The second Test between Zimbabwe and Afghanistan at Bulawayo began with Zimbabwe asserting dominance on a day filled with bowling brilliance. After electing to field first, Zimbabwe’s bowlers exploited the conditions perfectly, bundling Afghanistan out for a below-par 157 on Day 1. The visiting batters struggled to find rhythm, with none managing a score beyond 25. Tight lines and relentless pressure ensured wickets fell at regular intervals, leaving Afghanistan reeling. Zimbabwe’s openers then safely navigated the tricky final three overs, reaching 6/0 at stumps and trailing by 151 runs.

Zimbabwe’s bowlers led by Sikandar Raza dominate Afghanistan

The Zimbabwean bowling attack delivered a masterclass in discipline and execution. Richard Ngarava was unplayable with figures of 1/18 in 12 overs, suffocating the Afghan batters with his precision. Blessing Muzarabani provided crucial breakthroughs, claiming 2/56, including the key scalp of Shahidullah. Sikandar Raza’s off-spin (3/30) was the standout, dismantling Afghanistan’s middle order with turn and subtle variations. Newman Nyamhuri (3/42) shone in the later stages, expertly cleaning up the tail. The col??lective effort restricted Afghanistan to a mere 157, as Zimbabwe’s bowlers worked in tandem to exploit every lapse in concentration from the opposition.

Afghanistan’s batting woes continue

Afghanistan’s innings was marred by an inability to build meaningful partnerships. Openers Abdul Malik (17) and Riaz Hassan (12) made starts but couldn’t convert them, while Rahmat Shah (19) and captain Hashmatullah Shahidi (13) fell to soft dismissals. Afsar Zazai and Shahidullah tried to stabilize the innings with brief contributions, but none could withstand Zimbabwe’s relentless attack. Rashid Khan’s counterattacking 25 off 20 balls provided a late s?park, but it was??n’t enough to rescue the innings. Frequent collapses and lack of application underlined Afghanistan’s struggles as they were bowled out in just 44.3 overs, squandering any chance of a competitive total.

Also READ: ZIM vs AFG, 2nd Test:? Bulawayo Weather Forecast For All 5 Days | ??Zimbabwe vs Afghanistan 2024-25

Zimbabwe’s steady start in reply

Zimbabwe’s openers, Joylord Gumbie (4 not out) and Ben Curran (1 not out), showed composure under the fading light, ensuring no early setbacks in their reply. Facing three probing overs from Afghanistan’s bowlers, they carefully negotiated deliveries from Rashid, Fareed Ahmad and Yamin Ahmadzai. Though runs came slowly, the duo’s focus was on preserving wickets. Zimbabwe’s batting depth, with experienced campaigners like Craig Ervine and Sikandar Raza waiting in the wings, sets them up for a dominant position on Day 2. The hosts will look to capitalize on this solid start and pile o??n the runs to take full control of th?e match.

Brilliant bowling display by Zimbabwe as they bowl out Afghanistan for 157 on Day 1 of the inaugural New Year’s Test.#ZIMvAFG #VisitZimbabwe 📝//t.co/HdHfDCXyud pic.twitter.com/JqxnzfFVKr

— Zimbabwe Cricket (@ZimCricketv) January 2, 2025

Also READ: ZIM vs AFG 2025, 2nd ?Test: Queens Sports Club Pitch Report, Bulawayo Test stats?? and Records

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Sikandar Raza, Zimbabwe’s experienced all-rounder and T20I captain, is among the prominent players in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 mega auction, set to take place on November 24 and 25 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. With a base price of INR 1.25 crores, Raza bring??s versatility ?and a wealth of international experience to the table.

Sikandar Raza in the IPL 2025 Auction

Raza previously represented Punjab Kings (PBKS) during the 2023 an??d 2024 seasons. Across nine matches, the 38-year-old scored 182 runs, including a match winning half-century. Additionally, he contributed with the ball, taking three wickets, showcasing his ability to influence games in both departments. Known for his ability to anchor innings and accelerate when needed, Raza is also an effective off-spinner, particularly valuable in subcontinental conditions. His calm temperament and experience in high-pressure situations make him a dependable middle-order option.

Raza’s skill set makes him an attractive target for franchises seeking a reliable all-rounder who can contribute in multiple phases of the game. His past performances for PBKS have already demonstrated his adaptability and match-winning potential.

Also READ: IPL 2025: Moh?ammed Shami returns to ??GT; David Warner joins Virat Kohli’s RCB in K. Srikkanth’s mock auction

IPL 2025: 3 teams who can target Sikandar Raza in the mega auction

1. Chennai Super Kings (CSK)

CSK might target Raza to bolster their all-rounder department, particularly as a backup for aging players like Ravindra Jadeja. Raza’s ability to contribute in middle-order batting and his off-spin adds depth to the team. CSK often looks for experienced, versatile players, aligning with Raza’s profile. His calm temperament can prove valuable in handling pressure situations. With spin-friendly conditions at Chepauk, Raza’s bowling can be a strategic asset. His relatively low base price ensures CSK can secure him without major budget concerns.

2. Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)

LSG could target Raza to strengthen their lower middle order and add an all-rounder who can bat and bowl effectively. Raza’s experience on slow pitches suits LSG’s home ground in Lucknow, where spinners play a crucial role. With Nicholas Pooran and other top-order batters handling the early overs, Raza can finish innings or anchor when needed. His off-spin provides an alternative to LSG’s left-arm and leg-spin options. LSG also values overseas players with adaptability, making Raza a perfect fit. His performance for his national side especially in the high-stakes tournament further showcase his ability in high-stakes games.

3. Rajasthan Royals (RR)

RR might target Raza to enhance their middle-order stability and provide additional bowling flexibility. RR often relies on dynamic all-rounders who can impact the game with both bat and ball, making Raza a valuable addition. At the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur, known for its spin-friendly conditions, Raza’s off-spin could be a game-changer. His ability to counter-attack and finish games in the lower order would complement RR’s aggressive batting philosophy. Additionally, Raza’s leadership experience can benefit a team looking for strategic insights and calmness in pressure scenarios.

PBKS can use RTM option

PBKS have retained their Right-to-Match (RTM) option for Raza, which could be a strategic move to bring him back if bidding intensifies. Having already spent two seasons with PBKS, Raza is familiar with the team dynamics and the roles assigned to him. His memorable performances, including a crucial half-century in IPL 2023, make him a trusted option. Given PBKS’s tendency to invest in utility players, they might use the RTM card to secure a cost-effective all-rounder who can adapt to various match situations. Retaining Raza would also ensure continuity in their overseas player lineup.

Also READ: IPL 2025 Auction: Top 5 uncapped players who ??catch fetch more than five crore

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Sikandar Raza, a Zimbabwean cricketer of Pakistani descent, is known for his versatile skills as an all-rounder. His adaptability with both bat and ball has made him a vital asset for Zimbabwe in all formats of the game. Raza’s aggressive batting style, combined with his off-spin bowling, has often turned games in his team’s favor. Beyond his on-field prowess, Raza’s journey from Pakistan to becoming a cornerstone of Zimbabwean cricket exemplifies his determination and passion for the sport.

Sikandar Raza faces a query regarding representing Pakistan

Recently, Raza organized a Question-and-Answer session on social media for his fans worldwide. In the chat session with his admirers, Sikandar fa??????????????????????????ced many queries and he responded quite a few of them. During the chat he was asked whether he ever thought about playing for Pakistan.

The Zimbabwe stalwart then responded and said that h??e was born in Pakistan but is a product of Zimbabwe cricket and he will only represent the rainbow nation.

“I am a born Pakistani and a product of Zimbabwe Cricket. I will only and ever represent Zimbabwe. Spent time and money on me and I am only trying to repay their faith and whatever I achieve will never even get close to repaying it. Zim is mine and am theirs fully,” wrote Raza on X.

I am a born Paki?stani and a product of Zimbabwe Cricket

I will only and ever represent Zimbabwe 🇿🇼

🇿🇼 spent time? and money on me and I am only trying to repay thei??r faith and whatever I achieve will never even get close to repaying it

Zim is mine and am theirs fully //t.co/Jod5vEXmuM

— Sikandar Raza (@SRazaB24) August 3, 2024

Also ?WATCH: Zimbabwe batter accidently hits the umpire amid animated celebration

Raza names his favourite batters and bowlers

Raza was also quizzed about revealing his favourite batters and bowlers in the international arena. The Zimbabwean T20I skipper went for Indian captain and global superstar Rohit Sharma as his choice along with Zimbabwe veteran Craig Ervine and Pakistan opener Abdullah Shafique.

Among the bowlers, Raza, who is currently part of the Manchester Originals squad in The Hundred 2024, picked Indian pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah, West Indies legend Sunil Narine and Pakistan fast bowler Shaheen Afridi.

Bowlers:
Narine , Bumrah and Shaheen

Batsmen:
Abdullah Shafiq, Craig Ervine and Rohit //t.co/A3mJyhsXSv

— Sikandar Raza (@SRazaB24) August 3, 2024

Also READ: Most fifties scored by Indian bat?ters within the first 10 overs of ODIs?? ft. Rohit Sharma

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Welsh Fire secured a convincing eight-wicket victory over Manchester Originals in the third match of The Hundred’s Men 2024 at Old Trafford.

The Originals, led by Phil Salt, experienced a batting collapse, with David Willey and Joshua Little leading the charge for the Welsh’s bowling attack. The Originals were restricted to a meager 86/8, and the Welsh’s batting lineup clinically chased the target in just 57 deliveries.

David Willey’s destructive spell

Winning the toss, Welsh elected to field, putting the Originals into bat. Willey immediately made an impact by dismissing Phil Salt with the second delivery of the match. Willey’s destructive spell continued as he quickly took two more wickets, leaving the Originals reeling at 4/3 within just 15 balls.

Joshua Little takes out Sikandar Raza with a beauty

With the Originals in deep trouble, Sikandar Raza joined Wayne Madsen in an attempt to stabilize the innings. However, Raza’s stay was cut short by Little.

On the second delivery of the sixth set, Little bowled a good-length delivery around the off stump that nipped back in, catching Raza off guard. Raza attempted a defensive shot but the ball hit the under ?edge of the bat and crashed into the stumps, sending Raza back to the pavilion. This left the? Originals at a precarious 19/4 after 27 balls.

Here’s the video:

Uh oh. Manchester Originals are in BIG trouble! 😬#TheHundred pic.twitter.com/1NZoWeqvun

— The Hundred (@thehundred) July 25, 2024

Also WATCH: Chris Jordan’s inch-pe?rfect yorker rattles Olly Stone’s stumps in The Hundred Men’s 2024

Manchester Originals’ struggle and late-stage recovery 

The wickets kept falling, leaving the team at a precarious 35/6 by the halfway point. Early dismissals of key players like Salt and Laurie Evans added pressure to the batting lineup. The Originals’ batting lineup continued to falter with Usama Mir‘s dismissal on the 54th delivery, exacerbating their troubles.

Despite the grim situation, Jamie Overton and Scott Currie stepped up in the final stages. Overton’s aggressive play and Currie’s steady support forged a crucial 36-run partnership, adding vital runs to the scoreboard. Their resilience under pressure ensured the Originals reached a total of 86/8 after their 100 deliveries, providing a semblance of hope for their bowling unit.

Welsh Fire’s commanding chase

In response, Welsh’s openers, Tom Kohler-Cadmore and Jonny Bairstow, got off to a flying start, quickly amassing 37 runs without loss a??fter 20 deliveries. The Originals managed a breakthrough when Currie dismissed? Kohler-Cadmore on the 21st delivery. Nevertheless, with only 39 runs needed from 75 deliveries, the Fire were in a commanding position.

Paul Walter then removed Bairstow on the 28th delivery, bringing captain Tom Abell to the crease. Abell, along with Joe Clarke, steadily guide?d the Fire closer to victory. The pair comfortably steered their team to an eight-wicket win, reaching the target with 43 balls to spare.

Also READ: ??The Hundred Men’s 2024 �?Broa??dcast and Live Streaming Details | When and where to watch in India, Australia, USA, UK, Caribbean & other countries

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Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) have officially named their squad for the upcoming five-game T20I series against Team India, scheduled to begin on July 6 in Harare. This series mark an important phase for Zimbabwean cricket as they look to rebuild and improve their standing in international cricket under new head coach Justin Sammons.

Leadership and experience of Sikandar Raza

Experienced cricketer Sikandar Raza has been appointed as the captain of the Zimbabwean team. 38 year-old, Raza brings a wealth of experience to the squad, having played 86 T20I matches. His leadership will be crucial in guiding a relatively young and inexperienced team against the formidable Indian side. Raza’s experience and skill will be pivotal in the middle order and his all-round capabilities add valuable depth to the squad.

Young and promising talent

Zimbabwe have opted for a youthful squad in this series, signalling a new era under coach Sammons. One of the most notable inclusions is Antum Naqvi, a Belgium-born cricketer with Pakistani heritage, whose final inclusion in the squad is subject to the confirmation of his citizenship status. Naqvi’s international ?journey and desire to represent Zimbabwe have made headlines, and his addition could bring fresh energy and talent to the team.

Zimbabwe Cricket MD Givemore Makoni speaks on Antum ?Naqvi in The Herald this ??morning:

“Antum is set to become a Zimbabw?e player. He is one new face that has been picked by the selectors and we are happy to have him on ?the team.

“He brings balance with both bat and ball and the�?pic.twitter.com/1Rbpc8uI5o

— Adam Theo🇿🇼🏏 (@AdamTheofilatos) June 27, 2024

Also READ: BCCI unveils Team India’s T20I squad for the Zimba??bwe tour; Shubman Gill to lead

Key bowlers

The squad features seasoned pace bowlers Richard Ngarava and Blessing Muzarabani, who have?? enough T20I appearances under their belt. Their experience will be critical in leading the bowling attack, providing stability, and taking crucial wickets against the strong I?ndian batting lineup. These bowlers have been instrumental in past performances and will look to leverage their skills to contain the Indian batters.

Notable absentees

Veteran players Craig Ervine and Sean Williams have not been considered for selection in this series, which might come as a surprise to many fans. Their absence could be part of a strategic move to infuse new talent into the team. Additionally, players like Ryan Burl, Joylord Gumbie and Ainsley Ndlovu ?did not make the cut for this series, indicating a ??significant shift towards a younger squad.

Rebuilding phase

The squad selection reflects Zimbabwe’s intent to rebuild after their disappointing failure to qualify for the recent T20 World Cup. With a mix of experienced players like Raza and Luke Jongwe, who has played 63 T20Is, and young talents, the team is poised to develop a balanced and competitive side. This series against India provides an excellen??t platform for the younger players to gain invaluable experience and showcase their abilities on the i??nternational stage.

Zimbabwe squad for the T20I series against India:

Sikandar Raza (c), Akram Faraz, Bennett Brian, Campbell Johnathan, Chatara Tendai, Luke Jongwe, Innocent Kaia, Clive Madande, Wessly Madhevere, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Wellington Masakadza, Brandon Mavuta, Blessing Muzarabani, Dion Myers, Antum Naqvi (subject to citizenship confirmation), Richa?rd Ngarava, Milton Shumba.

Also READ: Shivam Dube replaces injured Nitish Reddy; here’s India’s rev?ised T20I squad for the Zimbabwe tour

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Sikandar Raza, the star all-rounder from Zimbabwe, is renowned not only for his batting and bowling skills but also for his exceptional fielding abilities. His agility and sharp reflexes make him a vital asset in the field, often turning potential boundaries into crucial wickets with his stunning catches and quick reactions. Raza’s fielding prowess was on full display during the T20 Blast 2024 match between Northamptonshire and Worcestershire, where he executed one of the most memorable catches of the tourname??nt.

Sikandar Raza’s brilliant catch to dismiss Adam Hose

The highlight of the match came in the 13th over of Worcestershire’s run chase when Raza took a breathtaking catch to dismiss Adam Hose. Hose, who had been batting fluently with 30 runs off 21 balls, including two sixes and as many boundaries, attempted to clear long-off with a powerful shot off a pitched-up delivery from Saif Zaib.

Raza sprinted to his right and, in a moment of sheer brilliance, dived to take a stunning catch just inches inside the boundary ropes. This spectacular effort left the crowd and players in awe, demonstrating Raza’s exceptional fielding skills and turning the momentum in Northamptonshire’s favor.

Here is the video:

Mammoth sixes, a magn??ificent catch, and a ?stunning final over 🔥

Tap the vi?deo to watch highlights of a belting match between Northamptonshire Steelbacks and Worcestershire Rapids

— Vitality Blast (@VitalityBlast) June 7, 2024

Also WA?TCH: Towhid Hridoy’s hat-trick of sixes against Wanindu Hasaranga | SL vs BAN, T20 World Cup 202??4

Northamptonshire reach a competitive total

After winning the toss, Northamptonshire opted to bat first but faced early setbacks, losing four wickets for just 90 runs. The innings seemed to be faltering un?til Raza and Zaib stepped in to stabilize the situation. Raza played a composed and unbeaten knock of 42 runs from 31 deliveries, showcasing his ability to anchor the innings?? while still maintaining a healthy strike rate. His innings included three towering sixes and two boundaries. Zaib complemented Raza perfectly, scoring an unbeaten 44 runs and forming a crucial 79-run partnership for the fifth wicket. Their efforts helped Northamptonshire post a competitive total of 169/4 in 20 overs.

Worcestershire’s fall 6 runs short in the chase

Chasing 170 for victory, Worcestershire had a mixed start with contributions from key batsmen but struggled to maintain consistency. Hose provided some early momentum with a brisk 30 off 21 balls, and Gareth Roderick kept the chase alive with a quick-fire 39 off 22 deliveries. However, despite their efforts, the team couldn’t find enough support from the rest of the lineup.

Zaib’s exceptional performance with the ball, taking three wickets for just 20 runs in his four overs, further dented Worcestershire’s chances. Ultimately, they fell short, managing 163/9 in their 20 overs, and lost the match by a narrow margin of 6 runs.

Also WATCH: T20 World Cup – Fazalhaq Farooqi cleans up Finn Allen with a beauty in NZ vs AFG game

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In the concluding encounter of the Zimbabwe tour of Bangladesh 2024, the Shere Bangla National Stadi??um witnessed an intense battle between the hosts and visitors. Zimbabwe, determined to salvage their pride? after a string of defeats, won the toss and elected to bowl first.

Mahmudullah shines for Bangladesh

Bangladesh, put in to bat, posted a competitive total of 157/6 in their allotted 20 overs. Mahmudullah emerged as the standout performer for the hosts, smashing 54 runs off 44 deliveries, ably supported by Najmul Hossain Shanto (36 runs off 28 balls) and Jaker Ali Anik (24 runs off 11 balls). However, Zimbabwe’s bowlers, led by Blessing Muzarabani (2 wickets for 22 runs) and Brian Bennett (2 wickets for 20 runs), kept the scoring in check?.

Brian Bennett and Sikandar Raza smashes match-winning half-centuries

In response, Zimbabwe chased down the target with ease, finishing at 158/2 in just 18.3 overs. Brian Bennett‘s blistering knock of 70 runs off 49 balls, supported by Sikandar Raza‘s aggressive 72 runs off 46 balls, powered Zimbabwe to victory. Despite a valiant effort by Bangladesh’s bowlers, Zimbabwe’s batsmen dominated the proceedings, securing an emphatic eight-wicket win.

Player of the Match

For his exceptional all-round performance, Br??ian Bennett was named the Player of the Match, capping off a memorable outing for the Zimbabwean team.

Also READ: Cricket West Ind??ies announces home fixtures; to host South A??frica before T20 World Cup 2024

While Bangladesh had dominated the earlier matches in the series, winning the first four encounters convincingly, Zimbabwe’s victory in the final T20I provided them with a much-needed morale boost. With the series now concluded, Bangladesh emerges victorious, having clinched the series 4-1.

Here’s how Twitter reacted:

Brian Bennett and Sikandar Raza power Zimbabwe to a consolation eight-wicket win 👏#BANvZIM pic.twitter.com/ZPeqBvU4F5

— Zimbabwe Cricket (@ZimCricketv) May 12, 2024

Mahmudullah Riad achieves his 8th T20i fifty in style at the SBNCS, Mirpur.🌟🏏#BANvZIM #BCB #Cricket pic.twitter.com/Et8SxhQDjn

— Bangladesh Cricket (@BCBtigers) May 12, 2024

Finally Zimbabwe wins
Well done to #Raza for steering the team to a Great Win
#BANvZIM

Thank you for The live stream pic.twitter.com/a6HoTr0L8V

— NdauTribe (@RangaNaiti) May 12, 2024

It’s a consolation win for Zimbabwe but an emphatic one at that. Sikandar Raza and Brian Bennett power the Chevrons to an 8 wicket win over full strength Bangladesh in Dhaka!🇿🇼 pic.twitter.com/or0HS9KvdS

— Adam Theo🇿🇼🏏 (@AdamTheofilatos) May 12, 2024

#BANvZIM pic.twitter.com/eKxoQgSjDi

— Khalid Masum (@khalidmasum247) May 12, 2024

Raza fails in the first 4 matches, and Zimbabwe lost all the 4 matches. Raza scores a Half-Century and Zimbabwe wins this match. Zimbabwe is too reliant on Skipper, which is not good for any team. Others need to step up too !!#SikandarRaza #BanvZim #BanvsZim #T20I pic.twitter.com/0rqdH3rfNe

— Mustafa Moudi (@Mustafamoudi) May 12, 2024

My man Sikandar Raza Finally Doing it For Zimbabwe 🥹❤️😍#BANvZIM #ZIMvBAN pic.twitter.com/fNgxwEbfu4

— Devendra 🇮🇳 (@Devendra786s) May 12, 2024

Stand and Deliver! Sikandar Raza tonks one over the leg side boundary for a massive 6! pic.twitter.com/fVYWd27EAI

— Adam Theo🇿🇼🏏 (@AdamTheofilatos) May 12, 2024

Not really bothered by the fact that Bd couldn’t whitewash.. however, I am so happy for Sikandar Raza he really deserves it🩷 pic.twitter.com/FRBlEQuivg

— 𝐍𝐚𝐳𝐢𝐛𝐚🌹 (@naziba_rose77) May 12, 2024

Zimbabwe beat Bangladesh by ??8 wickets today 🔥❤️.

Sikandar Raza 72 runs just 46 balls today 5th t20. pic.twitter.com/eVN3O1oRgr

— Malik Hammad (@Hammad_Iqbal786) May 12, 2024

Also READ: Latest ICC Rankings

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In a move reminiscent of star footballer Cristiano Ronaldo, Zimbabwe’s cricket team captain, Sikandar Raza, took a swipe at sponsors during a press meet for the upcoming T20I series against Bangladesh.

Sikandar Raza removes Coca Cola bottles from the table

Raza was seen on camera deliberately picking up bottles of Coca-Cola, a major sponsor of the event, and placing them out of sight under the table. This act mirrored Ronaldo’s now-famous gesture at Euro 2020, where he pushed aside bottles of the same beverage, promoting water instead.

Sikandar Raza did a Cristiano Ronaldo, and removed the Coca Cola bottles from the press conference in Bangladesh today. Respect ❤️ #BANvZIM @SRazaB24 #Palestine pic.twitter.com/FUc4cnMI1V

— Safeera Kiran (@itssafeera77) May 2, 2024

The reasons behind Raza’s actions remain unclear. Ronaldo, a known advocate for healthy living, had earlier expressed his disapproval of sugary drinks. Whether Raza shares similar sentiments or was making a different statement entirely is yet to be determined.

This incident has sparked discussions on athlete sponsorship deals and the influence they hold. It remains to be seen if Raza will face any repercussions from the event or??ganizers or Coca-Cola themselves. The act is sure to generate significant buzz on social media and cricket forums in the coming days.

Here’s the video:

🚨 Sikanda??r Raza removed the Coca-Cola bottle from the table. 👀

[Clip Credit: @BDCricTime] pic.twitter.com/zmpOUqlWYJ

— Shamim. (@ShamimCricSight) May 2, 2024

Also READ: Bangladesh vs Zimbabwe 2024, T20I series – Date, Match Time, Venue, Squads, Broadcast and Live Streaming details

Bangladesh gears up for the T20 World Cup with Zimbabwe series

With the T20 World Cup fast approaching (kicking o?ff June 2nd), Bangladesh will use the upcoming five-match T20I series against Zimbabwe as a crucial preparation step.

Zimbabwe, who fell short of qualifying for the World Cup after losses to Namibia and Uganda in the Africa Region Qualifier, will be looking to upset the higher-ranked Bangladesh team (currently 9th in the ICC T20I rankings). Led by captain Najmul Hossain Shanto, Bangladesh are the clear favourites on ho?me soil.

However, under the leaders?hip of Sikandar Raza, ??Zimbabwe are determined to challenge Bangladesh and potentially disrupt their T20 WC preparations.

Also READ: Kumar Sangakkara explains why the Indian?? squad is strong for the T20 World Cup 2024

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In a thrilling showdown in ILT20 UAE 2024 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Sikandar Raza played the role of the hero for Dubai Capitals. His spectacular performance included a last-ball six, helping Capitals in registering a remarkable five-wicket victory against Desert Vipers on Friday, February 9.

Desert Vipers’ solid start

Sent in to bat first by the Capitals skipper Sam Billings, the Vipers made an impressive start, forging a 66-run partnership in 4.2 overs with openers Alex Hales and Philip Salt. This partnership, managed in just four overs, saw its end with Salt’s departure in the fifth over due to Roelof van der Merwe. By the conclusion of the powerplay, Vipers reached 80/1, anchored by Daniel Lawerence and Hales.

However, van der Merwe claimed his second breakthrough in the ninth over by dismissing Lawrence. Olly Stone‘s effective bowling further controlled the Vipers’ onslaught, accounting for Hales and Colin Munro as the scorecard read 118/4 in 11.3 overs. The Vipers faced challenges in the middle overs, struggling to generate big hits and witnessing a cascade of wickets. With Sam Curran and Adam Hose dismissed, the Vipers concluded their innings with a sco??re of 171/7 in 20 overs

Dubai Capitals’ top-order woes

Chasing a target of 172, the Capitals faced early setbacks with the Vipers’ bowlers showing determination. Curran and Mohammad Amir struck early blows, leaving the Capitals at 38/3 by the end of the powerplay. Despite the collapse, Sikandar Raza and Billings stitched a crucial 79-run partnership, bringing the Capitals to 111/3 in 14 overs. However, the Vipers found a breakthrough with Billings’ wicket in the 15th over.

Also READ: ILT20 2024: C??omplete squads of all six teams with their captains

Sikandar Raza’s match-winning six

With Raza and Dasun Shanaka at the crease, Dubai Capitals needed 13 runs off the last over. Raza showcased nerves of steel, absorbing the pressure and delivering a stunning finish. Requiring six runs off the last ball, Raza held his composure and smashed a well-timed six, securing a sensational last-ball victory. Ali Naseer‘s delivery was perfectly in Raza’s hitting zone, and he dispatched it over the long-off fielder for a maximum.

Here’s the video:

Dubai Capitals stay alive by the skin of their teeth & they ha?ve Raza to thank 🙇🙌

6 needed on the last ball & the 🇿🇼 maestro deposits it over long off 🤯#DVvDC | #KoiKasarNahiChhodenge | #DPWorldILT20onZee pic.twitter.com/iygmkvjHCl

— Zee Cricket (@ilt20onzee) February 9, 2024

Raza’s ILT20 2024 brilliance

Raza’s heroics in this match added to his impressive performance in ILT20 2024. He is currently the second-highest scorer for the Capitals, amassing 263 runs at an average of 37.57 across nine games. Raza’s contribution has been pivotal, making him the standout performer in the Capitals’ batting lineup.

Also READ: ILT20 2024: Broadcast and Live Streaming details – When & Where to Watch in India, Pakistan, Australia, US, UK & other countries

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