Online Reporter
Brandon Moyo, Zimpapers Sports Hub
ZIMBABWE T20I captain Sikandar Raza endured another difficult night as his International League T20 side Sharjah Warriors slipped to a third straight defeat, going down by six wickets to Gulf Giants in the 2025 campaign.
The loss leaves Sharjah Warriors rooted to the bottom of the log with zero points after three matches, a worrying return for a side still searching for rhythm and confidence.
Raza’s personal outing was a mixed one. He followed up his gallant half-century in the previous match with a brief stay at the crease, but produced a spirited spell with the ball that briefly offered his side hope.
Sent in to bat first, Sharjah Warriors struggled to build sustained momentum and were limited to 157 for six from their 20 overs. Gulf Giants reached the target in 19.4 overs, finishing on 158 for four.
Raza walked in at number six with his team wobbling on 94 for four in the 13.3 overs. His stay was short. He managed three runs from seven balls before being trapped in front by Liam Dawson, leaving the Warriors on 99 for five.
The late resistance came from Dwaine Pretorius, who struck an unbeaten 36 from just 17 deliveries to push the total past 150. Johnson Charles scored 36 off 32 balls, while Kusal Mendis added a brisk 23 from 15.
Aayan Afzal Khan led the Gulf Giants bowling effort with figures of three for 17 from four overs. Mark Adair claimed two wickets, while Dawson finished with one.
Defending the total, Raza again stood up for his side. He delivered the first breakthrough by having James Vince caught for 35 off 28 balls. Adil Rashid then bowled Moeen Ali for 14 off 13 deliveries before Raza removed the dangerous Rahmanullah Gurbaz, who made 50 from 36 balls.
Despite those strikes, the damage had already been done. Raza ended with impressive figures of two for 20 from his four overs and was the pick of the Sharjah Warriors bowlers. Rashid and Tim Southee picked up one wicket each.
Gurbaz top scored for Gulf Giants as they kept their chase on track with minimal alarm.
After a bruising start to the tournament, Raza and Sharjah Warriors will look for a reset when they face Mumbai Indians Emirates in Abu Dhabi this afternoon.
