Was the Legends match between India and Pakistan canceled because of Shahid Afridi?
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Was the Legends match between India and Pakistan canceled because of Shahid Afridi?
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Yes, the Legends match between India and Pakistan in the World Championship of Legends (WCL) was indeed called off, and Shahid Afridi's presence and past controversial remarks were a significant factor in this decision. Several Indian players, including Shikhar Dhawan, Suresh Raina, Harbhajan Singh,Read more
Yes, the Legends match between India and Pakistan in the World Championship of Legends (WCL) was indeed called off, and Shahid Afridi’s presence and past controversial remarks were a significant factor in this decision.
See lessSeveral Indian players, including Shikhar Dhawan, Suresh Raina, Harbhajan Singh, Yusuf Pathan, and Irfan Pathan, reportedly refused to play against a Pakistan team featuring Shahid Afridi. This decision was primarily driven by:
* Shahid Afridi’s controversial remarks: Afridi has previously made statements about India that were not well-received by Indian fans and players. He also reportedly made an anti-India remark shortly after the Pahalgam terror attack in April 2025.
* Geopolitical tensions: The cancellation also stemmed from the heightened geopolitical tensions between India and Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack in April 2025 and India’s subsequent “Operation Sindoor.” Indian players cited the “current geopolitical situation and the prevailing tensions” as reasons for their withdrawal.
* Public sentiment and sponsor boycott: There was significant public outcry and backlash on social media against the Indian team playing Pakistan, especially given the recent events. Additionally, one of WCL’s main sponsors, EaseMyTrip, pulled out, stating it would not support any match involving Pakistan.
While the WCL organizers initially aimed to foster goodwill, they ultimately apologized for “hurting sentiments” and “causing discomfort” to the Indian legends and decided to cancel the match.