Harbhajan Singh At Pakistani Restaurant? Viral Video Sparks Controversy Amid WCL 2025 Row

Former Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh has become the focus of a heated social media debate after a video surfaced allegedly showing him dining at a restaurant named Lal Qela in Birmingham-claimed by users to be a Pakistani establishment. The authenticity and timing of the video, however, remain unverified.

The controversy erupted amid the cancellation of the India-Pakistan match in the ongoing World Championship of Legends (WCL) 2025 series. Harbhajan Singh had earlier boycotted the match in protest against the Pahalgam terror attack, which killed 26 people. With tensions running high and disagreements surrounding the fixture, the match was eventually called off.

As the video of Harbhajan at the restaurant began circulating online, social media platforms were flooded with mixed reactions. Many users questioned the context and timing, especially given the backdrop of his public stance and the emotional sentiments attached to the cancelled fixture.

Internet Reacts to Viral Clip Amid WCL Turmoil

The India-Pakistan clash, initially scheduled as part of the WCL, was scrapped after growing objections from players and sponsors. The tournament organisers later issued an apology, stating their intent was to relive "happy memories" through cricket, but acknowledged that the fixture had "unintentionally caused discomfort" to Indian cricket veterans.

The India Champions team, led by Yuvraj Singh, boasted an impressive lineup, including Harbhajan Singh, Shikhar Dhawan, Suresh Raina, Yusuf Pathan, Irfan Pathan, Robin Uthappa, and Varun Aaron. However, multiple players withdrew from the fixture citing the "prevailing geopolitical situation."

Shikhar Dhawan reiterated his stance in a strongly-worded post on social media, saying:

"Jo kadam 11 May ko liya, uspe aaj bhi waise hi khada hoon. Mera desh mere liye sab kuch hai, aur desh se badhkar kuch nahi hota."

The Pakistan squad, captained by Shahid Afridi, featured well-known players like Younis Khan, Wahab Riaz, Sohail Tanvir, and Kamran Akmal. But with major Indian players withdrawing and sponsors such as EaseMyTrip refusing to support any match involving Pakistan, the fixture's cancellation was seen as unavoidable.

Despite no confirmation on the video's date or context, the clip has stirred emotions online, particularly as national sentiment continues to run high following the Pahalgam tragedy.