Will India Play Semi-Final Against Pakistan? Controversy Strikes Again With Top Sponsor Backing Out News24 –

The semi-final between India and Pakistan has again come into the spotlight as the knockout match now hangs in the balance. India had earlier refused to play against Pakistan, but questions have resurfaced about what will happen if they decline to face them again. Recently, it was agreed that India will be playing against Pakistan in the upcoming Asia Cup 2025 in September but the fate of WTC semi-final still remains undecided.

Earlier Boycott Still Casting A Shadow

Earlier in the tournament, India skipped their preset group-stage fixture against Pakistan. This move followed the Pahalgam terror attack, which sparked angry responses throughout the country and heightened military tensions with Pakistan. That decision has now set the tone for what is likely to unfold in the upcoming semi-final.

Sponsor Pulls Out Over National Sentiment

In a demonstration of national unity, EaseMyTrip, one of the WCL’s commercial sponsors, has pulled out of supporting the India-Pakistan semi-final. The co-founder of the company, Nishant Pitti, made the announcement through social media, stating that their to withdraw from the match was not influenced by financial or brand-related issues, but made on moral and patriotic grounds.

WCL Organisers Remain Silent

With growing speculation, WCL management has not made any official statement yet on whether the semi-final would be held or not. Fans, players, and broadcasters alike have become concerned due to the uncertainty.

Shikhar Dhawan Hints At Personal Boycott

Adding further uncertainty to the situation, former Indian opener Shikhar Dhawan, who is currently playing in the WCL, has previously publicly declared that he would not play if India were to be pitted against Pakistan in a match. His position adds further complexity to team selection and the match’s viability.

How The Teams Qualified

India advanced to the semi-finals by securing the fourth spot in the league table of six teams, booking their place after a decisive victory over the West Indies Champions in the last group-stage encounter. Pakistan Champions, on the other hand, ran through the group stage, standing at the top of the table after a series of authoritative performances.

What Happens Next?

With the game now in the balance, everyone’s waiting to see if the tournament organisers and their cricket boards can reach an agreement and whether tensions will again overshadow the pitch.