Former Pakistan wicketkeeper Kamran Akmal and Pakistan Champions team owner Kamil Khan have strongly condemned the cancellation of the much-anticipated World Championship of Legends clash against India, blaming "politics in sport" for the debacle.
The match, scheduled to take place in Birmingham, was called off after Indian players — including Harbhajan Singh, Yuvraj Singh, Shikhar Dhawan, and the Pathan brothers, Irfan and Yusuf — refused to take the field against Pakistan. Their primary objection was reportedly directed at Shahid Afridi, whom they accuse of stirring anti-India sentiments during recent military tensions between the two countries in May.
The match was scheduled and there was huge excitement among fans who had travelled from the US, Canada, India, and Pakistan — but they were left disappointed by a small action taken by some Indian players.
“Any match involving India and Pakistan creates enormous buzz. But fans left Birmingham disgusted due to the ego of a few individuals.”
Pakistan team owner Kamil Khan echoed the sentiment, calling the cancellation a betrayal of cricket’s true purpose.
We at WCL have always cherished and loved cricket, and our only aim has been to give fans some good, happy moments.
“On behalf of the Pakistan Champions, we express our deep disappointment over WCL’s decision to call off the match against India. This decision not only undermines the spirit of the game but has let down cricket fans across the globe.”
Khan went on to underline that sport should rise above political differences.
“Cricket has the unique power to unite. Our participation in this tournament is rooted in peace, positivity, and the genuine spirit of the game,” he added.
“Despite this setback, we will continue with the same passion, discipline, and professionalism that define our team. We remain proud ambassadors of our country and are committed to representing Pakistan with honour.”
Repeated attempts by Telecom Asia Sport to reach Shahid Afridi for comment went unanswered. However, sources close to the former captain indicated that he will issue a statement in due course.
The cancellation of the Pakistan-India match has reignited the debate around politics in sport — and whether players should be allowed to let personal and national tensions interfere with the game that fans cherish around the world.
