India, March 13 -- Indian businesswoman and cricket franchise executive Kavya Maran has found herself at the centre of an online storm after her team's decision at the men's player auction of The Hundred.

The controversy began when the Sunrisers franchise secured the services of Pakistan's mystery spinner Abrar Ahmed for $255,000, making him the first Pakistani cricketer to be signed by an Indian-owned team in the tournament.

Soon after the pick, criticism erupted across social media platforms, with many Indian fans questioning the decision and accusing the franchise of ignoring "national sentiment".

The backlash has largely been directed at Kavya Maran, who was present at the auction table alongside head coach Daniel Vettori when the ...