By Zainab Shafiq 
The buzz around the much-anticipated Pakistan-India cricket match in the World Championship of Legends (WCL) 2025 has taken a sudden twist. Cricketing stalwarts Harbhajan Singh and Yusuf Pathan have reportedly withdrawn from Sunday’s match against Pakistan, stirring speculation and concern among fans. Though no official statements have been made, sources close to the matter suggest that their decision may be influenced by the recent Pahalgam terror attack that rocked India earlier this year.
This high-voltage clash is the first Pakistan-India cricket match since the April 2025 Pahalgam attack, which claimed 26 lives and reignited political tensions between the two nations. Understandably, the involvement of prominent Indian figures in a game against Pakistan especially so soon after such an event has drawn intense scrutiny, with social media platforms divided over participation.
Adding to the intrigue, reports have surfaced about Irfan Pathan possibly sitting out as well, though confirmation is still pending.
Cricket Diplomacy on Edge as Emotions Run High for Pakistan-India WCL Cricket Match
India and Pakistan have not faced off in a bilateral cricket series for over a decade, with ties restricted to ICC events due to ongoing political discord. The Pahalgam tragedy and subsequent Operation Sindoor have only widened the rift, leaving the future of sporting engagements in limbo.
Both Harbhajan Singh and Yusuf Pathan now hold political roles—Harbhajan in the Rajya Sabha with the Aam Aadmi Party, and Yusuf in the Lok Sabha under the Trinamool Congress. Their absence, though unofficial, carries symbolic weight in today’s geopolitically charged climate.
The WCL 2025, taking place in England, features retired legends from both countries. The India Champions squad was set to include Yuvraj Singh, Shikhar Dhawan, and Suresh Raina, while Pakistan Champions boast the likes of Mohammad Hafeez, Shahid Afridi, and Shoaib Malik. But with key Indian names backing out, the spirit of nostalgia and rivalry might lose some of its sheen.
Anas Ahmed