In a 2024 World Cup qualifier played in Harare, Sikandar Raza maintained his exceptional form on the international stage and helped Zimbabwe defeat the Netherlands by 4 wickets. Raza swung the game’s outcome for the home team by scoring 102 runs in just 54 deliveries, including 8 sixes and 6 fours. He also grabbed the game-winning four wickets. The brilliance of Zimbabwe’s innings was led by Sean Williams, who also scored 91 runs off 58 deliveries.
Image Source: ESPNcricinfo
Sikandar Raza
Pakistan’s Sialkot is where Sikandar Raza was born. This champion had previously dreamed of becoming a fighter pilot for his country, but he was unable to pass the eye examination. For Raza, it was a painful situation. Later, Raza relocated to Zimbabwe and began competing for the Northern in First Class Cricket. The decision-makers quickly called Raza for his first call-up to the Zimbabwe National Team.
When Raza made his debut in 2013 against Bangladesh, he did not put forth a stellar display. He faced up against a formidable Indian team, and his vital knock of 82 enabled Zimbabwe score a respectable total. In 2015, Raza was also chosen for the Zimbabwe Cricket Team’s national side. He was still looking for his form in international cricket, though.
In the World Cup qualifier for 2019, Raza received the Man of the Tournament award. Despite having 319 runs and 15 wickets, Zimbabwe was still unable to qualify for the World Cup. Raza’s career experienced more ups and downs, and in 2021 the young man was afflicted with a bone marrow infection. Many cricketers’ lives have been ruined by injuries and medical problems over the years, but Sikandar Raza, who has always been a fighter at heart, made an incredible return in international play.
In the T20 World Cup Qualifiers, Raza broke every rule in his path, performed remarkably well, and won Player of the Tournament. In the tournament’s following rounds, Zimbabwe defeated Pakistan by a score of 1 run; this victory marked the reconstruction of Zimbabwe Cricket.
Image Source: Zimabawe Cricket Instagram
Zimbabwe Team can be Party Spoilers in this CWC 2024?
Right before the world cup which will be held in India in the months of October and November, the team is at its best. Sean Williams, the batter with the most experience, is thrashing and hitting the ball rather effectively in the park. The batter’s last six One Day International appearances, in which he scored 410 runs with a respectable Strike Rate, speak volumes about him. Additionally, he has had success bowling.
Image Source: Times of India
For Zimbabwe, Richard Ngarva has been the season’s best discovery. The young player is bold in his approach, which is encouraging for Zimbabwe cricket’s future. The CWC 2024 will be place in India from October 5 until November 19. Ten Nations will compete in it. This esteemed Cricket World Cup is currently in its thirteenth year. England overcame New Zealand in 2019 to win the World Cup. England was awarded the trophy based on the greater number of fours, making it the most contentious game in the history of the Cricket World Cup.
