Afghan opening batsman Rahmanullah Gurbaz has withdrawn from the 11th edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL), just days after signing a direct contract with Peshawar Zalmi. His unexpected decision comes barely two days after joining the franchise, raising eyebrows in the cricketing community.
Gurbaz confirmed his withdrawal in a video message posted on Instagram on Saturday. He cited personal commitments and unfinished work with his charitable foundation as the reasons behind his inability to participate in this year’s tournament.
In the video, Gurbaz explained that after a successful World Cup campaign, he wishes to return to his homeland, Afghanistan, to oversee the foundation’s activities in person. He emphasised that being physically present would allow him to ensure the foundation’s projects are executed properly and that he can contribute more effectively to the welfare of his fellow citizens.
“I have always prioritised my country and my responsibilities off the field,” Gurbaz said. “While playing in PSL is an honour, I must focus on my foundation and the people who rely on our initiatives. I hope to return to competitive cricket fully prepared next season.”
This development could have a wider impact on the PSL, as several other Afghan cricketers are reportedly considering following Gurbaz’s lead. Among the potential withdrawals are high-profile players such as Naveen-ul-Haq and Mujeeb Ur Rahman. If confirmed, this could pose a challenge for franchises relying on Afghan talent for the upcoming season.
For clarity, below is a summary of Gurbaz’s PSL involvement this year:
| Player | Team | Contract Status | Withdrawal Date | Reason for Withdrawal |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rahmanullah Gurbaz | Peshawar Zalmi | Direct Contract | 6 February 2026 | Personal commitments & charitable foundation duties |
| Naveen-ul-Haq | TBD | Pending | Possible | Personal commitments |
| Mujeeb Ur Rahman | TBD | Pending | Possible | Personal commitments |
Franchise officials have not yet confirmed replacement players, but discussions are reportedly underway to fill the gap left by Gurbaz. Analysts suggest that teams may look toward domestic talent or international players with shorter notice availability to strengthen their squads.
Gurbaz’s decision highlights the delicate balance that modern cricketers often face between international leagues and personal commitments. While the PSL remains one of the most competitive T20 leagues globally, players increasingly weigh their off-field responsibilities alongside professional opportunities.
With the tournament fast approaching, Peshawar Zalmi will need to finalise its squad adjustments promptly to ensure a competitive edge in the 2026 edition of the PSL.