Former India cricketer Harbhajan Singh found himself at the centre of a social media storm after an alleged video emerged of him visiting a restaurant by the name of Lal Qela in Birmingham which social media users claim to be of Pakistani eatery.
Later reports emerged that Harbhjan SIngh had boycotted the match in wake of Pahalgam attack. The match was eventually called off due to ongoing tensions and disagreements over the fixture. The video of the veteran off-spinner at the eatery prompted a wave of reactions from users.
(The aunthenicity of the date of the video could not be veirfied)
Internet reacts to Harbhajan singh's video
India vs Pakistan match called off
The India-Pakistan match, scheduled to take place as part of the WCL series, was abruptly cancelled following mounting pressure from players and sponsors. The tournament organisers later issued a public apology, stating that their intent had been to recreate "happy memories" for fans, but acknowledged that the fixture had “unintentionally caused discomfort” to Indian cricket legends.
India Champions, led by Yuvraj Singh, featured a star-studded lineup including Shikhar Dhawan, Harbhajan Singh, Suresh Raina, Yusuf and Irfan Pathan, Robin Uthappa, and Varun Aaron. Several players, including Dhawan, had publicly distanced themselves from the match, citing the “prevailing geopolitical situation.”
Shikhar Dhawan reaffirmed his position on social media, posting a statement that read:
“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 Pakistan team, captained by Shahid Afridi, included a host of familiar faces like Younis Khan, Sohail Tanvir, Wahab Riaz, and Kamran Akmal. However, the fixture’s cancellation was seen as inevitable after key Indian players began pulling out and sponsors like EaseMyTrip announced they would not support any match involving Pakistan.
