'I did not ask': Sunil Gavaskar hits back at the criticism of attending Pakistani Show

Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has strongly rejected allegations of hypocrisy after his comments on Abrar Ahmed being picked by Sunrisers Leeds in The Hundred 2026 and his reports of attending Pakistani show in Dubai during Asia Cup 2025.Gavaskar had earlier raised concerns about Indian ownership indirectly benefiting Pakistani cricketers through overseas leagues. His remarks came in the wake of Abrar Ahmed’s signing, which reignited discussions around India-Pakistan cricketing ties at the franchise level. However, his stance drew criticism, with some accusing him of double standards, particularly pointing to his involvement in international commentary panels and a reported appearance on a Pakistan-related show. Responding to the backlash, Gavaskar dismissed the accusations and clarified his position in an interview with Mumbai Mirror“Yes, I have been on commentary panels of ICC and ACC. The revenue went to all the participating countries from the ICC and ACC, but not from an Indian entity as far as I know. I don’t understand how you can say that I am a contributor since I am not making any payment to any commentator, Indian or any other nationality," Gavaskar said. “I don’t know about other sports and what they are doing, all I am praying for is that Indians stop paying Pakistanis. If you have noticed, the reverse has never happened for decades, if ever." he added. Another point of criticism was Gavaskar’s, but the former India captain Sunil Gavaskar appeared as a special guest on the DP World Dressing Room show on YouTube during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. During the interaction, Gavaskar reflected on his illustrious career, expressed his admiration for being back in a “dressing room” environment, and shared his views on several current cricketing issues.However, he firmly denied claims of financial or formal involvement on a similar show during the Asia Cup alongside former Pakistan greats Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis, Gavaskar said,''I did not ask nor got paid for the show in Dubai.''