Cricket News, Khawaja Joins, Cricket Updates
Rawalpindi Pindiz have announced the signing of Australian veteran Usman Khawaja as a replacement for England batter Laurie Evans ahead of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2026 season. The franchise did not disclose the reason behind Evans’ withdrawal but confirmed Khawaja’s inclusion via social media.
The 39-year-old Khawaja recently retired from international cricket during the Ashes earlier this year. Despite stepping away from the international stage, he showed solid form in domestic competitions, featuring for Brisbane Heat in the Big Bash League, where he scored 108 runs at an impressive strike rate of nearly 148 across three innings. He also represented Queensland in the Sheffield Shield, marking the conclusion of his first-class career.
Khawaja is no stranger to the PSL, having previously played for Islamabad United in the 2021 season. He enjoyed a standout campaign, amassing 246 runs in seven innings at an average of 49.20 and a strike rate of 152.79. His performances included an unbeaten 105 against Peshawar Zalmi, helping his side post what was then a record total of 247. Islamabad United finished top of the table that season but were eventually knocked out in the second eliminator.
At Rawalpindi Pindiz, Khawaja is expected to open the batting alongside captain Mohammad Rizwan. The team has already undergone changes in its lineup, with Australia’s Jake Fraser-McGurk withdrawing earlier and being replaced by New Zealand all-rounder Cole McConchie.
Evans’ exit continues a growing trend of late withdrawals in the PSL, with players such as Dasun Shanaka and Blessing Muzarabani also pulling out to pursue opportunities in the IPL.
Meanwhile, Islamabad United have made a change of their own, signing Australian off-spinner Chris Green as a replacement for Max Bryant, who has been ruled out due to injury. Bryant, who previously featured in five matches for Peshawar Zalmi, had been picked by United for PKR 1.95 crore ahead of the new season.
Green brings prior PSL experience, having played five matches for Multan Sultans in 2019.
The PSL 2026 season is set to begin on March 26, with Lahore Qalandars facing Hyderabad Kingsmen in the opening fixture. Rawalpindi Pindiz will kick off their campaign on March 28 in an afternoon clash against Peshawar Zalmi.
The first 14 matches of the tournament will be held in Lahore before the competition moves to Karachi. Notably, this year’s PSL will be played behind closed doors due to resource constraints stemming from the ongoing conflict in West Asia.
