The Hundreds 2026 Auction: Sunrisers Leeds Sign Pakistani Leg Spinner Abrar Ahmed After Promising T20 World Cup Performance

Add as a preferred source on Google

The Hundreds 2026 Auction: Indian Premier League franchise Sunrisers Hyderabad has once again grabbed headlines after owner Kavya Maran secured the services of Pakistan's leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed during the ongoing auction for The Hundred. The Pakistani spinner has been signed for £190,000 (approximately ₹2.34 crore) and will represent Sunrisers Leeds in the upcoming season.

The deal was finalised during the player auction for the 100-ball tournament, where Maran personally took part in the bidding process alongside the team's coaching and support staff. The management reportedly backed Ahmed based on his recent performances and international experience.

While players from Pakistan are currently not allowed to participate in the Indian Premier League, the restriction does not apply to overseas competitions such as The Hundred. This allowed the Sunrisers-owned franchise to sign the leg-spinner without violating league regulations.

Ahmed, 27, has built a strong reputation in international cricket and T20 leagues around the world. The Pakistan spinner has represented his country across formats and has also played in tournaments such as the Pakistan Super League, Bangladesh Premier League, and Major League Cricket.

He was also among the standout performers during the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, where he delivered an impressive spell against Sri Lanka in the Super 8 stage, picking up 3 wickets for 23 runs.

The move marks Ahmed's first appearance in a European franchise league, although his participation will still require final approval from the Pakistan Cricket Board.

With the signing, Sunrisers Leeds have strengthened their spin attack as they prepare for the upcoming edition of The Hundred, where the franchise will look to build a competitive squad for the tournament.