IND vs PAK, WCL 2025: India say No to Pakistan for Semifinal, 5 players have Refused already

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In a dramatic and politically charged turn of events, the highly anticipated semifinal clash between India and Pakistan at the WCL 2025 may not take place, as per reports.

Following the horrific Pahalgam terror attack and the launch of India's retaliatory 'Operation Sindoor', the Indian team has taken a firm stand: they will not face Pakistan on the cricket field. The decision, laced with emotion and national sentiment, echoes India's long-standing policy of avoiding bilateral sporting ties with Pakistan in the wake of terror-related hostilities.

Now as per PTI, led by cricket Shikhar Dhawan, Yuvraj Singh, Suresh Raina, Harbhajan Singh, and Irfan Pathan, the Indian side has decided not to play against Pakistan in the semifinal. The other Indian players in the squad have also voiced their opinion in playing against Pakistan.

The team earlier boycotted their group-stage match against Pakistan under similar circumstances. Now, with a semifinal slot on the line at Edgbaston Cricket Ground, the Indian camp has once again chosen country over cricket.

Supporting the move, one of the tournament's key sponsors, EaseMyTrip, voiced its solidarity with the Indian team. Co-founder Nishant Pitti took to social media platform X to declare:

"We applaud Team India @India_Champions for their outstanding performance in the World Championship of Legends, you've made the nation proud. However, the upcoming semi-final against Pakistan is not just another game, Terror and cricket cannot go hand in hand."

He further emphasized, "We stand with India. We cannot support any event that attempts to normalise relations with a country that promotes terrorism. The people of India have spoken and we hear them. EaseMyTrip will not be associated with the India vs Pakistan match in WCL. Some things are bigger than sport. Nation first, business later. Always."

India stormed into the semifinals after a dominant display against West Indies Champions, wrapping up the game in just 13.2 overs on Tuesday. But despite their red-hot form, they've made it clear: principles and patriotism come before play.

What was supposed to be a cricketing spectacle between two fierce rivals has now become a powerful political statement - one that has sent ripples through the global cricketing community.