Online Reporter
Blessing Malinganiza, Zimpapers Sports Hub
WHILE franchise cricket continues to offer lucrative opportunities around the world, Sikandar Raza says nothing compares to representing Zimbabwe.
The veteran all-rounder has reaffirmed his commitment to national duty, insisting that playing for the Chevrons remains the greatest privilege of his cricket career despite an increasingly demanding international schedule.
Raza returns to the Zimbabwe squad for the One Day International (ODI) series against Bangladesh, which gets underway today, after missing the historic Test series victory over the Tigers.
His return gives Zimbabwe a timely boost as the team looks to carry the confidence from its Test success into the white-ball format.
Now one of the most recognisable names in franchise cricket, the 40-year-old has spent much of the year fulfilling commitments around the world. However, Raza says he has made a promise to Zimbabwe Cricket and the fans that international duty will always take precedence, particularly in limited-overs cricket.
“I hold my international commitments, especially with Zimbabwe, very high. I made a promise that I will not miss a white-ball game. When it comes to Test cricket, I will play whatever fixtures we have, but probably half of them because it will be very difficult for me to play eight to 10 Test matches, or even six Tests in a year. I said I will be available for three of them,” said Raza.
Although he was unable to be part of the squad that secured a memorable Test series victory over Bangladesh, Raza said he took great pride in watching his teammates succeed.
For him, Zimbabwe’s success is more important than individual achievements.
“To see the team win without me makes me happy as well. But since I made that promise with Zimbabwe Cricket and the fans that I will not miss a white-ball game, as much as it is sad to miss some opportunities, I am actually happy that I am going to represent my country. For me, that is the ultimate honour.”
Raza’s decision to prioritise Zimbabwe has at times meant sacrificing opportunities in franchise cricket, including commitments with English county side Worcestershire.
Despite that, the all-rounder says he remains grateful for the opportunities available to him and hopes to return whenever circumstances allow.
“Hopefully, when the opportunity comes and Worcester want me back, I will come back in a heartbeat,” he added.
As Zimbabwe turn their attention to the ODI series, the team will once again look to Raza for leadership, experience and match-winning performances.
Over the years, he has become one of the pillars of Zimbabwean cricket, and his return provides a major lift as the Chevrons seek to continue their strong run of form against Bangladesh.
For Raza, however, the motivation remains simple — whenever Zimbabwe calls, he wants to be there.
