Why Kavya Why? Social Media Questions Kavya Maran After SunRisers Leeds Sign Pakistan Player Abrar Ahmed

The signing of Pakistan leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed by SunRisers Leeds during the The Hundred 2026 player draft has sparked intense debate online, with many social media users directing criticism at franchise CEO Kavya Maran.

Abrar was secured for £190,000 (around ₹2.34 crore) after SunRisers Leeds fought off competition from Trent Rockets at the auction held in London. While the move is being described by some observers as a bold cricketing decision, it has simultaneously triggered a wave of trolling aimed at Maran across social platforms.

Social media turns critical

Soon after the deal was confirmed, online discussions began focusing on Maran's decision to bring a Pakistani player into a franchise linked to an Indian Premier League ownership group. Some users questioned the move, while others revived older clips involving Abrar that they claimed referenced political tensions between India and Pakistan.

Memes, sarcastic posts and critical comments quickly spread, with several users tagging Kavya Maran directly while expressing disapproval of the signing. The trolling reflects the complex intersection of sport, politics and public sentiment that often surrounds India-Pakistan sporting relations.

A rare moment in franchise cricket

Despite the backlash, the acquisition itself marks a notable moment in global T20 leagues. Since the 2008 Mumbai attacks, Pakistani cricketers have largely been absent from IPL-linked competitions.

Abrar's inclusion by SunRisers Leeds is therefore being viewed as a rare break from that long-standing trend. The leg-spinner will now join a squad led by England captain Harry Brook, placing the team under intense public and media scrutiny.

Abrar Ahmed's growing reputation

On the cricketing front, Abrar Ahmed has emerged as one of Pakistan's most effective spinners in recent years. After debuting internationally in 2022, he gradually expanded his presence in the T20 format.

Since 2024, he has collected over 50 wickets in fewer than 40 T20 matches, maintaining a strong average and an economy rate that highlights his effectiveness in the shortest format. His performances also included appearances during the ICC Men's T20 World Cup, where he contributed key wickets for Pakistan.

Debate continues online

While critics continue to question the decision, others argue that cricket leagues should remain open to players based purely on performance. The England and Wales Cricket Board, which runs The Hundred, has previously emphasised anti-discrimination policies aimed at ensuring the tournament remains inclusive.