Daniel Vettori explains why Sunrisers Leeds signed Abrar Ahmed

LONDON: Sunrisers Leeds head coach Daniel Vettori has explained the rationale behind signing Pakistan spinner Abrar Ahmed for The Hundred 2026, describing him as the ideal overseas replacement after the franchise failed to secure first-choice target Adil Rashid.

Speaking to the media ahead of Leeds' campaign, the former New Zealand captain said the franchise explored several overseas spin options before deciding that Abrar's wicket-taking ability and mystery spin made him the standout candidate.

"Adil Rashid was a priority for us and when we missed out on him we looked to the overseas market for spinners. There are a number of very good bowlers in that group and we decided Abrar, after a few discussions, was the best option," Vettori said.

The 47-year-old highlighted Abrar's versatility with the ball, saying the Pakistan international can operate effectively at different stages of an innings while consistently providing breakthroughs.

"He gives us the flexibility to bowl at any stage of the innings and he's a proven wicket-taker. I think the fact that he has so many mystery deliveries and that a lot of English batters won't have faced him before puts us in a good position because we need that wicket-taking option through the middle," he added.

Vettori also praised Bangladesh leg-spinner Rishad Hossain, who was among the overseas spin options considered by the franchise, but explained why Abrar ultimately got the nod.

"They're all great bowlers, including Rishad Hossain. I think he has proven himself in franchise cricket as well as international cricket, but you've got to make a choice. As I said, Abrar's track record and his wicket-taking ability really appealed to us," Vettori concluded.

Meanwhile, the 27-year-old's tournament debut ended in disappointment as Sunrisers Leeds suffered a seven-wicket defeat to MI London in the opening match at the Kennington Oval.

Abrar announced himself with the bat by smashing a six off the first ball he faced and scored seven runs from three deliveries. 

However, he endured a difficult outing with the ball, conceding 30 runs from his 10-ball spell as MI London comfortably chased down the 145-run target.