WCL 2025: India Set Up Semi-Final Showdown with Pakistan

India Champions kept their semi-final hopes alive in dramatic fashion, storming into the final four of the World Championship of Legends (WCL) 2025 after a crucial win against West Indies Champions. The high-stakes result has now set up a mouth-watering semi-final clash between arch-rivals India and Pakistan on July 31 in Birmingham.

India Seal Last Spot

Facing a must-win situation on Tuesday at Grace Road in Leicester, India not only needed a victory but had to chase 145 runs inside 14.1 overs to qualify on net run rate. Rising to the challenge, Stuart Binny smashed a quickfire fifty, while skipper Yuvraj Singh anchored the chase with calm precision. Together, they guided India to the target in just 13.2 overs — sealing a semi-final spot in style.

This win pushed India ahead of both England and West Indies on net run rate, despite all three teams securing just one win each during the group stage. India’s superior run rate proved decisive.

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Blockbuster Semi-Final Awaits

The semi-final stage now promises intense cricket action. The first semi-final will pit India Champions against Pakistan Champions, reigniting one of cricket’s fiercest rivalries. The much-anticipated clash is scheduled for July 31 in Birmingham.

Ironically, the two sides never faced each other during the group stage, as India refused to play against Pakistan earlier in the tournament. That match was cancelled, and points were not awarded. Now, however, the knockout format has left both teams with no option but to go head-to-head.

Pakistan Dominate Group Stage

Pakistan Champions enter the semi-final with strong momentum. They topped the group stage with four wins in five matches and an impressive net run rate of +2.494. Their all-round performances and squad depth have made them a formidable side throughout the tournament.

Led by former stars like Shahid Afridi and Mohammad Hafeez, Pakistan have consistently delivered with bat and ball. Their unbeaten run was only broken once, and they will be keen to maintain dominance as they face India.

South Africa and Australia to Clash in Second Semi-Final

The second semi-final, also on July 31 in Birmingham, will see South Africa Champions face off against Australia Champions. South Africa secured second place in the group stage with four wins, just behind Pakistan. Australia, who had a mixed tournament with two wins from five matches, finished third.

South Africa’s squad, packed with power hitters and seasoned bowlers, has looked sharp in all departments. Australia, on the other hand, have relied on moments of brilliance but will need consistency to overcome the Proteas in the knockout game.

England and West Indies Fall Short

Despite flashes of talent, England and West Indies Champions failed to make it to the final four. Both teams managed only one win and were edged out on net run rate by India. For the legends representing these sides, the tournament ended in disappointment, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the T20 format.

All Eyes on July 31

With the semi-final line-up now confirmed, cricket fans are bracing for a thrilling finish to the WCL 2025. The clash between India and Pakistan is expected to draw massive global attention, reviving a historic rivalry that extends beyond the field. The second semi-final promises equal excitement, with South Africa and Australia both eyeing a place in the final.

The World Championship of Legends has already delivered on nostalgia, excitement, and competitive cricket. With two high-stakes matches set for the same day, July 31 could go down as one of the most memorable days in this year’s cricket calendar.