KARACHI: Peshawar Zalmi on Tuesday announced Australian all-rounder Aaron Hardy as the replacement for Afghanistan wicketkeeper-batter Rahmanullah Gurbaz ahead of the historic 11th edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) from March 26 to May 3.
The franchise confirmed the news on their official social media handle, posting: “After much anticipation, we are proud to sign Australian all-rounder Aaron Hardy directly for PSL 11. A proven match-winner, Hardy brings poise, energy and versatility to the team.”
Gurbaz was signed by Peshawar Zalmi on February 5, in a graphic poster of him in a traditional turban against a hilly backdrop. However, the owner did not disclose the signing amount.
The Afghanistan international later announced his withdrawal from the tournament via a video on his social media, explaining in his native Pushto.
“Salaam to all, fans from everywhere. After the World Cup, I won’t be able to attend the PSL this season due to my schedule. I will focus more on my foundation work in Afghanistan. Thanks for the love and support.”
The 27-year-old brings extensive experience in the shorter formats of the game. He played for the Perth Scorchers in the Big Bash League (BBL) and scored 1,499 runs and 38 wickets in 73 matches.
He has also participated in Major League Cricket (MLC).
Meanwhile, the second edition champions have retained key players ahead of the PSL 11 auction scheduled in Lahore on Wednesday.
Babar Azam tops the Platinum category with PKR 70 million retention, followed by Subian Mukeem in Diamond (PKR 44.8 million), Abdul Samad in Gold (PKR 28 million), and Ali Raza in the Emerging category (PKR 19.6 million).
The franchise has so far spent PKR 162.4 million out of its total bid budget of PKR 450 million.
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