Kavya Maran, an Indian business leader and prominent figure in franchise cricket, has been drawn into a wave of online criticism after a decision taken by her team during The Hundred men's auction.
The controversy surfaced when the Sunrisers franchise acquired Pakistan spinner Abrar Ahmed for $255,000 (around Rs 2.35 crore), a deal that made him the first Pakistani cricketer to represent an Indian-owned side in the tournament.
Many Indian fans remember Abrar for his tea-drinking gesture after dismissing Indian batters. The celebration has been widely viewed as mocking Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman, who was captured in Pakistan following an aerial confrontation.
Who Is Kavya Maran?
As CEO and co-owner of Sunrisers Hyderabad, Kavya Maran has become a familiar face in the Indian Premier League (IPL).
Born in Chennai on Aug. 6, 1992, she hails from the powerful Maran business family. Her father, Kalanithi Maran, is the Executive Chairman at the media giant Sun Group, whose expansive portfolio spans television, radio and film production. According to Forbes estimates, his wealth is roughly $2.5 billion.
Beyond its business interests, the Maran family also maintains a notable political presence. Kavya Maran's uncle, Dayanidhi Maran, is a prominent figure within the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK).
Kavya Maran completed her undergraduate studies in Commerce at Stella Maris College before obtaining an MBA from Warwick Business School. She assumed the position of CEO at Sunrisers Hyderabad in 2018 and has since overseen several aspects of the team's cricket operations.
In addition to owning Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL, the group also runs Sunrisers Eastern Cape, a franchise competing in SA20, South Africa's premier T20 competition.
Reports indicate her net worth is around Rs 400–435 crore.
While Kavya Maran's precise shareholding in Sunrisers Hyderabad has never been publicly disclosed, the franchise is owned by Sun TV Network. The media group secured the team in 2012 with a winning bid of Rs 85.05 crore per year after the Deccan Chargers were terminated. As CEO, Maran is widely regarded as a central figure in guiding the franchise's direction.
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