India Champions Withdraw from WCL 2025 Semifinal Amid Political Tensions

In a significant move, the India Champions, under Yuvraj Singh's leadership, have opted out of the WCL 2025 semifinal against the Pakistan Champions, led by Shahid Afridi. This decision comes in the wake of escalating political tensions following a terrorist attack in Pahalgam. The Indian team has reiterated its stance of not engaging with Pakistan on the cricket field, a position they previously demonstrated during the league stage. A video capturing Afridi's reaction as the Indian players left the venue has gone viral, highlighting the intense emotions surrounding this decision. The situation escalated further after Afridi's provocative comments, which ultimately led to India's withdrawal from the tournament.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 2, 2025, 02:02 IST

India Champions Opt Out of Semifinal Match

The India Champions, captained by Yuvraj Singh, have decided to withdraw from the semifinal of the World Championship of Legends (WCL) 2025, opting not to face the Pakistan Champions led by Shahid Afridi. This decision follows escalating political tensions between India and Pakistan, particularly in light of the recent terrorist incident in Pahalgam.

Reiterating their previous position, the India Champions have chosen to refrain from competing against Pakistan on the cricket field, a stance they first exhibited during the league matches.

A video circulating on social media captures a visibly shocked Shahid Afridi observing from a stadium balcony as Yuvraj Singh, Suresh Raina, Shikhar Dhawan, Irfan Pathan, and Yusuf Pathan departed the venue.

Before the match, Afridi had made a controversial remark, stating, “Pata nahi ab kis muh se khelega hamare sath hee (Don’t know with what face India will play, but they will have to play against us).”

However, this comment backfired, as the Indian team opted to exit the tournament instead of succumbing to pressure.