Sunrisers Leeds Face Backlash Over Signing Pakistani Cricketer Abrar Ahmed

Sunrisers Leeds, owned by an Indian media group linked to IPL's Sunrisers Hyderabad, faced criticism after signing Pakistani spinner Abrar Ahmed for approximately Rs 2.3 crore in The Hundred 2026 auction. Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar condemned the move, arguing that payments to Pakistani players indirectly fund activities harming Indian soldiers and civilians, citing past terror attacks as context. While coach Daniel Vettori acknowledged considering other Pakistani players, Gavaskar urged the franchise to reconsider, reflecting ongoing sensitivities around India-Pakistan sporting ties.