Shah Rukh Khan faces backlash for including Pakistanis in CPL team

WEB DESK: Bollywood’s Shah Rukh Khan aka King Khan has drawn criticism from right-wing groups in India after his Caribbean Premier League (CPL) franchise Trinbago Knight Riders signed two Pakistani cricketers for the upcoming season.

The franchise, which Khan co-owns through his Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) consortium, has recruited fast bowler Mohammad Amir and newcomer Usman Tariq. While the move was welcomed by cricket fans, sections of Indian social media users and Hindu nationalist groups accused the actor of being “unpatriotic,” sparking online calls to reverse the decision.

The Controversy

• Social media backlash: Hashtags demanding contract cancellations trended, with critics questioning Khan’s decision amid strained India-Pakistan relations.
• Political undertones: Analysts note the incident reflects the increasing politicisation of Indo-Pak sporting ties, where associations with Pakistani athletes often trigger nationalist outrage.
• No official response: TKR has remained silent on the matter, with no indication of reconsidering the signings.

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Broader Implications

Amir, a former Pakistan international, has prior CPL experience, while Tariq will make his debut if the team does not give in to pressure. The controversy highlights recurring tensions in India, where cultural and sporting engagements with Pakistan frequently face scrutiny.

Though the backlash remains confined to online platforms for now, observers warn that Khan—a frequent target of right-wing campaigns, could face amplified pressure if the issue escalates.

The episode has reignited debates on whether sports should transcend geopolitical tensions, with supporters arguing for merit-based selections while critics frame it as a loyalty test.