Sunil Gavaskar, former India cricket captain, has launched a scathing attack on Sunrisers Leeds for signing Pakistani spinner Abrar Ahmed at the Hundred auction. Gavaskar claims the deal 'indirectly contributes to the deaths of Indian soldiers and civilians' by providing revenue to Pakistan's government. His comments represent the most high-profile criticism of the franchise's decision.

Gavaskar's remarks highlight the ongoing political tensions between India and Pakistan that have prevented IPL teams from signing Pakistani players since 2008. The Sun Group, which owns both Sunrisers Leeds and Sunrisers Hyderabad, broke this unspoken boycott by securing Abrar at the auction. Gavaskar argues that fees paid to Pakistani players ultimately fund weapons purchases that harm Indians.

The 76-year-old cricket legend, who was the first to reach 10,000 Test runs, has worked as a BBC commentator since retiring in 1987. His intervention demonstrates the strength of feeling among some Indian cricket figures about the signing. While some social media backlash occurred, Gavaskar's criticism suggests deeper concerns within the Indian cricket establishment about financial ties to Pakistan through sports.