Shikhar Dhawan was one of several Indian cricketers who declined to play against Pakistan’s Champions in the World Championship of Legends (WCL) 2025 match on July 20. The meeting was later cancelled, and the organisers apologised for scheduling it during the political tension between the two countries caused by the Pahalgam terror attack and the ensuing Operation Sindoor, and for “unintentionally causing discomfort”.
On the sidelines of the event, a reporter asked Dhawan if he would play against Pakistan if both teams advanced to the final stages.
The former India opener became annoyed by the question and informed the reporter that he shouldn’t be asking it. Dhawan stated that his stance remained unchanged.
“Brother, you’re asking this question in the wrong place. Do you believe I’ll respond to that question? You should not be asking this question. Shikhar Dhawan remarked, “And if I haven’t played before, I won’t play.”
You can see the full interaction below:
Shikhar Dhawan angry reply on If Pakistan reaches the semi-final against you… will you still play, or ask for a day off? 😄🇵🇰🇮🇳 #WCL25 pic.twitter.com/d96yRQpsp2
— Ahtasham Riaz (@ahtashamriaz22) July 26, 2025
Ahead of the league-stage encounter between India and Pakistan, Dhawan put out a tweet to confirm that he will not be a part of it. He stated that his country is above everything else for him.
Check out Shikhar Dhawan’s old tweet below:
Jo kadam 11 May ko liya, uspe aaj bhi waise hi khada hoon. Mera desh mere liye sab kuch hai, aur desh se badhkar kuch nahi hota.
Jai Hind! 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/gLCwEXcrnR
— Shikhar Dhawan (@SDhawan25) July 19, 2025
Can India and Pakistan face each other in knockouts?
Pakistan have one foot in the semi-final as they are stationed at the top of the points table, with three wins from four matches. They will play their final group-stage clash against Australia Champions on July 29.
Meanwhile, India are languishing at the bottom of the standings, having lost two out of their first three games. The defending champions will face England on July 27 and the West Indies on July 29.
India
