Yuvraj Singh-led India Champions refuse to face Pakistan Champions in protest, leaving Shahid Afridi watching helplessly from the stands
🏏 India Champions Walk Out Over Political Tensions
In a dramatic turn of events at the World Championship of Legends 2025, the India Champions team, led by former star Yuvraj Singh, walked out of the tournament, refusing to play their scheduled semifinal match against Pakistan Champions.
The decision was a clear continuation of India’s political stance in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, with players refusing to engage in any cricketing ties with Pakistan.
📽️ Shahid Afridi Left Watching as Indian Players Exit
A now-viral video shows Shahid Afridi, the captain of Pakistan Champions, standing silently in the stadium balcony as Indian legends including Yuvraj Singh, Suresh Raina, Shikhar Dhawan, and Irfan Pathan left the venue following their principled withdrawal.
🔥 Afridi’s “Kis Muh Se” Remark Sparks Controversy
Prior to the match, Shahid Afridi had taken a jibe at the Indian side, saying:
“Pata nahi ab kis muh se khelega, par khelega hamare saath hi”
(Don’t know with what face they’ll play, but they’ll have to play against us.)
The remark was seen as provocative, especially in the wake of India’s refusal to play Pakistan in the group stage. However, his words dramatically backfired, as the Indian team chose national sentiment over competition, withdrawing from the semifinal entirely.
⚖️ Official Statement: Match Called Off, Pakistan to Final
The tournament organisers released a formal statement acknowledging India’s stance:
“We respect the India Champions’ decision to withdraw from the semifinals, and we equally respect the Pakistan Champions’ readiness to compete… Pakistan Champions will advance to the final.”
They also added:
“Though sport can drive positive change, public sentiment must always be respected — after all, everything we do is for our audience.”
Why the Decision Resonates
- The Indian side had already refused to face Pakistan in the group stage.
- The withdrawal was a collective decision by senior players, including Yusuf Pathan, Irfan Pathan, and others.
- The team had qualified for the semifinals after a win over West Indies Champions, making their walkout even more symbolic and deliberate
🔍 What This Means for World Championship of Legends
- Pakistan Champions progress to the final without playing the semifinal.
- The India Champions’ decision reflects the increasing intersection of politics and international sport, especially when national sentiment is at stake.
- The incident puts a spotlight on tournament organisers and their ability to navigate high-profile political disputes.
📌 In Summary
The India Champions’ walkout in the WCL 2025 semifinal sends a strong political and moral message, choosing national integrity over rivalry. Shahid Afridi’s bold pre-match comment failed to provoke a change of heart, as the Indian players stood united in their decision to not play. With this development, Pakistan reaches the final — but the cricketing world is left with deeper questions about the future of cross-border sporting events.
Also Read : India vs Pakistan Confirmed! Champions Seal WCL 2025 Semi-Final Spot with 5-Wicket Win
