WCL 2025: Will India Compete Against Pakistan in the Semifinals?

The World Championship of Legends (WCL) 2025 is at a critical crossroads as India and Pakistan prepare for their upcoming semifinal match. Following a previous cancellation due to India's refusal to play, the question arises: will India compete against Pakistan this time, or will Pakistan advance to the finals unchallenged? Former cricketer Shikhar Dhawan has voiced his stance on the matter, adding to the tension surrounding the event. With potential changes to the matchups looming, the situation remains uncertain, leaving fans eager for clarity.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 30, 2025, 12:10 IST

WCL 2025 Faces a Critical Decision

The World Championship of Legends (WCL) 2025 finds itself at a pivotal juncture once again, reminiscent of the situation on July 20. On that date, a match was scheduled between India and Pakistan, but Indian players opted out, leading to the cancellation of the game. Now, just ten days later, WCL is confronted with a similar dilemma.

Both India and Pakistan have secured their spots in the semifinals of the league, with their first semifinal match set for July 31. However, the pressing question remains: will India play against Pakistan, or will Pakistan advance to the finals without a contest?

The Impact of Past Events

Following a terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22, India launched Operation Sindoor, targeting terrorist bases in Pakistan. This incident strained relations between the two nations, affecting sports as well. During the league match on July 20, Indian players refused to compete against Pakistan, prompting WCL organizers to cancel the match and apologize to Indian fans.

Now, as both teams prepare to face off again, the first semifinal is scheduled to take place in Birmingham on July 31. The critical question looms: will India participate in this match? If they choose not to, Pakistan will advance to the finals without playing.

Shikhar Dhawan's Stance

Recently, former Indian cricketer Shikhar Dhawan was asked whether the team would refuse to play against Pakistan if they reached the semifinals. Dhawan expressed his displeasure at the question, stating that it was inappropriate to ask at that moment. He clarified that if he had not played before, he would not play now either. Previously, other team members had also declined to play against Pakistan, leading to WCL's public apology.

WCL's Apology to Fans

On July 20, when Indian players declined to play against Pakistan, the match was canceled. Following this, WCL organizers issued an apology to fans and prominent Indian cricketers on social media. They emphasized their commitment to cricket and their goal of providing joyful moments for fans.

The organizers mentioned that after hearing about the Pakistan hockey team's visit to India and witnessing a recent volleyball match between the two nations, they considered organizing a match in WCL to create positive memories for fans. However, they acknowledged that this decision may have hurt many people's sentiments, for which they apologized.

Potential Changes to the Semifinal Match

According to media reports, WCL may alter the semifinal matchups. Both semifinals are set to occur in Birmingham, with the second match featuring Australia against South Africa. Reports suggest that WCL organizers might opt not to hold the first semifinal between India and Pakistan, instead pairing both teams with Australia and South Africa respectively.

This could mean India facing Australia and Pakistan taking on South Africa. However, if both India and Pakistan reach the finals, the same situation would arise again, presenting a significant challenge for WCL.