Online Reporter
SIKANDAR Raza has confirmed he will join Zimbabwe’s squad for this month’s historic Test against England at Trent Bridge, even as the Pakistan Super League (PSL) resumes tomorrow following a security-enforced pause.
Raza had been in scintillating form for Lahore Qalandars in PSL 2025, amassing 228 runs at an average of 45.60 and a strike rate of 163. He also claimed eight wickets at 15.10, with an impressive economy rate of 7.10.
He topped the franchise’s charts for both batting and bowling efficiency, by some distance their most valuable player this season.
However, with the PSL suspended indefinitely due to escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, the league was left in limbo and is only set to resume tomorrow. Lahore Qalandars, currently fourth on the table, have one league fixture remaining — against Peshawar Zalmi on 18 May in Rawalpindi. Should they qualify for the final, Raza would be required to remain in Pakistan until May 25.
Meanwhile, Zimbabwe have named Raza in the squad for the one-off Test against England at Trent Bridge — their first Test meeting since 2004 — scheduled to begin on 22 May, right in the middle of the PSL playoffs.
That potential clash of commitments was addressed by Raza himself, who posted on X.
“I’ve been tagged and mentioned regarding my availability for PSL and the historic Test match in England. National duty is the top priority for me and once picked I will honour and fulfil it.
All the reports of me missing the Test match are not true at all. Regarding PSL, all the reports of me not returning to Pakistan are also not true,” he wrote.
Raza last played a Test earlier this year against Afghanistan in Bulawayo. From 18 Tests, he has scored 1 286 runs at an average of 36.74 and taken 38 wickets at 40.78. — wisden.com/Zimpapers Sports Hub
