Former India opener Shikhar Dhawan has found himself at the centre of a controversy after reports linked him to the upcoming World T20 Continent Cup. The left-handed batter was reportedly set to represent Asia Warriors, a team featuring several Pakistani cricketers. Regarding the controversy, Dhawan has now opener up regarding any involvement in the tournament.
Shikhar Dhawan breaks silence on viral reports
Dhawan addressed the controversy through a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, making it clear that he had neither authorised the announcement nor agreed to participate in the competition. The former India international also urged media organisations and supporters not to believe or circulate unverified information about his reported association with the tournament.
The controversy emerged after his name appeared on the reported list of participants for Asia Warriors. The team was said to include several former and current Pakistani cricketers, making the Indian batter’s alleged inclusion a talking point among cricket followers. Dhawan, however, has categorically rejected the reports, clarifying that the organisers had used his name without his knowledge or consent.
“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,” wrote Dhawan on X.
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…
— Shikhar Dhawan (@SDhawan25) October 13, 2026
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Other Indian cricketers also named in Asia Warriors squad
Dhawan was not the only former Indian cricketer reportedly listed in the Asia Warriors squad. Former India players Rahul Sharma, Gurkeerat Singh Mann and Abhimanyu Mithun were also included among the team’s members. The 24-member squad reportedly featured several Pakistani cricketers, including Sohail Tanvir, Iftikhar Ahmed and Muhammad Imran Khan, among others.
The reported combination of Indian and Pakistani players attracted attention, particularly because of the political sensitivities surrounding cricketing associations between the two countries. Dhawan’s name appearing alongside players from Pakistan added another dimension to the discussion.
Notably, the reports also attracted interest because of Dhawan’s previously expressed position during the heightened tensions between India and Pakistan in 2025. Following the Pahalgam terror attack and the developments surrounding Operation Sindoor, Dhawan had maintained a strong stance against Pakistan. His vocal position during that period made the suggestion that he would join a team featuring Pakistani cricketers particularly surprising to many supporters.
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