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Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) have introduced a fresh face to lead their T20 International (T20I) side. This selection comes just prior to the T20 World Cup 2024 qualifiers slated for the following month, where Zimbabwe has its sights set on securing a place in the marquee event in the USA and the Caribbean next year.
A new skipper takes the helm
Remarkably, Zimbabwe has chosen Sikandar Raza, a celebrated all-rounder who plies his trade with Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the Indian Premier League (IPL), to assume the role of captain in the T20I format. This decision represents a notable shift in leadership for Zimbabwean cricket, with the intent to rejuvenate the team’s T20I performance.
ZC’s official confirmation of Raza’s appointment as the T20I captain was made on Sunday. Hailing from Sialkot, Pakistan, the 37-year-old all-rounder has been an integral part of the Zimbabwean international cricket setup since 2013, boasting extensive experience and a versatile skill set.
A change in leadership
Raza steps in as the successor to the experienced Craig Ervine, who formerly led the team across all formats but will now exclusively captain Zimbabwe in Test matches and One-Day Internationals (ODIs).
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In addition to the captaincy change, the Zimbabwe Cricket Board has opted to retain Dave Houghton as the head coach, focusing on the impending T20 World Cup qualifiers. Houghton’s role has also expanded to include participation in the selection panel, alongside the ongoing convenor of selectors, David Mutendra. Former captain Elton Chigumbura is the latest addition to the selection panel.
A stellar record and high expectations
Raza, a prominent figure in T20I cricket, boasts an impressive record of 71 appearances, 1436 runs, and 42 wickets. His notable achievements include eight half-centuries, with his best bowling performance being 4/8.
With Raza taking on the leadership of the T20I team and the inclusion of experienced individuals in the selection panel, Zimbabwe are poised to elevate its T20I performance, aiming to secure a spot in the upcoming T20 World Cup.
