Afghan opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz has officially withdrawn from the 11th edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL), despite having signed a direct contract to play for Peshawar Zalmi. Remarkably, Gurbaz made the decision to step away from the tournament just two days after joining the squad, sending shockwaves through fans and organisers alike.
The 25-year-old cricketer confirmed his withdrawal via a video message on Instagram on Saturday, explaining that personal commitments and unfinished responsibilities with his charitable foundation prevent him from participating in this year’s PSL.
In the video, Gurbaz emphasised his desire to return to Afghanistan immediately after a successful World Cup campaign. “I want to be in my home country to personally oversee the activities of my foundation, ensuring that the work is completed properly and can benefit our people more effectively,” he stated.
Gurbaz’s decision highlights the increasing prioritisation of personal and philanthropic responsibilities by modern cricketers. While the PSL remains a high-profile tournament attracting international talent, players are increasingly balancing professional commitments with social impact projects.
Sources suggest that Gurbaz’s decision may not be isolated. Reports indicate that other Afghan cricketers could follow suit, potentially withdrawing from this season of the PSL. Among the names reportedly under consideration are Naveen-ul-Haq and Mujeeb Ur Rahman, both key figures in Afghanistan’s national team. Their potential absence could have significant implications for team strategies and fan expectations.
Afghan Players’ PSL Status – 2026 Season (Possible Withdrawals)
| Player Name | Team | Contract Type | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rahmanullah Gurbaz | Peshawar Zalmi | Direct | Withdrawn |
| Naveen-ul-Haq | TBD | Direct | Possible Withdrawal |
| Mujeeb Ur Rahman | TBD | Direct | Possible Withdrawal |
Gurbaz’s early exit leaves Peshawar Zalmi with a crucial gap in their batting lineup. The franchise will now need to reconsider its strategies and possibly scout for replacements ahead of the tournament. Cricket analysts note that while the PSL provides invaluable exposure and competition, the timing of the event coinciding with personal projects and charitable commitments can pose challenges for international players.
The 2026 PSL is set to showcase some of the finest talent from around the world, but Afghan cricket fans will keenly feel the absence of Gurbaz, whose aggressive batting style has made him one of the most exciting young players in international cricket. The coming weeks may reveal whether other Afghan stars follow his lead, potentially reshaping the tournament’s roster.