Shikhar Dhawan threatens legal action after World T20 Continent Cup organisers add him to Asia Warriors squad without consent

Former India opener Shikhar Dhawan discovered that his name had been included in the Asia Warriors squad for the World T20 Continent Cup without his knowledge or permission. The tournament is scheduled to take place in Hong Kong in December and features four franchise teams representing different continents: Asia Warriors, Europe Champions, Africa Lions, and North America Eagles. Dhawan's name appeared in the official team roster alongside other players, prompting him to issue a public statement on October 13, 2026.

Dhawan's statement on unauthorised squad inclusion

The inclusion of his name in the squad announcement without any prior consultation or agreement from the player triggered an immediate response from Dhawan. He took to social media to deny his participation and warn against relying on unauthorised announcements.

"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," Dhawan wrote on X. (Formerly Twitter)

The former Indian opener further requested that media outlets and his supporters disregard any unauthorised announcements regarding his participation.

"I request the media and my fans to not report or rely on any unauthorised announcements. Thank you for your continued love and support," he further added.

The Asia Warriors squad also included former India cricketers Rahul Sharma and Gurkeerat Singh Mann, along with international players such as Iftikhar Ahmed and Sohail Tanvir from Pakistan. Abhimanyu Mithun was also listed among the team's members. Dhawan's name appeared alongside these players in the official announcement, but unlike them, he had not agreed to participate in the tournament.

Organisers confirm removal from Asia Warriors squad

Following Dhawan's public statement and legal warning, the tournament organisers responded by confirming that he would not be part of the Asia Warriors squad. The organisers cited "scheduling conflicts and certain technical considerations" as reasons for his removal from the squad.

After the league stage, the top two teams will face off in Qualifier 1, with the winner advancing directly to the final. Meanwhile, the third- and fourth-placed teams will clash in the Eliminator, with the loser being knocked out of the competition.