Just when cricket fans thought they had seen every twist the franchise cricket world could throw at them, Sunrisers owner Kavya Maran has pulled off a move that nobody saw coming. In a decision that’s already stirring conversations across cricket circles, the Sunrisers franchise has signed Pakistan’s mystery leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed in a deal worth £190,000 (around ₹2.34 crore).
The timing makes it even more dramatic. With the cricket calendar packed and leagues battling for star power, this signing has landed like a thunderclap.
1. A Deal That Raised Eyebrows Across Cricket
The agreement brings 27-year-old Abrar Ahmed into the Sunrisers family, but not for the IPL. Instead, he will represent Sunrisers Leeds in The Hundred, the fast-paced 100-ball tournament in England. The deal was finalized during the ongoing player draft, where Kavya Maran herself reportedly took a keen interest in securing the spinner’s services.
2. Breaking a Long-Standing Barrier
pakistan players have not been part of the IPL since the early seasons due to political tensions. However, The Hundred operates under a completely different framework, allowing franchises to recruit talent regardless of nationality. By signing Abrar Ahmed, the Sunrisers management has stepped into territory that many franchises have carefully avoided.
3. The Mystery Spinner’s Impressive Resume
Abrar ahmed isn’t just another overseas recruit. The leg-spinner has built a reputation for bamboozling batters with his variations and sharp control. He has represented pakistan across formats and continues to shine in t20 leagues worldwide.
4. A world cup Performance That Turned Heads
During the 2026 t20 World Cup, Abrar delivered one of the tournament’s standout spells — 3 wickets for just 23 runs against sri lanka in the Super 8 stage. Performances like that made him a highly sought-after name in franchise drafts.
5. Global League Experience
From the Pakistan Super League to the Bangladesh Premier League and Major League Cricket, Abrar has already proven he can thrive in high-pressure franchise environments. However, The Hundred will mark his first appearance in a european t20 competition, adding another milestone to his career.
6. The Final Hurdle
The move will still require formal approval from the Pakistan cricket Board (PCB) before it becomes official. But if cleared, this signing could quietly reshape how franchises approach talent from across the border.
One thing is certain: Kavya Maran’s surprise move has already added a new layer of intrigue to the global franchise cricket landscape.
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