Can't you replace the numeric link, with "Bye" or "Failed to Join" or "Forfeit" , well you get the point :P
The game link lets me debug issues quickly. So I'd rather leave it there :P It's not too different from a game won by boot. When you click on a game which has been deleted you know why :)
*User opens MD ladder*
*User clicks top player to check games* (or any player to prepare or check out template or recent finished games or whatever)
*User gets game deleted*
*User repeats*
*User gets annoyed* (User Thinks, does this ladder even work?)
I mean, sure you can keep the gameID there, just don't make me waste time opening deleted games :/ All that is needed is some small indicator.