Sikandar Raza hopes Zimbabwe players shine at Zim Afro T10 2024

The Zim Afro T10 2024 is studded with plenty of international stars, none more so than former Australia batter David Warner, who is set to play in the tournament for the first time. Ahead of the start of the tournament, all-rounder Sikandar Raza says that he wants the Zimbabwean players to be among the run-scorers and wicket-takers. 

“We have attracted a lot more international cricketers, with the likes of David Warner, one of the main signings of the season this year. What T10 has done with the signings this year in all the six franchises, this is going to be a very exciting tournament for sure," Raza said. 

“But more importantly, what I'm looking for is that I'm hoping and praying and wishing that it's a Zimbabwean who scores the most number of runs, takes the most number of catches, and takes the most number of wickets because our the growth for Zimbabwean cricket in this tournament is very crucial and that's what I am looking forward to,” the Zimbabwe captain asserted. 

The likes of James Neesham, Colin Munro, and Dawid Malan are some of the other big signings in the tournament this season. Still, Zimbabwe fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani is the only local player to have been signed as a Global Icon player by NYS Lagos. Raza, the T20I skipper, is pleased with that.

“Certainly, very happy with that; Blessing has done really well over the past year, and he has suddenly earned that right to be a Global Icon as well. As long as there is Zimbabwean representation, it makes me happy, regardless of who that is. So, I'm really happy and proud of Blessing," Raza said.

Regarding the upcoming season, Raza, who believes the T10 format can take cricket into the Olympics, said, “I know I am in a different team from last season, but the mentality is the same. To win the trophy and if I can contribute towards the winning of the trophy, that’ll be the best thing. Cricket is a team game, but filled with individual brilliance and if I can contribute for the success of the team, it will go a long way.” 

The second edition of Zim Afro T10 gets underway on September 21 (Saturday), with Durban Wolves taking on Joburg Bangla Tigers at the Harare Sports Club.

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