Peshawar Zalmi React After Rahmanullah Gurbaz Pulls Out of PSL 11
Peshawar Zalmi issued an official clarification on February 8, 2026, after Afghan wicketkeeper-batter Rahmanullah Gurbaz unexpectedly withdrew from PSL 11, just two days after being announced as a marquee Direct Signing.
The sudden exit triggered confusion, criticism, and a wave of social media backlash, forcing the franchise to publicly explain both the signing and the withdrawal.
📄 Peshawar Zalmi’s Official Statement (Explained)
In its detailed response, Zalmi addressed fan concerns and emphasized transparency. The franchise highlighted four key points:
1. Full Compliance With PSL Rules
Zalmi confirmed that Gurbaz was signed strictly under HBL PSL and PCB regulations, rejecting claims of any procedural violation.
2. NOC Verification Completed
The franchise stated that Gurbaz’s signing was finalized only after receiving No Objection Certificates from both:
- Pakistan Cricket Board
- Afghanistan Cricket Board
3. Merit-Based Selection
Management clarified that Gurbaz was selected purely on cricketing merit, describing him as one of the strongest available players on the official Direct Signing list.
4. Replacement Incoming
Zalmi reassured supporters that a replacement Direct Signing will be announced before PSL 11 begins on March 26, 2026.
❓ Why Did Rahmanullah Gurbaz Pull Out?
Gurbaz personally addressed fans through a Pashto video message on Instagram, outlining his reasons:
- Scheduling Pressure: Heavy workload following the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup
- Charity Commitments: Plans to return to Afghanistan to focus on his personal foundation and youth cricket development
- Personal Responsibilities: Family and home-related obligations
He stressed that the decision was not directed at Peshawar Zalmi or the PSL, but rather a personal choice.
🌪️ The Controversy Behind the Signing
Although Gurbaz cited personal reasons, the controversy began immediately after his signing was announced on February 5.
Social Media Backlash
- Hashtag #BoycottPeshawarZalmi trended nationwide
- Fans objected due to strained Pakistan–Afghanistan cricketing ties, which have been largely suspended since October 2025
Political and Emotional Sensitivity
- Some supporters raised concerns over alleged past social media activity attributed to Gurbaz
- The issue quickly escalated beyond cricket into a politically charged debate
While Zalmi did not reference political pressure directly, the timing of the withdrawal fueled speculation.
📊 Peshawar Zalmi Squad Status (Before PSL 11 Auction)
Despite the setback, Zalmi enter the February 11 PSL Auction with a solid retained core:
| Player | Category | Retention Price |
|---|---|---|
| Babar Azam | Platinum | 70 Million PKR |
| Sufiyan Muqeem | Diamond | 44.8 Million PKR |
| Abdul Samad | Gold | 28 Million PKR |
| Ali Raza | Emerging | 19.6 Million PKR |
❓ Key Fan Questions Answered
Who will captain Peshawar Zalmi in 2025/PSL 11?
Babar Azam is expected to continue as captain, unless the franchise announces a strategic change.
Is Babar Azam joining Peshawar Zalmi?
Yes. Babar Azam is already Zalmi’s Platinum player and captain, retained at the highest price bracket.
What is the controversy with the Zalmi poster?
The backlash was linked to Rahmanullah Gurbaz’s inclusion, not a design issue. Political sentiment and past online narratives fueled the reaction.
Who is the best player in Peshawar Zalmi?
From a performance and leadership standpoint, Babar Azam remains the franchise’s most influential and high-profile player.
🧠 Final Verdict
Rahmanullah Gurbaz’s withdrawal was procedurally clean but emotionally charged.
Peshawar Zalmi followed PSL rules, secured proper approvals, and acted within regulations. However, public sentiment and regional tensions turned a cricketing decision into a major controversy.
With the auction approaching and a replacement signing expected soon, Zalmi now shift focus back to team balance and on-field performance.
