LONDON: The inclusion of Pakistani cricketer Abrar Ahmed in the Sunrisers Leeds squad has triggered widespread criticism of the team’s owner, Kavya Maran.
Yesterday, the IPL franchise Sunrisers Hyderabad owner purchased Abrar Ahmed for £190,000 to play in The Hundred for Sunrisers Leeds.
The franchise’s official account was temporarily suspended amid the controversy.
Abrar Ahmed was purchased by Sunrisers Hyderabad for £190,000 (USD 255,000) to play in The Hundred. He became the first Pakistani player to be signed by an Indian-owned team in the competition.
The decision provoked strong reactions on social media, particularly in India. Critics targeted Kavya Maran, questioning the signing of a Pakistani player amid current national sentiments.
Debates over the inclusion continue online. Some users called for restrictions on the Sunrisers Hyderabad franchise.
Authorities have not commented on the social media backlash or account suspension.
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The incident highlights the sensitivity of cross-border player signings in cricket leagues with passionate fan bases.
