Former India opener Shikhar Dhawan has withdrawn from the much-anticipated India vs Pakistan clash in the World Championship of Legends 2025, set to take place on Sunday at Edgbaston Cricket Ground in Birmingham. Dhawan shared a statement on social media citing his decision to opt out of all matches against Pakistan, referring to the Pahalgam terror attack that occurred earlier this year in April.“Jo kadam 11 May ko liya, uspe aaj bhi waise hi khada hoon. Mera desh mere liye sab kuch hai, aur desh se badhkar kuch nahi hota [The decision I took on May 11, I stand by it even today. My country means everything to me, and nothing is above the nation],” Dhawan said in his statement.He had earlier conveyed his stance on May 11, confirming his participation in the tournament but clarifying that he would not play any fixtures involving Pakistan.“Dear Team, I trust this email finds you well. This is to formally reiterate and confirm that Mr. Shikhar Dhawan will not be participating in any matches against the Pakistan team in the upcoming WCL League. This decision was communicated earlier during our discussion on call and WhatsApp dated 11th May 2025,” Dhawan’s official communication read.“In view of the current geopolitical situation and the prevailing tensions between India and Pakistan, Mr. Dhawan and his team have taken this position after due consideration. We respectfully request the league’s understanding and cooperation on this matter.“Should you require any further information or clarification, please do not hesitate to reach out.”
The Pahalgam terror attack on April 22 resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians near Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir. The attack was initially claimed by The Resistance Front, believed to be affiliated with Lashkar-e-Taiba.India’s WCL Squad:Shikhar Dhawan, Robin Uthappa (WK), Ambati Rayudu, Gurkeerat Singh Mann, Suresh Raina, Yuvraj Singh (C), Yusuf Pathan, Irfan Pathan, Stuart Binny, Vinay Kumar, Harbhajan Singh, Piyush Chawla, Siddarth Kaul, Abhimanyu Mithun, and Varun Aaron.
