India Pulls Out, Afridi Voices Disappointment

News Desk 

Islamabad: Former Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Afridi has called for keeping cricket free from political interference, following India’s decision to pull out of a match against Pakistan Champions in the upcoming 2025 World Championship of Legends (WCL).

Speaking to the media on Sunday, Afridi expressed disappointment over the development, saying that players should act as ambassadors of the sport and avoid politicizing the game.

“Cricket should be kept away from politics,” Afridi said. “Players should remain good ambassadors of cricket.”

He pointed out that Indian players had already travelled to England and participated in training sessions before abruptly withdrawing from the match. “It would have been better if the Indian players had informed the organisers in advance about their unwillingness to play against Pakistan Champions,” he added.

Afridi noted that the situation changed dramatically in a short span of time. “The entire scenario shifted within a single day — just one player’s stance altered everything,” he said, without naming the player.

He further claimed that even Indian players were disheartened by how events unfolded. “Even the Indian players themselves were disappointed with how matters unfolded,” he remarked.

Afridi’s comments come amid growing concerns over the intersection of politics and sports, especially in high-profile international tournaments.