Sunil Gavaskar defends stance amid backlash over Abrar Ahmed signing controversy
March 22, 2026: Indian cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar has landed in the middle of a major controversy following his sharp remarks against Indian-owned franchises signing Pakistani players. The debate intensified after a team linked to Sunrisers Hyderabad picked up Abrar Ahmed in an overseas league. Gavaskar, in a recent column, questioned such decisions, arguing that financial transactions involving Pakistani players could indirectly support systems harmful to India, sparking widespread criticism and debate.
The backlash grew after critics pointed out Gavaskar’s appearance on a cricket show alongside Pakistani legends Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Responding to the allegations of double standards, Gavaskar clarified that his participation was not a paid assignment. He explained that such appearances were part of official broadcasting panels, where revenue is distributed among cricket boards through global bodies, distancing himself from any direct financial involvement.
Despite the criticism, Gavaskar has stood firm on his position. He reiterated that Indian entities, even those operating overseas, should refrain from hiring Pakistani players. The controversy traces back to the signing of Abrar Ahmed for a significant amount in a foreign league, a move defended by coaches as purely cricketing. However, Gavaskar maintains that decisions like these should also consider broader geopolitical sensitivities, keeping the debate around sports and politics very much alive.