Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza has described the opportunity to play in the ODI World Cup hosted by his home country as a blessing. He acknowledges that his illustrious international career is now nearing its end. The 2027 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup marks the tournament’s return to African soil after 24 years, with Zimbabwe co-hosting the event alongside South Africa and Namibia.
Sikandar Raza has described the opportunity to play in the ODI World Cup hosted by his home country as a blessing
For Sikandar Raza, a key player across all formats of Zimbabwean cricket, competing in a major global tournament before a home crowd represents a magnificent finale. “It is every cricketer’s dream to retire after playing in a World Cup,” Sikandar Raza said. “Getting the chance to play a World Cup on home soil during the final phase of my career is truly a blessing for me.”
Beyond his personal achievements, he emphasized that the event offers a wonderful opportunity to showcase Zimbabwe’s beauty, vibrant culture, and passionate crowds to the world.
Matches will be played at Harare Sports Club, Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo, and the Mosi-oa-Tunya International Cricket Stadium—currently under construction—in Victoria Falls. Sikandar Raza highlighted the stunning Victoria Falls venue, which will host exciting matches, including Zimbabwe’s Group A clash against India on October 24. Zimbabwe has been placed in a group alongside formidable teams such as India, Pakistan, Australia, and Afghanistan.
Also Read: Abhishek Sharma’s T20 Records in Hyderabad
Raza said, “First of all, I think if that happens—if Zimbabwe becomes part of the next ICC cycle—I would be the first person to support it. If Zimbabwe becomes part of the WTC, we might not perform well initially, but one thing is certain: if we are part of it, our cricketing growth will accelerate. Our performance across all formats will improve. I say this because the development of my own cricket that the world has witnessed has come about through Test cricket.”
