WhatsApp dated 11th May 2025,". It further explained, "In view of the current geopolitical situation and the prevailing tensions between India and Pakistan, Mr. Dhawan and his team have taken this position after due consideration. We respectfully request the league's understanding and cooperation on this matter".
Dhawan's withdrawal reflects a prioritization of national sentiment over sporting commitments. The India versus Pakistan clash in WCL 2025 was anticipated to be the first cricket encounter between the two nations after Operation Sindoor.. Following the backlash on social media, reports suggest that other players including Suresh Raina, Harbhajan Singh, Yusuf Pathan, and Irfan Pathan have also withdrawn from the match.
The World Championship of Legends released a statement acknowledging the cancellation of the India vs. Pakistan match, stating: "We at WCL have always cherished and loved cricket, and our only aim has been to give fans some good, happy moments...We unintentionally caused discomfort".
Shikhar Dhawan played for India from 2010 to 2022. His decision to abstain from playing against Pakistan in the WCL 2025 highlights the complex intersection of sports, politics, and national identity.
