India vs Pakistan WCL 2025: Clash of Cricket Legends

Cricket’s most storied rivalry ignites once again as the India Champions face the Pakistan Champions in the World Championship of Legends 2025. This July 20th blockbuster at Edgbaston features retired stars and emerging veterans duking it out for glory. Last year’s final saw these teams clash for the title – Pakistan set India 157 runs to win, but India’s batters chased it down in 19.1 overs for a five-wicket victory. Now Pakistan is hungry for redemption, while India looks to defend the crown.

This years India vs Pakistan is goinf to be a bigger one. Both line-ups brim with cricketing greats. On the Pakistan side, fiery all-rounder Shahid Afridi leads the batting charge; he “brings his power-hitting and wicket-taking ability” to every match. Opposing him is India’s veteran opener Shikhar Dhawan, “known for his fearless batting” and trademark flair. This rilvalry is real.

Another exciting duel will be between India’s dependable Suresh Raina, whose “explosive batting” and sharp fielding make him a match-winner, and Pakistan’s wily keeper-batsman Kamran Akmal, famed for his “quick glovework and attacking batting style”. These head-to-head battles – legend versus legend – add extra spice to an already electric contest.

Indo-Pak cricket matches always set pulses racing. Decades of history mean fans on both sides of the border (and millions abroad) will be glued to this contest. Tribal loyalties, packed stadiums, and star-power performances make every India–Pakistan game a cultural event. In Birmingham, the atmosphere is expected to be electric, with proud crowds from South Asia chanting every boundary. Even far-flung fans are organizing watch parties, highlighting how this rivalry transcends sports.

In addition to old-timers, new faces make this rematch even more thrilling. India’s squad introduces recently-retired stars and experienced journeymen: opener Shikhar Dhawan (returning in great form), spin legend Piyush Chawla, and fast bowler Varun Aaron all bolster the batting and bowling depth.

Pakistan has similarly injected fresh firepower. Former all-rounder Imad Wasim – a “power-packed addition to the squad” – brings over 4,148 T20 runs and 365 wickets of experience. Hard-hitting middle-order batsman Asif Ali and left-arm pacer Rumman Raees (a new signing confirmed by team owner Kamil Khan) strengthen Pakistan’s chances. Each name signals dangerous form: every innings and delivery could swing the match in an instant.

“Aajao Dost!! Team owner Kamil Khan welcomes Rumman Raees to the Pakistan Champions family. Let’s bring more fire to the roar,” the franchise announced on social media. This excitement is echoed on both sides: every team tweet and fan post is a preview of the day’s excitement.

Above all, this game is a rematch of last year’s final – and Pakistan is eager to flip the script. In the 2024 Legends Final, India’s disciplined batting overpowered Pakistan’s bowling. Pakistan, perennial underdogs last season, is motivated to avenge that loss. India, on the other hand, aims to prove that their title wasn’t a fluke. With so much personal pride on the line, expect flamboyant strokeplay and fierce bowl-outs as the two teams settle scores.

Full Squad Line-ups

India Champions (WCL 2025): Yuvraj Singh (captain), Shikhar Dhawan, Robin Uthappa, Ambati Rayudu, Suresh Raina, Irfan Pathan, Yusuf Pathan, Harbhajan Singh, Piyush Chawla, Stuart Binny, Gurkeerat Maan, Vinay Kumar, Siddarth Kaul, Varun Aaron, Abhimanyu Mithun, Pawan Negi.

Pakistan Champions (WCL 2025): Mohammad Hafeez (captain), Imad Wasim, Shahid Afridi, Shoaib Malik, Sarfaraz Ahmed, Sharjeel Khan, Wahab Riaz, Asif Ali, Kamran Akmal, Aamer Yamin, Sohail Khan, Sohail Tanvir.

With heritage and headlines on the line, this India-Pakistan Champions clash promises fireworks on every ball. No matter who wins, fans will remember it as a classic chapter in their enduring rivalry – a battle of pride, passion, and cricketing prowess.

See you all at the Edgbaston Cricket Ground on July 18, 2025.