Afghan opening batsman Rahmanullah Gurbaz has unexpectedly withdrawn from the 11th edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL), despite having been signed directly by Peshawar Zalmi. The decision came barely two days after he was confirmed as part of the franchise, leaving fans and team management surprised.
Gurbaz officially announced his withdrawal on Saturday through a video message shared on Instagram. In the message, he cited personal commitments and unfinished work with his charitable foundation as the primary reasons for opting out of this year’s PSL.
Speaking in the video, Gurbaz stated: “After a successful World Cup, I feel the need to return to my beloved Afghanistan. I want to be present on the ground to ensure the proper functioning of my foundation and contribute more effectively to the welfare of our people.”
The 24-year-old Afghan star, who has been a rising force in international cricket, has often been praised for his explosive batting style and consistent performances in T20 leagues around the world. His absence is considered a significant blow for Peshawar Zalmi, who were expecting him to anchor their batting line-up in the upcoming tournament.
In addition to Gurbaz, reports suggest that several other Afghan cricketers might follow suit and withdraw from the PSL, citing personal commitments and national priorities. Among the potential list of absentees are prominent names like Naveen-ul-Haq and Muzib-ur-Rahman, both of whom are integral members of Afghanistan’s national team. The developments could impact the representation of Afghan talent in the PSL this season, which has historically seen strong performances from the country’s players.
The decision has sparked a discussion within cricket circles regarding the balancing of franchise commitments and national or personal responsibilities, highlighting the growing influence of players’ off-field engagements on their professional schedules.
Key Details: Rahmanullah Gurbaz’s PSL Withdrawal
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Player | Rahmanullah Gurbaz |
| Age | 24 |
| Team | Peshawar Zalmi |
| PSL Edition | 11th |
| Reason for Withdrawal | Personal commitments and unfinished charitable work |
| Announcement Date | Saturday, 8 February 2026 |
| Possible Other Afghan Withdrawals | Naveen-ul-Haq, Muzib-ur-Rahman |
Gurbaz’s decision underscores the importance that modern cricketers place on balancing their on-field careers with personal projects and national obligations. As the PSL approaches, teams are now reassessing their strategies and squad compositions to fill the gaps left by players prioritising commitments outside professional cricket.
