BIRMINGHAM: Tensions off the field made headlines as the highly anticipated semi-final between arch-rivals India Champions and Pakistan Champions in the World Championship of Legends (WCL) 2025 failed to take place. The India Champions officially withdrew from the clash, granting Pakistan a direct route to the final.
Reacting to the unexpected forfeit, Pakistan Champions’ owner Kamil Khan addressed the situation in an interview with a private channel, offering his thoughts on the controversy and commending his team’s flawless performance throughout the tournament.
🇵🇰 “We Earned Our Spot in the Final” – Kamil Khan
Kamil Khan expressed full confidence in the team’s consistency and spirit, pointing to their undefeated streak in the league stage.
“There’s no disappointment from our side. Our players have delivered outstanding performances and remained unbeaten throughout the league matches,” Kamil stated.
He further added that the team’s focus remained on winning the tournament, regardless of the opponent:
“The semifinal was meant to be a challenge, but we weren’t overly concerned about who we’d face. Our mission was to reach the final and lift the trophy.”
Regarding the walkover victory, Kamil emphasized that Pakistan’s qualification for the final was well-earned:
“If we’ve been awarded a walkover, it’s because of our consistent efforts as a team. Our performance justifies our place in the final, and we’re proud of that.”
WCL Responds with Official Statement
Following the controversy, the WCL management issued an official statement confirming India’s decision to forfeit and backing both teams.
“At WCL, we believe in the unifying power of sport. However, public sentiment must be respected. We honor the India Champions’ decision to withdraw and appreciate Pakistan Champions’ readiness to compete,” read the statement.
Political Tensions Overshadow Cricketing Rivalry
The semi-final, originally scheduled to be held in Birmingham, was one of the most anticipated fixtures of WCL 2025, reigniting the intense rivalry between India and Pakistan. But recent political strains between the neighboring nations raised doubts over whether the clash would proceed.
Notably, India Champions had also declined to play their group stage match against Pakistan, which resulted in one point being awarded to both sides.
What’s Next?
With India out, Pakistan now awaits their opponent in the final, looking to carry their dominant form and unbeaten streak to a WCL title win. As discussions continue around the off-field decisions, fans are still set for a thrilling conclusion to an already eventful tournam