Pakistan Champions have advanced to the final of the World Championship of Legends (WCL) 2025 following India Champions’ withdrawal from the much-anticipated semi-final clash, tournament organizers announced on Wednesday.

India Champions, the defending titleholders, had dramatically secured their place in the semi-finals after a dominant victory over the West Indies Champions, edging past England Champions due to a superior net run rate. This set up a marquee knockout fixture with arch-rivals Pakistan Champions, who had topped the group stage with nine points from five matches.

However, the highly awaited showdown between the two cricketing giants was thrown into uncertainty shortly after the match-up was confirmed. According to reports, India Champions expressed reluctance to participate in the semi-final, leading to growing speculation over the fate of the encounter.

The WCL organizers have now officially confirmed that the semi-final has been called off due to India Champions’ withdrawal, citing the influence of public sentiment in their decision-making.

“As a league, we deeply believe in the power of sport to unite, inspire, and uplift,” the WCL stated. “But we also recognize that public sentiment plays a vital role in shaping our decisions. Respecting the India Champions’ choice to step back, and acknowledging Pakistan Champions’ willingness to play, we have decided to abandon the match.”

With the forfeit, Pakistan Champions have been granted direct passage to the final, where they will await the winner of the second semi-final, scheduled for Saturday.

The tournament, known for featuring retired legends from around the world, has seen its fair share of drama — but the absence of a marquee India-Pakistan clash in the knockout stages will surely be a disappointment for fans across the globe.

Nevertheless, Pakistan Champions remain focused as they now look ahead to competing for the coveted WCL 2025 title.