Lalit Modi Offers Support to SRH Amid Controversy Over Abrar Ahmed's Purchase
Lalit Modi's Cryptic Message to SRH Owner
Lalit Modi has seemingly reached out to Kavya Maran, the owner of Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), following the criticism she has received for acquiring Pakistani spinner Abrar Ahmed during the The Hundred 2026 auction. The former IPL president offered his assistance in a cryptic post, stating, "Investing 2.34 crore on a Pakistani player when the fans are already on edge? I know a thing or two about managing optics and building empires. Call me," he shared on X. Abrar is set to represent Sunrisers Leeds, SRH's sister franchise, and was the 10th most expensive player in the auction. It remains uncertain if Kavya will reach out to Lalit for guidance and what solutions he might propose. Notably, four Indian businessmen involved in IPL have stakes in The Hundred teams, with SRH acquiring a complete stake in the Yorkshire-based Northern Superchargers. Additionally, the SRH management owns a team in the SA20 league.
Sunil Gavaskar Critiques SRH's Decision
Sunil Gavaskar Critiques SRH's Decision
Indian cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar has criticized SRH for their decision to sign Abrar, suggesting that the earnings he receives from The Hundred could indirectly support the loss of Indian lives. In his column for a media outlet, Gavaskar remarked, "The uproar surrounding the acquisition of a Pakistani player by an Indian franchise owner is not unexpected. Since the Mumbai attacks in November 2008, IPL franchise owners have largely overlooked Pakistani players." He further explained that the realization that payments to Pakistani players contribute to their government’s military funding, which can lead to the deaths of Indian soldiers and civilians, has led Indian entities to avoid engaging with Pakistani artists and athletes.
Future of Abrar Ahmed in The Hundred
Future of Abrar Ahmed in The Hundred
The Pakistan Cricket Board holds the final say on whether Abrar will participate in the tournament, as they can deny him a No Objection Certificate (NOC). A source indicated to a media channel that he might not play in The Hundred due to Pakistan's upcoming two-match Test series against the West Indies. The Hundred 2026 is set to take place from July 21 to August 16.