Raza rubbishes claims

Sports Reporter

CHEVRONS all-rounder was yesterday forced to issue a statement declaring his commitment to the four-day Test match against England next week amid claims he had pulled out to play domestic T20 cricket in Pakistan.

Social media was awash with claims that Raza had opted to stay with his T20 team in the Pakistan Super League, which is set to resume after being suspended amid military tension between Pakistan and India.

Raza, who is currently the 10th highest scorer in the PSL season, has been in good form for the Lahore Qalandars with 228 runs in eight innings at an average of 45.60.

For him to play as many as eight matches to date, Raza had been excused from Zimbabwe’s tour of Bangladesh for a two-match Test series, which triggered accusations that he is not fully committed to the Chevrons’ cause.

“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,” said Raza in his public statement.

Raza’s critics feel he only wants to feature in high-profile series or matches, arguing that his strengths against spin bowling should have made it automatic that he featured against Bangladesh and not England.

The all-rounder’s statement drew mixed reactions.

One said:

“Sikandar Raza, this kind of misinformation can be frustrating, but I commend your handling of the situation. As a Zimbabwean cricket fan, I’ve always admired your dedication to the national team, and your presence on the field adds so much value.

“Your performance in the PSL has also been impressive, and it’s great to see you representing the country on the international stage. Thank you for being a shining example of sportsmanship and integrity. We need more athletes like you. Well done.”

Another said:

“This makes no sense! Zimbabwe didn’t select you for the Bangladesh tour, where there were two Test matches and spinning wickets. Now, they’ve selected you for the only Test against England, but the conditions favour pacers.  Are you even going to play in the 11?”