Shikhar Dhawan vows legal action against Cricket franchise league, says name used without consent

PTC News Desk: Former India opener Shikhar Dhawan has threatened legal action against the organisers of the World T20 Continent Cup after his name appeared on the tournament’s list of participants.

In a social media post on Tuesday, Dhawan criticised the organisers and urged fans not to believe or share false reports about his participation. Reports had suggested that the former Punjab Kings captain would play for Asia Warriors, a team featuring several Pakistani cricketers. However, Dhawan firmly denied any connection with the tournament.

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."

Dhawan was not the only former Indian cricketer named in the Asia Warriors squad. Former India players Rahul Sharma, Gurkeerat Singh Mann and Abhimanyu Mithun were also listed as team members. The 24-member Asia Warriors squad reportedly included several Pakistani players, such as Sohail Tanvir, Iftikhar Ahmed and Muhammad Imran Khan.

Dhawan’s reported inclusion in a team featuring Pakistani cricketers surprised many fans. During Operation Sindoor in 2025, he had taken a firm public stand against Pakistan and had spoken out during the tensions following the Pahalgam terror attack.

Successful career across formats

The former India opener clarified that he had not given permission to the organisers to use his name in connection with the tournament. He said his team would take the necessary legal action to resolve the matter.

Dhawan also urged journalists and fans to verify information before reporting or believing claims about his participation. His statement aims to put an end to the confusion surrounding his alleged involvement in the competition.

Dhawan was an important member of the Indian cricket team, particularly in One-Day Internationals (ODIs). He played 167 ODIs, scoring 6,793 runs at an average of 44.1, including 17 centuries and 39 half-centuries.

In Test cricket, he scored 2,315 runs in 34 matches at an average of 40.6. His record includes seven centuries and five half-centuries.