A growing controversy surrounding the signing of Pakistan spinner Abrar Ahmed at The Hundred 2026 auction has taken a new turn after former IPL chairman Lalit Modi publicly reached out to Kavya Maran, co-owner of the Sunrisers franchise.
The move comes amid intense backlash on social media and criticism from prominent voices in Indian cricket.
What Triggered the Controversy
The issue began after Sunrisers Leeds, an Indian-owned franchise, signed Abrar Ahmed for £190,000 during The Hundred auction. The decision sparked criticism from sections of Indian fans, largely due to the absence of Pakistan players in Indian-run leagues over the past decade.
Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar was among the strongest critics, questioning the implications of signing a Pakistani player in the current geopolitical context.
Lalit Modi’s ‘Call Me’ Remark
Amid the uproar, Lalit Modi took to social media and posted a message directed at Kavya Maran, suggesting his experience in handling high-profile cricket ventures.
“I know a thing or two about managing optics and building empires. Call me,” Modi wrote, referencing the controversy and the reported ₹2.34 crore investment in the player.
His remark quickly gained traction online, adding another layer to the ongoing debate.
ECB’s Position on Player Selection
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), which organises The Hundred, has maintained that franchises must not discriminate based on nationality. The board has previously indicated it would take strict action if such biases influence team selections.
Abrar Ahmed was among two Pakistan players picked in the auction, alongside Usman Tariq, marking a rare instance of their inclusion in a league involving Indian-owned teams.
Broader Context: India-Pakistan Cricket Ties
Cricketing relations between India and Pakistan have remained limited to international tournaments organised by the ICC, particularly after the 2008 Mumbai attacks. Since then, Indian franchises have largely avoided signing Pakistani players.
Gavaskar, in his remarks, linked the backlash to this long-standing stance, stating that such decisions could carry wider emotional and political implications.
Debate Over Sports and Politics
The controversy has reignited the debate over whether sports and politics should intersect, especially in franchise-based global leagues. While some argue for inclusivity and merit-based selection, others believe national sentiment must also be considered.
A Developing Story
With strong reactions from fans, former players, and now administrators like Lalit Modi, the issue continues to evolve. It remains to be seen whether the franchise or governing bodies will respond further to the growing criticism.
