Gavaskar Condemns Indian-Owned Franchise for Signing Pakistan Spinner Abrar Ahmed
The acquisition of Pakistan spinner Abrar Ahmed by Sunrisers Leeds, a franchise owned by the Sun TV Network under Kavya Maran, has ignited a significant controversy in India. This development has drawn a sharp rebuke from legendary Indian batter Sunil Gavaskar, who has called for Indian-owned teams to avoid signing Pakistan players, citing potential indirect contributions to harm against India.
Background of the Controversial Signing
Abrar Ahmed was purchased for £190,000 during the inaugural men's auction of The Hundred in London, marking him as the first Pakistani cricketer to be selected by an Indian-owned team in this competition. The decision has triggered a strong online backlash, with the franchise's social media accounts facing heavy criticism and even a temporary suspension due to the uproar.
Gavaskar's Strong Stance on the Issue
In his column for Mid-day, Gavaskar expressed that the outrage is understandable, referencing the long-standing stance of Indian cricket since the 2008 Mumbai attacks, after which Pakistan players were effectively barred from the Indian Premier League. He wrote, "The furore created by the acquisition of a Pakistani player by the Indian owner of a franchise in The Hundred is hardly surprising."
Gavaskar elaborated on his argument, stating that payments to Pakistan players ultimately flow back to their government through taxes. He explained, "The realisation that the fees that they pay to a Pakistani player, who then pays income tax to his government which buys arms and weapons, indirectly contributes to the deaths of Indian soldiers and civilians is making Indian entities refrain from even considering having Pakistani artistes and sportspersons."
He emphasized that regardless of whether the payment originates from an Indian company or an overseas subsidiary, the responsibility rests with the owner. Gavaskar questioned, "If the owner is Indian then he or she is contributing to the Indian casualties. It's as simple as that," adding a poignant query about whether success in a franchise tournament should outweigh national sentiment.
Potential Fan Reactions and Boycott Threats
Gavaskar also warned of possible public demonstrations by Indian fans in response to this signing. He predicted, "It won't be a surprise that for every game that this team plays there will be massive demonstrations by Indian fans protesting at this hard-to-believe buying," suggesting that crowds might even boycott matches despite the presence of star players.
Defense from Sunrisers Leeds and BCCI's Position
On the other side, Sunrisers Leeds head coach Daniel Vettori defended the decision as purely based on cricketing merits. He explained that the franchise opted for Abrar after missing out on England leg-spinner Adil Rashid during the auction. Vettori highlighted Abrar's variations and ability to strike during powerplays as key factors, particularly for matches at Headingley.
Meanwhile, Rajeev Shukla, vice-president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), clarified that the BCCI cannot intervene in this matter since it involves a foreign league. He stated that the final decision rests solely with the franchise itself, underscoring the autonomy of such cross-border cricketing engagements.
This incident has sparked a broader debate on the intersection of sports, politics, and national security, with implications for future player signings in international leagues.
