• Home
  • Who Said What
  • Zimbabwe Are Not Far Away From Sikandar Raza After Win Against West Indies

'Zimbabwe are not far away from...': Sikandar Raza After Win Against West Indies

image-ljb403k5Sikandar Raza has been the MVP for Zimbabwe [Twitter]

Zimbabwe all-rounder Sikandar Raza has said that they are ‘not far away from the best’ in the world after defeating the West Indies by 35 runs in the qualifiers for the 2023 Cricket World Cup. 

Following Zimbabwe’s thumping win, Raza revealed what message he passed on to his team, adding they are inching closer to becoming one of the world’s best teams.  

Sikandar Raza has been the backbone of Zimbabwe in the ongoing World Cup qualifiers, amassing 170 runs in just two matches and picking up six wickets in three innings. 

Here’s what Sikandar Raza said in the post-match conference:

“All I asked from the boys was fight and courage out there. As long as we are doing that, the skills will look after themselves - we are not far away from the best in the world. Our bowling has been amazing.” 

Zimbabwe were bowled out for 268 runs in 49.5 overs. In reply, West Indies could manage only 233 and were bundled out in 44.4 overs. Speaking on the same, Sikandar Raza admitted his concerns of falling short by 20-30 runs but credited their bowlers for sealing the win. 

“I personally thought we were 20-30 runs short. But the hunger we have, to win this game and to get to India - that took care of the runs we were short of. We always believed our bowlers. We never doubted them and no better place to stand up. They are the ones who really won us that match.” 

After being asked to bat first, Zimbabwe posted 268 runs on the board, courtesy of half-century knocks from Raza and Ryan Burl. Keamo Paul was the pick of the bowlers for the West Indies, snaring three wickets while conceding 61 runs in 10 overs.

In reply, Kyle Mayers scored a half-century but couldn't convert it into a big total as West Indies were bowled out for 233 runs in 44.4 overs, losing the game by 35 runs. Zimbabwe is now set to play their next qualifier game against the United States on June 26 at Harare Sports Club, Harare.