Defeat hard to swallow: Raza

Eddie Chikamhi Senior Sports Reporter
ALL-ROUNDER Sikandar Raza yesterday apologised for the disappointing defeat to the United Arab Emirates which cost Zimbabwe a place at next year’s ICC World Cup. Raza, who was one of the outstanding players during the ICC World Cup Qualifier, had hoped to cap his fine form by helping the Chevrons seal a spot at next year’s cricket jamboree in England.
But back-to-back defeats to West Indies and UAE shattered the dream.

“One of the toughest pill to swallow for all of us together and the tears we shed yesterday describes the pain we all felt for everyone and for those who supported us.

“Our fans and families and friends deserved better and all I can say is that we are truly very sorry,” said Raza on Twitter yesterday.
Zimbabwe were given a revised target of 230 runs from 40 overs after rains had forced a premature end to the UAE innings just before lunch.

However, the Chevrons could only manage 226 /7.
The result meant Zimbabwe will not be part of the World Cup to be hosted in England next year for the first time since 1983.
The Chevrons kept the nations hopes high with some spirited performances from the group stages where they finished top with wins over Nepal, Afghanistan and Hong Kong and then a tie against Scotland.

They also had an important win over Ireland in the Super Sixes, but then slipped up against the West Indies who beat them by four wickets.

The dream was still on despite the defeat as they needed to win the last game against UAE and forget about what happens elsewhere.

However, that slip up against UAE proved fatal and it opened the doors for Afghanistan to join West Indies as the qualifying teams from the tournament.

On reflection, there have been many questions asked leading to Zimbabwe’s capitulation on Thursday.
Why did they bowl first when they won the toss, when they had won most of their important matches batting first?
Why bowl first when the weather forecasts had been clear that there were high chances of precipitation?

Why did they drop Cephas Zhuwao when they needed the momentum to kick-start their innings? Did they have the right mental fortitude to handle the pressure of this game?
Did they underrate UAE?

Answers may be difficult to get, but Cremer was clear on their decision to bowl first.
“We were a bit unsure, but we backed ourselves whatever we do, bat or bowl, we knew if we did that properly we would come out on top,” said Cremer.

“We probably gave them a few too many to earn 40 overs with the bat. That cost us, but we still backed ourselves to chase 230 in 40 overs, but a poor start again and we kept losing wickets in that first power play.
“I suppose when we were batting we got a few partnerships going, but we lost wickets at crucial periods. When Raza got out, that was crucial for us because he could have won that game with a couple of overs to spare with the way he was playing.”