The second version of the match began on June 18 at Edgbaston and is scheduled for an August 2 remaining. World Cup winner Yuvraj Singh is the captain of the India legends, whereas the squad additionally options the likes of Harbhajan Singh, Irfan Pathan, Suresh Raina, Robin Uthappa and Varun Aaron amongst others.
The WCL organisers shared a press release on their X account, detailing the choice of cancellation and mentioned their intention whereas conducting the match was to recreate some “happy memories”.
“After listening to the information that the Pakistan hockey workforce will likely be coming to India this yr, and seeing the latest India vs Pakistan volleyball match together with a couple of different fixtures between the 2 nations in numerous sports activities, we considered persevering with with the India vs Pakistan match at WCL, simply to create some completely satisfied reminiscences for individuals across the globe.
“But maybe in the process, we ended up hurting the feelings of many and stirring emotions,” the WCL assertion learn. The organisers additionally apologised for “unintentionally causing discomfort” to Indian legends.
“Hence, we have decided to call off the India-Pakistan match. We sincerely apologise again for hurting the sentiments and hope people will understand that all we ever wanted was to bring a few happy moments to the fans,” it learn.
Former India opener Shikhar Dhawan additionally shared a press release on X, saying his stand to not take part within the match in opposition to Pakistan.
“This is to formally reiterate and make sure that Mr. Shikhar Dhawan won’t be taking part in any matches in opposition to the Pakistan workforce within the upcoming WCL League. This determination was communicated earlier throughout our dialogue on name and WhatsApp dated eleventh May 2025,” learn his assertion.
Dhawan made it clear that he has taken the decision in view of the present “geopolitical” scenario between India and Pakistan within the aftermath of Pahalgam terror assault and the following Operation Sindoor carried out by the nation.
“In view of the present geopolitical scenario and the prevailing tensions between India and Pakistan, Mr. Dhawan and his workforce have taken this place after due consideration.
“We respectfully request the league’s understanding and cooperation on this matter,” he mentioned within the assertion.
India had defeated Pakistan by 5 wickets to win the inaugural version of the six-team legends match final yr in Edgbaston.
Published – July 20, 2025 09:01 am IST
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