Afghanistan wicketkeeper-batsman Rahmanullah Gurbaz has opted out of Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2026, just two days after Peshawar Zalmi announced him as a direct signing for the 11th edition of the tournament ahead of the league’s first-ever full player auction.
Gurbaz confirmed his decision in a video posted on Instagram citing personal commitments and unfinished business related to his charitable foundation. The 24-year-old said he plans to return to Afghanistan after the World Cup is over to personally oversee the foundation’s activities.
“I will not be available to play in the PSL this year. I have some personal commitments and a lot of work for my charity foundation is still unfinished,” said Gurbaz. “After a successful World Cup campaign, I plan to return to my beloved Afghanistan to personally oversee the work of the foundation to better serve the people of Afghanistan.”
He also thanked fans for their continued support, adding: “May you stay happy and prosperous wherever you are. Please keep me in your prayers.” Gurbaz’s withdrawal comes amid speculation involving fellow Afghans Naveen-ul-Haq and Mujeeb Ur Rahman.
Naveen had earlier shared a cryptic message on Facebook following Gurbaz’s signing, with reports suggesting that the trio had discussed skipping the PSL this season due to personal and professional reasons. The right-handed batsman has featured in three PSL seasons before.
He represented Multan Sultans in 2021 before appearing for Islamabad United in 2022 and 2023. In 15 matches, Gurbaz scored 318 runs at an average of 22.71, including one half-century. A regular for Afghanistan across formats, Gurbaz has played two Tests, 52 ODIs and 83 T20Is, and has earned a reputation for his aggressive approach at the top of the order and pure wicket-taking skills.
He remains one of the most sought-after Afghan players at franchise level, with appearances in leagues such as the Indian Premier League, Bangladesh Premier League, Caribbean Premier League, SA20 and ILT20.
Overall, Gurbaz amassed 6,244 runs in T20 cricket at an average of 24.97 and a strike rate of 145.00, including two centuries. Meanwhile, the PSL is set for a major shift with the introduction of a full auction system for the first time.
The PSL 2026 Player Auction is scheduled to take place on February 11, 2026, with the overseas players being listed at a base price of PKR 4.2 million and has already generated significant global interest.
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Issued by:
Saurabh Kumar
Published on:
February 7, 2026
