Pakistan-born English cricketer fumes at Gavaskar’s take on Abrar Ahmed

The Pakistan-born cricketer challenged Sunil Gavaskar’s stance by questioning whether he had taken a similar position in his professional commitments.

Recent reports said that former India legend Sunil Gavaskar wasn’t happy with the Sunrisers Leeds signing Pakistani player Abrar Ahmed. He has come under sharp criticism from Pakistan-born former England cricketer AzeemRafiq after he gave controversial remarks on Abrar Ahmed’s signing by Sunrisers Leeds in The Hundred 2026 auction.

What did Sunil Gavaskar say on Abrar Ahmed’s signing in Sunrisers Leeds?

Writing in his column in Mid-day, Sunil Gavaskar questioned the decision of the Indian-owned franchise to sign the Pakistan mystery spinner for £190,000. He argued that the backlash surrounding this decision was understandable given the historical context and sensitivities attached to cricketing ties between the two nations. He even suggested that payments made to Pakistani cricketers could indirectly contribute to the country’s state machinery through taxation, thereby raising broader concerns over the implications of such financial transactions. He also questioned whether sporting success in overseas leagues should take precedence over such considerations, particularly for Indian-owned entities.

AzeemRafiq reacts to Gavaskar’s criticism of signing Abrar Ahmed.

The remarks, however, didn’t go down well with Rafiq, who reacted strongly on social media. The former Yorkshire off-spinner labelled Gavaskar’s comments as “vile” and “absolutely ridiculous,” calling for them to be condemned. Taking to X, Rafiq wrote, “This is absolutely ridiculous and should be condemned. How are these comments acceptable? I don’t care how many runs you have scored. Vile stuff from Gavaskar.” Rafiq further challenged Gavaskar’s stance by questioning whether the former India captain had taken a similar position in his professional commitments, particularly during India-Pakistan matches, where he has been part of the commentary panel.

The controversy comes amid an already heated online reaction to Abrar Ahmed’s signing, with sections of fans debating the appropriateness of the move.