• Zimbabwe posted 143/5 after opting to bat first against Sri Lanka in ongoing first T20I at R. Premadasa Stadium.

  • Sikandar Raza crafted a masterful innings of 62 in 42 balls.

Fans praise Sikandar Raza as his resilient batting propels Zimbabwe to a competitive total against Sri Lanka in 1st T20I
Sikandar Raza (Image Source: Twitter)

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In the ongoing inaugural T20I of the three-match series between Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe at R. Premadasa Stadium on Sunday (January 14), Zimbabwe, having won the toss, chose to set a target for the home team.

Sikandar Raza’s crucial knock for Zimbabwe

The innings commenced with Tinashe Kamunhukamwe providing a brisk start, setting a positive tone. However, the early dismissals of Craig Ervine and Sean Williams added pressure to the visitors. In the face of this challenge, Sikandar Raza emerged as the lynchpin for Zimbabwe, crafting a masterful innings of 62 runs off 42 balls. His aggressive yet calculated approach not only anchored the innings but also propelled the team to a respectable 143/5 in their allotted 20 overs.

As the Zimbabwean innings progressed, the supporting cast of Ryan Burl, Brian Bennett and Luke Jongwe played their roles, contributing to the team’s total. Nevertheless, it was Raza’s ability to find boundaries and construct crucial partnerships that stood out. His innings featured five fours and two sixes, showcasing a blend of aggression and finesse. Despite facing challenges from Sri Lankan bowlers, including the likes of Wanindu Hasaranga and Dushmantha Chameera, Raza’s resilience led Zimbabwe to a competitive score.

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Maheesh Theekshana and Wanindu Hasaranaga great bowling for Sri Lanka

On the bowling front, Sri Lanka’s Maheesh Theekshana emerged as the standout performer, grabbing two wickets while maintaining an economical spell. Hasaranga also made significant contributions, picking up two crucial wickets. The Sri Lankan bowlers, however, encountered resistance from Raza, who held the Zimbabwean innings together. Although Sri Lanka managed to contain the run rate, Raza’s impactful innings added a layer of competitiveness to the game.

Here’s how Twitter reacted:

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AMAR PAL SINGH BHALLA
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