Afghanistan’s star leg-spinner Rashid Khan has made the decision to pull out from Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2024 as the Lahore Qalandars star is yet to completely recover from his recent back surgery. Rashid is currently under rehab and even missed out on featuring in the high-octane Ind vs Afg  three-match T20I series. The senior Afghan player wants to prioritize his health and ensure a full recuperation before returning to competitive cricket. Prior to PSL, the 25-year-old had also withdrawn from participating in the Big Bash League and SA20. 

Rashid Khan has been a pivotal member of the Lahore Qalandars squad for the past three seasons, contributing significantly to their title victories in both 2022 and 2023. Recognizing his value, the franchise opted to retain him in the silver category during the December draft.

Despite being aware of Rashid Khan’s unavailability due to his ongoing recovery, Lahore Qalandars management chose to retain him to ensure the team’s access to one of the premier spinners for future PSL seasons. 

What Is Silver Category In PSL?

In the hierarchy of Pakistan Super League (PSL) players, the Silver category occupies the fourth position, following Platinum, Diamond, and Gold categories. Each team participating in the upcoming PSL event of 2022 is permitted to have up to 5 Silver players. Players in PSL Silver category have a base price of $15,000 and a maximum price of $25,000.

Will Rashid Khan Play In IPL 2024?

According to ESPNcricinfo, Rashid Khan will make himself available to represent Gujarat Titans in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024. 

“It is a case of us making sure that we are really careful with his back. He is such an influential player: we have to make sure he is 100% ready and not rush him back from that type of surgery… when he is ready, he will be the first one to get on the field. He has got a few more appointments and check-ups to make sure everything is OK, so there is no real time-frame. I hope it is sooner rather than later, but there is no pressure and no rush,” Afghanistan head coach Jonathan Trott was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.