Legendary cricketer Sunil Gavaskar has slammed SunRisers Leeds for signing Pakistani players, arguing the move has broader financial and national-security implications.
Gavaskar’s criticism centers on the flow of money: fees paid to Pakistani players ultimately contribute to their government’s revenue through income tax, which he contends may fund military expenditures.
“Whether it is an Indian entity or an overseas subsidiary making the payment, if the owner is Indian, then they are indirectly contributing to Indian casualties. It’s as simple as that,” Gavaskar wrote.
He highlighted that Indian franchises have traditionally avoided Pakistani players since the 2008 Mumbai attacks, noting that this caution reflects both public sentiment and national responsibility.
“Although belated, the realization that payments to Pakistani players indirectly fund arms that can harm Indian soldiers and civilians is why Indian entities refrain from signing them,” Gavaskar explained.
Gavaskar also pointed out the difference in perspective between coaches and owners. While New Zealander Daniel Vettori, head coach of SunRisers Leeds, may not fully grasp the issue, the responsibility, Gavaskar insists, lies squarely with the Indian ownership.
“Is winning a tournament in a format that no other country plays in more important than Indian lives?” he asked.
The ECB’s Warning
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) had already cautioned franchises linked to the IPL about fair selection and anti-discrimination rules. While the board cannot dictate signings, it stressed that selection decisions must comply with regulatory guidelines.
Franchises found in violation could be referred to the independent Cricket Regulator or face sanctions. The move underscores how political tensions between India and Pakistan continue to influence franchise decisions, even in international leagues like The Hundred.
Auction Controversy
SunRisers Leeds signed Pakistani spinner Abrar Ahmed on March 12 for GBP 190,000 (around ₹2.34 crore), outbidding Trent Rockets. The franchise, owned by India’s Sun Group led by Kalanithi Maran, was represented at the auction by CEO Kavya Maran and head coach Daniel Vettori.
The team will be captained by England T20I skipper Harry Brook. This marks the first time in years that an IPL-linked franchise has signed a Pakistani international, sparking significant backlash in India, including calls for a boycott of the SunRisers brand.
A Landmark Signing With Mixed Reactions
The controversy highlights the growing influence of IPL ownership in The Hundred. Four of the tournament’s eight franchises—including Manchester Super Giants, MI London, Southern Brave, and SunRisers Leeds—are now at least partially owned by entities that control IPL teams.
For Gavaskar, the matter transcends cricket. He frames it as a question of conscience, arguing that SunRisers Leeds’ decision was a misstep that prioritizes trophies over national sentiment and safety.
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