Sunrisers and Leeds responded to the protest over the signing of Abrar Ahmed, why is there an uproar over the Pakistani spinner

News India Live, Digital Desk: yorkshire based cricket club leeds and their women’s team Sunrisers Pakistan’s mystery spinner Abrar Ahmed After signing, he has responded to the strong opposition on social media. This decision of the club has sparked a new debate among fans, in which questions are being raised on the complex relationship between sports and politics.

What is the whole controversy?

Recently Sunrisers and Leeds had announced the inclusion of Abrar Ahmed as their foreign player for the upcoming cricket season. As soon as this news came on social media, a group of fans opened a front against the club.

Reason for protest: Many fans argue that due to the current strained international relations with Pakistan and certain incidents in the past, the club should have given a player from another country a chance. Trends like #BoycottLeeds were also seen on social media.

Club defence: Responding to the criticism, the club spokesperson clarified that Abrar Ahmed has been given his ‘Special sporting ability’ Selected on the basis of (Unique Bowling Skills). The club believes that his presence will strengthen the spin department of the team.

Why only Abrar Ahmed?

25-year-old Abrar Ahmed is known for his ‘mystery’ bowling. He made a brilliant debut in Test cricket and bowled lethally against England. Sunrisers and Leeds believe that:

Benefits of conditions: Abrar’s balls are fast in the air and take turn from the pitch, which can prove to be very effective in English conditions.

Focus on talent: “Our focus is solely on improving the team’s performance on the field. Abrar is a world-class talent and we are delighted that he is joining us,” the club said in its official statement.

Mixed reaction from fans

While on one side there are protests, the other section of cricket lovers has also come in support of the club. He says that sports should be kept away from politics and the merit of any player should be measured by his performance rather than his country.

What next?

Despite protests, the club has refused to withdraw its signing. Abrar Ahmed will soon join the team and will be seen showing the magic of his spin in the county or T20 Blast matches. Now everyone’s eyes are on whether Abrar is able to silence these critics with his performance on the field or not.