Pakistan Champions have withdrawn from the ongoing World Championship of Legends (WCL) Season 3 after the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) refused to issue No-Objection Certificates (NOCs) to the team’s players.
Team owner Kamil Khan had formally asked the PCB to reconsider its decision and remained in discussions over Pakistan Champions’ participation. However, the board maintained its position, ruling the players out of the tournament.
“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,” the team said in a statement.
The franchise added that it respected the PCB’s authority but was disappointed that its players would miss the tournament. It also thanked the players, supporters and fans for their patience and continued support.
The dispute dates back to the previous WCL season in August 2025, when India Champions players refused to play their scheduled matches against Pakistan Champions amid political tensions. The boycott also affected the highly anticipated semifinal between the two teams.
The PCB later criticized the WCL management over its handling of the matter, accusing the organizers of “double standards,” political interference and prioritizing commercial interests over the spirit of the game.
Following the controversy, the board imposed a blanket ban on future participation in the league and retained the same stance ahead of the October 2026 edition.
As a result, Pakistan Champions players, including captain Shahid Afridi, were unable to travel or take part in the competition. The team was also absent from the tournament’s trophy unveiling ceremony.
Pakistan Champions have been one of the most consistent teams in WCL history, finishing runners-up in both previous editions.
In the inaugural 2024 season, India Champions chased Pakistan’s 156/6 with five balls remaining to win the final by five wickets.
Pakistan again reached the final in 2025 but lost to South Africa Champions by 42 runs. South Africa posted 184/5 before restricting Pakistan to 142/9.
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