KARACHI: Former Pakistan Super League (PSL) champions Peshawar Zalmi on Thursday announced the direct signing of Afghanistan wicketkeeper-batter Rahmanullah Gurbaz ahead of the PSL 11 players’ auction, scheduled for February 11.

The franchise made the announcement through its official social media platforms, sharing a poster featuring Gurbaz in traditional attire with mountainous scenery in the background. The artwork also included the Pashto phrase “Pakhair Raghlay”, meaning welcome.

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“We are proud to confirm the direct signing of Afghanistan’s star wicketkeeper-batter, Rahmanullah Gurbaz,” the franchise said in its caption.

“Explosive with the bat, lightning-fast behind the stumps, and an exceptional fielder with extraordinary energy — welcome to the Zalmi family,” it added.

Peshawar Zalmi did not disclose the financial details of the signing.

Gurbaz, 24, has been a key member of Afghanistan’s national team since making his international debut in 2019. He has represented his country in two Tests, 52 One-Day Internationals, and 83 Twenty20 Internationals.

The right-handed batter is among the most in-demand Afghan players in global franchise cricket and has featured in major leagues including the Indian Premier League, Bangladesh Premier League, Caribbean Premier League, SA20, and ILT20.

In the PSL, Gurbaz has previously played three seasons — representing Multan Sultans in 2021 and Islamabad United in the 2022 and 2023 editions. Across 15 PSL matches, he has scored 318 runs, including one half-century.

For PSL 11, Gurbaz will join Pakistan star batter Babar Azam, along with Sufiyan Muqeem, Abdul Samad, and Ali Raza, who were retained by Peshawar Zalmi in the Platinum, Diamond, Gold, and Silver categories, respectively.

Meanwhile, Zalmi owner Javed Afridi has faced criticism on social media following the announcement, with mixed reactions from fans regarding the direct signing of Gurbaz ahead of the auction.