Shikhar Dhawan Angry, Warns Of Legal Step After Cricket Tournament Names Him In Team With Pakistan Players

Former India opener Shikhar Dhawan on Tuesday vowed to take legal action against the organisers of the World T20 Continent Cup after his name was included in the tournament's list of participants. Taking to social media, Dhawan slammed the organisers and urged fans not to be misled by or circulate any false reports regarding his participation. The former Punjab Kings captain was reportedly set to represent Asia Warriors in the competition, a team that also features several players from Pakistan. However, Dhawan has categorically denied any association with the tournament and distanced himself from the event.

Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Dhawan wrote, "I have come across my name as a participant in the World T20 Continent Cup. My name has been used by the organisers without my knowledge or permission, and my team will be taking the appropriate legal steps to address this. I request the media and my fans to not report or rely on any unauthorised announcements. Thank you for your continued love and support."

I have come across my name as a participant in the World T20 Continent Cup. My name has been used by the organisers without my knowledge or permission, and my team will be taking the appropriate legal steps to address this. I request the media and my fans to not report or rely on any unauthorised announcements. Thank you for your continued love and support.

— Shikhar Dhawan (@SDhawan25) October 13, 2026

Interestingly, Dhawan was not the only Indian cricketer named in the Asia Warriors squad. Former India players Rahul Sharma, Gurkeerat Singh Mann, and Abhimanyu Mithun were also listed among the team's members.

Several Pakistani cricketers were included in the 24-member Asia Warriors squad as well, including Sohail Tanvir, Iftikhar Ahmed, and Muhammad Imran Khan, among others.

News of Dhawan's reported inclusion in a team featuring Pakistani players came as a surprise to many fans. The left-handed batter had maintained a strong stance against Pakistan during Operation Sindoor in 2025 and was particularly vocal during the heightened tensions that followed the Pahalgam terror attack.

"India takes a stand against terrorism. Bharat Mata Ki Jai," Dhawan had tweeted. "Ghatiya desh ne fir apna ghatiyapan poori duniya ke aage dikha diya. #Pakistan #Ceasefire," Dhawan had written in another tweet.

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