The India vs Pakistan match at the World Championship of Legends 2025, scheduled for July 20 in Edgbaston, has been officially cancelled following strong public backlash. The organisers faced intense criticism after announcing the game, especially in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 tourists. As public sentiment turned against any sporting engagement with Pakistan, WCL issued a formal apology and confirmed that the match would not go ahead, acknowledging the hurt caused to the Indian public.
EaseMyTrip, one of the main sponsors of the tournament, also released a firm statement reiterating its position. The company clarified that despite being in a five-year sponsorship deal with WCL, it had made it clear from the beginning that it would not associate with or support any match involving Pakistan. “We proudly support Team India, but we will not engage in any game that includes Pakistan. Bharat First. Always,” the company said.
The WCL organisers explained that the match was initially planned after it was announced that Pakistan’s hockey team would be touring India. However, with rising tensions and a flood of social media appeals urging Indian players not to compete against Pakistan, the decision was reversed. The organisers have now promised to be more mindful of public sentiment in the future.
