Controversial Signing: Pakistan's Abrar Ahmed Joins Sunrisers Leeds

Sunrisers Leeds, a franchise in The Hundred, sparked controversy by signing Pakistani cricketer Abrar Ahmed. The move drew backlash due to past comments made by Ahmed, amid scrutiny over IPL-owned franchises bidding for Pakistan players. BCCI stated it cannot intervene in foreign league affairs.

In a surprising move, Sunrisers Leeds has signed Pakistani leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed for £190,000 in The Hundred cricket league's auction, stirring significant controversy. This marks the first time a Pakistan cricketer has been signed by a team owned by Indian interests, following years of political and sporting tensions between India and Pakistan.

The acquisition was met with criticism, particularly on social media, due to past comments attributed to Ahmed that allegedly mocked India's armed forces during last year's Operation Sindoor. Despite the outcry, BCCI Vice-President Rajeev Shukla clarified that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) cannot intervene, as the matter pertains to a foreign league.

The Sunrisers Leeds franchise, previously the Northern Superchargers, is owned by the Indian media conglomerate Sun TV, which completed the purchase from the England and Wales Cricket Board and Yorkshire. The contentious signing showcases ongoing complexities surrounding cricket diplomacy, especially as IPL franchise investors are increasingly involved in global T20 leagues.

(With inputs from agencies.)