EaseMyTrip Withdraws Sponsorship Ahead of India vs Pakistan WCL 2025 Clash
New Delhi, 30th July 2025: A day before the much-anticipated India vs Pakistan semi-final clash in the World Championship of Legends (WCL) 2025, controversy has erupted off the field as travel platform EaseMyTrip announced its decision to withdraw sponsorship from the match, citing national sentiment and concerns over terrorism.
The high-voltage semi-final is scheduled for July 31 at Edgbaston, but the build-up has now been overshadowed by political tensions and divided opinions on whether India should even participate in the game.
EaseMyTrip Pulls Out Citing “Country First” Stance
EaseMyTrip co-founder Nishant Pitti took to Instagram to share the company’s decision, stating:
“We congratulate Team India on reaching the semi-finals. But the semi-final against Pakistan is not just another match. EaseMyTrip is distancing itself from this match. We cannot support any event that tries to normalize relations with a country that promotes terrorism. Some things are bigger than sports. Country first, business later. Jai Hind.”
The statement quickly went viral and sparked both support and debate on social media platforms.
India Champions Storm Into Semi-Finals
India Champions booked their spot in the semi-finals after a thumping win over West Indies Legends in their final league match. Chasing a modest target of 145 runs, the Indian side sealed victory in just 13.2 overs. All-rounder Stuart Binny led the chase with an unbeaten 50-run knock, steering the team to its only win in the league stage — but one that proved just enough to secure qualification.
Will India Play Against Pakistan?
The semi-final lineup sets up a marquee clash between arch-rivals India and Pakistan, but uncertainty looms over India’s participation.
Earlier in the group stage, India had boycotted their scheduled match against Pakistan, with senior players including Shikhar Dhawan and Harbhajan Singh refusing to take the field. Dhawan, when questioned, had said, “I didn’t play then, and I won’t play now either.”
With the team now officially slated to face Pakistan in the knockouts, the Indian camp faces a tough call — whether to uphold their earlier stance or take the field for a shot at the title.
Mounting Tensions Ahead of Semi-Final
The confluence of sports and politics has once again sparked debate over whether national sentiment should influence cricketing ties. The WCL 2025, featuring former international players, has become more than just a nostalgic celebration of cricketing legends—it’s now at the centre of a symbolic geopolitical standoff.
Cricket fans and experts alike are awaiting an official response from the India Champions team and the tournament organisers. For now, the fate of the India vs Pakistan semi-final hangs in the balance.
