Pakistan Champions pull out of WCL season 3 amid last-minute setback

Pakistan Champions have withdrawn from the ongoing edition of the World Championship of Legends (WCL) after the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) upheld its decision to deny No Objection Certificates (NOCs) to players named in the squad for the marquee tournament.

The move appears to be linked to India Champions' decision to pull out of their semifinal against Pakistan Champions during the second season of the WCL on July 30, 2025. Pakistan advanced to the final via a walkover but were beaten by the AB de Villiers-led South Africa Champions. Following the semifinal cancellation, the tournament organisers issued a 50% refund to fans who had purchased tickets for the fixture.

"Pakistan Champions regret to confirm that the team will not be able to participate in the ongoing World Championship of Legends (WCL), following the Pakistan Cricket Board's decision to uphold its refusal to issue the required NOC," Pakistan Champions said in a statement.

"We respect the PCB's authority and its decision, while naturally being disappointed that our players will not have the opportunity to represent Pakistan Champions at this global gathering of cricketing legends.

"We sincerely thank our players, supporters and fans for their patience, understanding and continued support."

The statement released by Pakistan Champions also revealed that team owner Kamil Khan formally requested the PCB to reconsider its stance, but the cricket governing body in Pakistan didn't budge. 

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The sporting ties between India and Pakistan have taken a hit following the terror attack in Jammu & Kashmir's Pahalgam in April 2025 and the kinetic conflict that ensued. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has maintained a no-handshake policy in games against Pakistan in both men's and women's cricket.

Having finished as runners-up in both editions, Pakistan have been one of the most consistent teams in the WCL.