Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) have launched a contemporary face to steer their T20 Worldwide (T20I) aspect. This choice comes simply previous to the T20 World Cup 2024 qualifiers slated for the next month, the place Zimbabwe has its sights set on securing a spot within the marquee occasion within the USA and the Caribbean subsequent 12 months.
A brand new skipper takes the helm
Remarkably, Zimbabwe has chosen Sikandar Raza, a celebrated all-rounder who plies his commerce with Punjab Kings (PBKS) within the Indian Premier League (IPL), to imagine the function of captain within the T20I format. This determination represents a notable shift in management for Zimbabwean cricket, with the intent to rejuvenate the staff’s T20I efficiency.
ZC’s official affirmation of Raza’s appointment because the T20I captain was made on Sunday. Hailing from Sialkot, Pakistan, the 37-year-old all-rounder has been an integral a part of the Zimbabwean worldwide cricket setup since 2013, boasting intensive expertise and a flexible talent set.
A change in management
Raza steps in because the successor to the skilled Craig Ervine, who previously led the staff throughout all codecs however will now solely captain Zimbabwe in Take a look at matches and One-Day Internationals (ODIs).
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Along with the captaincy change, the Zimbabwe Cricket Board has opted to retain Dave Houghton as the pinnacle coach, specializing in the approaching T20 World Cup qualifiers. Houghton’s function has additionally expanded to incorporate participation within the choice panel, alongside the continuing convenor of selectors, David Mutendra. Former captain Elton Chigumbura is the most recent addition to the choice panel.
A stellar document and excessive expectations
Raza, a distinguished determine in T20I cricket, boasts a formidable document of 71 appearances, 1436 runs, and 42 wickets. His notable achievements embrace eight half-centuries, together with his greatest bowling efficiency being 4/8.
With Raza taking up the management of the T20I staff and the inclusion of skilled people within the choice panel, Zimbabwe are poised to raise its T20I efficiency, aiming to safe a spot within the upcoming T20 World Cup.