Rawalpindiz Signed Usman Khawaja as Replacement for PSL 11

PSL newcomers Rawalpindiz have signed Australian batter Usman Khawaja as a replacement for Laurie Evans ahead of PSL 11, the franchise confirmed on social media. The experienced left-hander joins the squad as the team prepares for its first season in the Pakistan Super League.

The franchise announced the signing in a post welcoming Khawaja to the side. “@Uz_Khawaja joins The Pindiz! A world-class batter with top-level experience comes in as the replacement for Laurie Evans. Welcome to Pindi, Uzzie,” the franchise stated.

Khawaja adds experience to the Rawalpindiz batting lineup, having played more than 100 T20 matches across various leagues. His T20 career includes appearances in Australia’s Big Bash League, England’s Vitality Blast and the Indian Premier League. 

He has also previously played in the Pakistan Super League, representing Islamabad United during the 2021 season where he scored consistently during the tournament.

PSL 11 to Feature Eight Teams

The upcoming PSL season 11 will be played with eight teams for the first time, with Rawalpindiz and Hyderabad Kingsmen joining the competition as new franchises. The tournament is expected to feature 44 matches across a 39-day schedule.

However, the tournament format has undergone changes. The Pakistan Cricket Board confirmed that the competition will now be staged at only two venues, Karachi and Lahore. The matches will also be played without spectators.

PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi confirmed the revised arrangements, marking a significant change in the tournament’s original plan.

Rawalpindiz will now head into their debut season with an experienced international batter in their lineup as they prepare for their first campaign in the Pakistan Super League.