Rashid Khan to make a surprise appearance in PSL final?

It has been reported that Rashid Khan, who is currently busy with international duties, can return to play for Lahore Qalandars, who are set to play against Multan Sultans in the final. Sultans picked up a six-run win over Islamabad United in Eliminator 2. Rashid earlier left the Lahore Qalandars' squad for the Afghanistan tour of Bangladesh. He played 9 matches before he left. All-rounder Samit Patel replaced him in the team.

Meanwhile, as reported by Cricket Pakistan, a source said, the 23-year-old would be available for his team in the final of the HBL PSL 7. However, no official confirmation was made.

The PCB have updated their COVID-19 protocols. As per the update, the isolation period has been reduced from seven days to five days. A negative Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) will be required to exit isolation. This means a negative report for Rashid Khan will make him eligible to play as Rashid is already in bio bubble in Bangladesh. Islamabad United also got Ireland's Paul Stirling in the Eliminator 2 against Qalandars after he returned negative upon his arrival in Pakistan from Oman.

However, unfortunately for the fans, the news turned out to be a mere rumour as Rashid Khan denied participating in the PSL final. He took to Twitter to confirm the same.

It would’ve been great to be part of @lahoreqalandars and play alongside lads in @thePSLt20 final.
I won’t be able to make it for the finals due to National Duty which is always a first priority.I wish my captain @iShaheenAfridi @sameenrana and team GOOD LUCK INSHALLAH ❤️ 🤲🏻

— Rashid Khan (@rashidkhan_19) February 26, 2022

Meanwhile, the defending champions, Multan Sultans have only lost one game this season, against Lahore Qalandars. This will be the fourth time Lahore and Multan are locking horns in the season. Multan Leads the competition 2-1.