WCL 2025 Controversy: Will India Avoid Another Pakistan Clash In Semis Or Final? Tensions Rise As Knockouts Loom

India’s refusal to play Pakistan in WCL 2025 after the Pahalgam terror attack sparks controversy, raising questions over a potential semifinal or final clash between the arch-rivals.

The much-anticipated India vs Pakistan clash at the World Championship of Legends (WCL) 2025 has been officially cancelled, sending shockwaves through cricketing circles and social media. Scheduled to take place at Edgbaston, the high-profile game was called off after the Indian team refused to participate, citing the Pahalgam terror attack in April as the reason. While the decision drew both support and criticism, it also raised one burning question: What happens if India and Pakistan meet again in the semifinals or final? Will India take the field this time, or will the rivalry be postponed once more?

Tournament Continues, But Doubts Cloud the Knockouts

Despite India's withdrawal, WCL 2025 continues on schedule. Tournament organisers and stakeholders, including the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and Bollywood co-owner Ajay Devgn, have reiterated their commitment to ensuring a smooth conclusion to the event, which culminates on August 2. Yet, the void left by the India-Pakistan group match looms large. “All remaining matches are taking place. The tournament is going on as per schedule,” confirmed Kamil Khan, owner of the Pakistan Champions. “But if we meet India again in the semifinals or final, a decision will be taken based on the situation.”

Points Table Implications: Can India Still Qualify?

India's campaign so far has been lacklustre, with zero wins from their opening fixtures. However, with two key matches remaining—against England Champions and West Indies Champions—a path to the semifinals remains open. WCL follows a standard 1st vs 4th and 2nd vs 3rd knockout format. Should India secure convincing victories in their final two matches, they could finish fourth, setting up a blockbuster semifinal against group-leaders Pakistan—at least on paper.

What If India Refuses to Play Again?

If the scenario arises and India decides once more to skip the match, Pakistan would likely receive an automatic entry into the final—this time through default rather than on the field. Senior Indian players, including captain Shikhar Dhawan, have already made it clear they will not play against Pakistan, reinforcing the political and emotional weight behind the decision. Sources indicate no appetite within the Indian camp to field even a second-string side for the knockout round, especially after the widespread backlash and criticism following the group-stage withdrawal.

Fan Backlash, Double Standards and the Asia Cup Dilemma

Interestingly, just days after India pulled out of the WCL match, the BCCI cleared India’s participation in the Asia Cup 2025, where the Men in Blue are scheduled to face Pakistan in the group stage. The apparent contradiction sparked a fresh wave of fan outrage, with many accusing the board of double standards—boycotting one tournament while embracing another for commercial or diplomatic reasons. The inconsistency has become a trending debate on platforms like X and Instagram, with hashtags like #BoycottDrama, #IndiaVsPakistan, and #WCL2025Controversy dominating timelines.

What's Next? Awaiting Official Word

As it stands, WCL organisers have not issued a clear policy on what will happen if India and Pakistan are drawn together in the knockout stages. The cricketing world now awaits an official confirmation amid speculation and rising fan interest. The story remains fluid—but one thing is certain: WCL 2025 is no longer just a celebration of cricketing legends. It has become a battleground for geopolitics, public sentiment, and national pride.