The Sunrisers Leeds franchise’s signing of Abrar Ahmed has drawn sharp criticism from a prominent Indian cricket figure, highlighting lingering sensitivities over cross‑border sporting relations, officials and sports commentators said.
Abrar Ahmed, a Pakistan international spinner, was acquired by the English The Hundred team during its player auction ahead of the 2026 season, with Sunrisers Leeds reportedly winning his services for £190,000 following strong interest from other franchises.
Former Indian cricket great Sunil Gavaskar criticised the move, arguing that the participation of a Pakistani player in an Indian‑owned franchise club indirectly undermines national sentiments and could be seen as controversial given the historical political tensions between India and Pakistan. Gavaskar’s comments reflect longstanding sensitivities in the region over players from the two countries featuring in each other’s leagues.
Abrar Ahmed’s signing by an Indian‑linked franchise marks one of the rare occasions in recent years that a Pakistani cricketer has been signed by an entity substantially connected to Indian cricket investors, given that Pakistani players have been absent from the Indian Premier League since 2009 due to diplomatic tensions.
The move has provoked debate among fans and commentators alike, illustrating how sporting decisions can quickly intersect with broader regional sentiments and historical rivalries.
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