Dhawan Addresses Potential Semifinal Match Against Pakistan in WCL 2025

India Champions’ opening batsman, Shikhar Dhawan, shared his thoughts on a possible high-stakes knockout game against Pakistan Champions in the ongoing World Championship of Legends (WCL) 2025. He revealed whether he would participate in the highly anticipated contest.

During a recent media interaction after India’s close defeat by Australia, Dhawan faced a question about his possible participation should India face Pakistan in the semifinals.

Dhawan responded directly, dismissing the chance.

“This is not the appropriate time or place to ask this question. Even if I had not played before, I still would not play now,” Dhawan stated.

Notably, the group-stage match between rivals India and Pakistan, scheduled for July 20 at Edgbaston, was officially cancelled.

The announcement was communicated through a statement on the WCL’s official social media channels, confirming the cancellation of this important match.

Before the announcement, reports indicated that five Indian players had imposed strict conditions regarding their involvement in the game.

Sources revealed that former Indian stars Irfan Pathan, Yusuf Pathan, Suresh Raina, Harbhajan Singh, and Dhawan voiced strong objections to the inclusion—or even presence—of former Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Afridi.

The players allegedly informed the tournament organizers that they would refuse to play if Afridi was part of the team or present at the venue.

In tournament play, India experienced their second defeat after Australia successfully chased a challenging 204-run target in the final over.

Meanwhile, Pakistan Champions maintained their strong performance, securing their third straight victory by defeating the West Indies Champions by 49 runs.

Kamran Akmal’s century, coupled with excellent bowling, propelled Pakistan to the top position in the WCL 2025 points table.