'Terror and Cricket can't coexist': EaseMyTrip drops sponsorship of India-Pakistan WCL semi-final

EaseMyTrip on Wednesday announced its decision to withdraw sponsorship from the India vs Pakistan semi-final match in the ongoing World Championship of Legends (WCL) 2025. The company stated that it cannot support an event that involves sporting engagement with a country it believes promotes terrorism. EaseMyTrip was one of the sponsors for the WCL tournament.

The announcement was made by co-founder Nishant Pitti in a post on X, where he wrote, “Terror and cricket cannot go hand in hand. @EaseMyTrip, we stand with India. We cannot support any event that attempts to normalise relations with a country that promotes terrorism.” He also congratulated the Indian team, saying, “Outstanding performance in the WCL, you’ve made the nation proud.”

Pitti further stated, “The people of the nation have spoken, and we hear them. EaseMyTrip will not be associated with the India vs Pakistan match in WCL.” In another post, he added, “Nation first, business later. Always. Jai Hind.”

The decision comes amid heightened tensions between India and Pakistan following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. In response, India imposed multiple diplomatic restrictions, including the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty. On May 7, India carried out 'Operation Sindoor' and struck nine terror infrastructure targets across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

Pakistan attempted military retaliation, but Indian armed forces and air defence systems responded. India also targeted Pakistani military airbases. A ceasefire understanding between the two nations was reached on May 10. Earlier in the tournament, India had opted out of playing Pakistan in the league stage due to ongoing national tensions. The WCL organisers have not yet issued any official update on whether the semi-final will proceed as planned.