As anticipation builds for the high-voltage semi-final clash in the World Championship of Legends (WCL) 2025, former Pakistani all-rounder Shahid Afridi has stirred the pot with a cheeky remark aimed at India Champions.
During a recent media interaction, Afridi playfully questioned India’s position in the tournament.
“Pakistan has reached the semi-final — just look at our ages. And yet, here we are. With what face will India play against Pakistan?” he said with a grin.
His comments come amid swirling reports from Indian media suggesting that several India Champions players are hesitant to participate in the upcoming match against their long-time rivals.
The much-anticipated semi-final is set to be played tomorrow in Birmingham. However, doubts remain over India Champions’ participation. Just two weeks ago, the reigning champions had refused to play a group stage match against Pakistan Champions, resulting in both teams being awarded one point each.
Should India Champions withdraw from the semi-final, Pakistan Champions will automatically advance to the final. Tournament organizers have not yet released an official statement on the matter.
India’s Rocky Road to the Semi-Finals
The India Champions’ campaign in WCL 2025 got off to a rocky start, with the team initially languishing at the bottom of the points table. However, they bounced back in spectacular fashion, securing a place in the semi-finals after a thrilling win over West Indies Champions.
Chasing a target of 145 runs, India wrapped up the match in just 14 overs, powered by a stellar half-century from Stuart Binny and a vital knock from Yusuf Pathan.
Pakistan Champions Unbeaten and in Form
In contrast, the Pakistan Champions have been in dominant form throughout the tournament. Runners-up in the previous edition, they went undefeated in the league stage, topping the points table convincingly.
Their final league game saw them thrash Australia Champions, bowling them out for a mere 74 runs. Veteran spinner Saeed Ajmal starred with the ball, picking up an impressive six-wicket haul. Pakistan chased down the target with ease, finishing the match inside eight overs without losing a single wicket.