Online Reporter
CRICKET lovers from across the globe have hailed Sikandar Raza for topping the latest International Cricket Council Men’s ODI All-Rounder Rankings.
Raza became the top-ranked player following a string of standout performances against Sri Lanka in a recent ODI series at Harare Sports Club. Raza, who struck two half-centuries in the just-ended two-match series, also impressed with the ball, returning figures of one for 48 from 10 overs in the first ODI.
His efforts, despite Zimbabwe losing the series, lifted him past Afghanistan’s Mohammad Nabi (292 points) and Azmatullah Omarzai (296) to the number one position with a rating of 302.
The 38-year-old’s batting exploits also earned him a surge in the ODI Batting Rankings, climbing nine places to sit at number 22.
In a message yesterday, Raza said:
“Now the emotions have settled I would like to thank Zimbabwe, Zimbabwe Cricket and Zimbabweans for their unwavering love, support and prayers as without it this dream of mine wouldn’t have been possible
“To my teammates past and present of national team and franchise cricket, this wouldn’t have been possible without the lessons you all shared.
“To my family and fans all across the globe for the prayers and support I have had over the years.”
Raza was showered with praises with Sajjad Ahmed posting:
“That’s such a beautiful and humble message. Truly inspiring! Many congratulations on your achievement, you deserve every bit of it. Wishing you more success and blessings ahead, Insha’Allah.” Another one said,” Always proud of you champion, keep making us smile with your success.” Jeff Murimbechi added:
“You deserve all the praise from cricket lovers, quite a role model and a man of faith.”
Meanwhile, Zimbabwe Cricket managing director, Givemore Makoni hailed Raza’s achievement, describing it as a milestone for both the player and the nation.
“We are immensely proud of Sikandar Raza for rising to the very top of the ICC ODI All-Rounder Rankings,” he said.
“His consistency, resilience and match-winning qualities continue to inspire not only his teammates but the whole of Zimbabwe.”
Makoni also commended the efforts of senior teammate Sean Williams, who rose seven places to number 16 on the ODI All-Rounder Rankings and moved three places up to number 47 in the ODI Batting Rankings.
“Sean Williams has also shown once again why he is such a vital part of our team, with his consistent contributions both with bat and ball,” he said.
“We extend our appreciation to him and indeed the entire squad for their fighting spirit and encouraging displays against Sri Lanka.”
On the bowling front, Richard Ngarava remains Zimbabwe’s highest-ranked bowler, climbing two places to number 20 on the ODI Bowling Rankings, while Raza follows at number 38.As a team, Zimbabwe sit at number 11 on the ICC Men’s ODI Team Rankings.
Makoni said the latest rankings update reflected a positive trajectory for Zimbabwe cricket.These rankings movements show that our players are competing hard at the highest level,” he said.
“While results did not go our way against Sri Lanka, the individual performances point to a promising future as we continue building towards greater success.” — ZimCricket/Sports Reporter
