Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi has welcomed the World Championship of Legends (WCL) decision to cancel the India-Pakistan cricket match, calling it a “victory for the nation’s collective conscience” in the aftermath of recent terror attacks.
Taking to social media platform X, Chaturvedi wrote, “Collective voice of the nation can move mountains. A big thank you to all those who took up a firm stance and stood against any India-Pak cricket ties, especially post Pahalgam and Operation Sindoor, and supported my call to cancel the match. It has happened. WCL has dropped the India-Pakistan match. Jai Hind.”
The WCL had earlier in the day confirmed the cancellation of the high-profile clash and issued a formal apology for hurting public sentiments, particularly those of Indian cricket legends. The organisers stated that the match was initially proposed following a friendly volleyball encounter between the two nations to create “happy memories for fans.” However, acknowledging widespread discomfort and backlash, the fixture was called off.
The cancellation comes amid heightened public sensitivity following terror-related incidents in Pahalgam and the Indian Army’s Operation Sindoor. Prominent former cricketers like Suresh Raina and Shikhar Dhawan had already opted out of the game, citing the geopolitical situation. Dhawan also shared an earlier email communication with WCL dated May 11, where he made his decision clear, stating: “Jo kadam 11 May ko liya, uspe aaj bhi waise hi khada hoon. Mera desh mere liye sab kuch hai, aur desh se badhkar kuch nahi hota.” (The decision I took on May 11, I still stand by. My country is everything to me, and nothing is bigger than the country.)
The WCL’s move marks a significant instance of sports responding to public sentiment and national concerns, reinforcing that in India, patriotism and public unity remain paramount.
