Online Reporter
Brandon Moyo, Zimpapers Sports Hub
ZIMBABWE T20I captain Sikandar Raza is turning his debut SA20 season into something unforgettable, and on Sunday he produced one of the tournament’s most commanding performances to bowl Paarl Royals to a crushing seven-wicket victory over MI Cape Town.
Raza was at the heart of everything that mattered. He claimed four wickets at a miserly 3.25 runs per over, ripping through the Cape Town batting order and leaving them bundled out for just 88 runs. It was their lowest score batting first in SA20 history and the lowest first-innings total at Newlands across all four editions of the competition.
With the damage done, Paarl Royals made light work of the chase. They reached the target in 13 overs, closing on 90 for three to seal their third win of the season and underline their growing momentum. Raza struck early and never let go. He removed Rassie van der Dussen for 14 off 11 balls, then bowled Jason Smith for four off six deliveries. George
Linde followed, caught and bowled for one off two balls, before Rashid Khan fell for a golden duck off the very next delivery.
The Chevrons great was just as sharp in the field, holding on to two catches to dismiss Reeza Hendricks and Corbin Bosch, completing a dominant all-round display.
He finished with figures of four for 13 from his four overs, the second-best bowling return in the tournament so far. Only one boundary was conceded — a four off the second ball of his opening over — as MI Cape Town struggled to find any release. Speaking after being named Player of the Match, Raza said the performance carried extra meaning because it came in a winning cause. He also reflected on finally getting the chance to feature in a tournament he had long admired, and reserved special praise for his captain David Miller.
“It’s nice to win the game and know your contribution in a win feels more special. I’ve heard great things about this tournament but due to clashes I couldn’t come in year 2 or 3. When I talk to the SA boys in the circuit, they’ve all said good things about it. Can’t ask for more with this POTM award.
“Miller, as a captain, he’s always there when you’re bowling and he’s always calm. It rubs off on the bowlers too. He doesn’t speak much but let his bat and captaincy do the talking. I’ve played a lot against him. Wonderful to play with him,” said Raza.
Raza and his Paarl Royals teammates return to action on Thursday when they face Super Kings in Johannesburg.
