BCCI Responds to Controversy Over Sunrisers Signing Pakistani Spinner Abrar Ahmed

The BCCI has responded to the controversy surrounding the Sunrisers' signing of Pakistani spinner Abrar Ahmed for The Hundred. Vice-president Rajeev Shukla clarified that the board cannot intervene in foreign leagues. The decision has sparked significant backlash on social media, with fans expressing their discontent. Despite the criticism, the Sunrisers remain firm in their choice, which has raised questions about the treatment of Pakistani players in Indian franchises. This situation echoes previous controversies faced by other teams, highlighting the complex relationship between cricket and national sentiments.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 13, 2026, 15:06 IST

BCCI's Stance on Sunrisers' Controversial Signing

Rajeev Shukla, the vice-president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), has commented on the backlash faced by the Sunrisers franchise after they signed Pakistani spinner Abrar Ahmed for the upcoming season of The Hundred. Shukla emphasized that the BCCI has no authority over decisions made in foreign leagues, stating, 'This is not at all concerned with the IPL. It's an overseas league. This is not in our domain. We cannot do anything. They have to take a call.'

The Sunrisers, owned by Sun TV, have been criticized on social media for their decision to acquire Abrar during the players' auction, which has sparked public outrage due to national sentiments. The team's official account on X (formerly Twitter) has been suspended amid the controversy, and owner Kavya Maran is facing significant backlash.

Abrar, currently ranked as the World No. 3 T20I bowler, was signed for £190,000 (approximately USD 255,000). The team's head coach, Daniel Vettori, revealed that they targeted Abrar after losing Adil Rashid to another franchise. Despite plans for Usman Tariq, the team felt the need for a spinner was fulfilled with Abrar's signing.

Since the investment by Indian owners in four teams of The Hundred in October 2025, there have been speculations about a shadow ban on Pakistani players in Indian franchises. However, the signing of Abrar has contradicted these rumors, as he and Tariq were the only Pakistani players sold in the men's auction. Despite this, many fans in India are urging the management to reconsider Abrar's position on the team.

Earlier this year, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) faced similar backlash for signing Bangladeshi pacer Mustafizur Rahman, especially after violent incidents in Bangladesh. The BCCI intervened, leading to Rahman's removal from the team. Following Bangladesh's refusal to participate in the T20 World Cup, Scotland replaced them in the competition, which was ultimately won by India.