Following the withdrawal of India Legends from the WCL fixture against Pakistan, former Pakistan captain Salman Butt issued a scathing challenge. He demanded that India must not only avoid playing Pakistan in the WCL but extend that boycott to all ICC events, including the World Cup. He stated bluntly: “Now don’t play against us in any ICC tournament, not even the Olympics… make this a promise.” (Pakistan Champions) have made it clear – we won’t forget this.
Background: Why the WCL Match Was Cancelled
The highly anticipated veterans’ match at Edgbaston between India Champions and Pakistan Champions was cancelled after many former Indian players—including Shikhar Dhawan, Suresh Raina, and Harbhajan Singh—withdrew following the April Pahalgam terror attack. WCL organisers issued a public apology, acknowledging the emotional impact and saying they were forced to call off the fixture to avoid further discomfort.
Salman Butt’s Challenge & Rhetoric
Salman Butt, on his YouTube channel, criticised senior Indian players as instigators of a collective decision, adding pressure for others to withdraw. He questioned India’s motives and patriotism, stating: “We will keep reminding them of their nationalism if they revert in ICC tournaments.”
Sponsor Pullouts & Political Underpinnings
In response to the developments, sponsors like EaseMyTrip formally withdrew support, stating they would not be associated with any matches involving Pakistan. They reaffirmed national sentiments: “We stand by Team India.” Their exit came hours before the match cancellation.
Impact on PCB & Asia Cup Relations
The fallout has placed the PCB in a precarious position ahead of the Asia Cup. With India threatening withdrawal from ACC meetings and ICC events, PCB faces a financial hit, including a projected INR 34.8 crore loss if the Asia Cup is relocated or affected.
Potential ICC & World Cup Ramifications
Butt’s warning highlights an extreme scenario: a full boycott of India–Pakistan fixtures in ICC events, including World Cups and Olympics. The ICC’s neutral-venue policy for India–Pakistan matches until 2027 suggests the sport’s governing body is aware of such sensitivities.
Public & Social Media Reaction
Online responses have been polarised:
- Some applaud India’s stance as a principled stand, saying it sets a benchmark for national sentiment.
- Others criticise Butt’s statement as untenable; players missing high-stakes global tournaments over WCL fallout seems unrealistic.
- Calls have emerged demanding formation of a code of ethics around sports withdrawn from politics.
What Could This Mean Going Forward?
If India were to avoid fixtures involving Pakistan in a World Cup, the cricketing landscape would undergo seismic change:
- ICC Scheduling Shift: Major events may be redesigned to bypass marquee matchups.
- Financial Impact: Broadcasters and sponsors prize India–Pakistan games for viewership, revenue and engagement.
- Politics vs Sport: Escalation of tensions could threaten future bilateral ties in cricket.
Summary Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Fixture Cancelled | India Legends vs Pakistan Champions at WCL |
| Main Reason | Withdrawal after public backlash over Pahalgam attack |
| Warning Issued By | Salman Butt |
| Demand Made | India should promise to not play Pakistan in ICC events |
| Sponsor Reaction | EaseMyTrip & others withdrew support |
| ICC Impact | Neutral-venue policy in effect till 2027 |
| Financial Risk | PCB facing ~INR 34.8 crore loss over Asia Cup |
Disclaimer: This article is based on information compiled from online sources. Please verify independently before making any decisions based on it.
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