Veteran all-rounder Sikandar Raza etched his name in Zimbabwean cricket history by becoming the first male player to achieve a hat-trick in T20I cricket. His remarkable feat came against Rwanda during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Region Qualifier 2023. Raza’s hat-trick, dismissing Muhammad Nadir, Zappy Bimenyimana, and Emile Rukiriza, played a pivotal role in securing a comprehensive 144-run victory for Zimbabwe, keeping their T20 World Cup 2024 qualification hopes alive.
Raza’s impressive performance wasn’t limited to his bowling prowess. He also contributed significantly with the bat, forming a solid opening partnership with Tadiwanashe Marumani and contributing a valuable 44-run knock-off Ryan Burl’s bowling. Zimbabwe’s collective effort resulted in a commanding 215-run total.
Rwanda’s run chase faltered from the outset, with Richard Ngarava’s exceptional opening spell putting the pressure on the Rwandan batsmen. Raza’s hat-trick sealed the deal for Zimbabwe, ensuring a convincing victory.
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Zimbabwe’s victory places them fourth in the points table, trailing Namibia, Uganda, and Kenya. Despite the uphill battle, Sikandar Raza’s heroics have rekindled Zimbabwe’s T20 World Cup aspirations. Raza’s hat-trick comes at a crucial juncture, following his stint with Punjab Kings in IPL 2023.
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Despite being picked up at his base price, Raza’s performance in the IPL was underwhelming. He managed to score 119 runs in seven matches and picked up only three wickets. Despite his IPL struggles, Punjab Kings retained Sikandar Raza for the 2024 season, demonstrating their belief in his abilities. Raza’s hat-trick and crucial runs against Rwanda serve as a fitting response to their faith.
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To cement his place in the Zimbabwe T20 World Cup squad and justify his retention by Punjab Kings, Sikandar Raza needs to maintain his current form. His all-round contributions will be crucial in Zimbabwe’s quest for T20 World Cup qualification and his own personal success in the IPL.
