Shikhar Dhawan refuses to play against Pakistan in WCL due to political tensions

According to WCL statement, the veterans cricket match between India and Pakistan scheduled for Sunday in Birmingham — has been cancelled after Indian players declared their refusal.

Shikhar Dhawan and his teammates declined to participate due to ongoing geopolitical tensions between the two countries, following the terror attack in Pahalgam several months ago — an incident that also led to temporary suspensions of IPL and PSL.

“In view of our current geopolitical situation and prevailing tensions between India and Pakistan, Dhawan and his team have taken this position after due consideration,” stated the announcement shared on social media.

The tournament involving six teams including Australia, South Africa, England and West Indies — will continue with a format where each team plays once before the top four advance to semifinals. Yuvraj Singh leads the Indian team while Mohammad Hafeez captains Pakistan in this competition concluding in early August.