ICC World Cup 2023: "It Can Only Happen If We Qualify" - Sikandar Raza Speaks On Zimbabwe's Chances In The Upcoming World Cup

Last Update on: May 17th, 2023 at 06:49 pm

Zimbabwean cricketer Sikandar Raza has expressed his hope for his team to qualify for the upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 in India.

In an interview with ESPNcricinfo, Raza spoke about the hospitality and quality of cricket in India, and how he hopes his countrymen can experience it too. However, he acknowledged that it can only happen if Zimbabwe manages to qualify for the tournament.

Sikandar Raza has had a busy 12 months, having recently participated in the Indian Premier League (IPL) with the Punjab Kings. He shared his experience of playing in India, including the excitement of chasing totals and speaking Punjabi, a language he learned during his time in the IPL.

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Despite the challenges Zimbabwe has faced in the past, Sikandar Raza remains optimistic about his team’s chances in the World Cup qualifiers, which will be played in Zimbabwe in two months’ time. He believes that his team’s quality of cricket, along with the support of the crowd, brands, and sponsorship, can help them book their tickets to India.

Please Pray That Zimbabwe Qualify: Sikandar Raza

The 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup is set to be one of the biggest sporting events in India, and Raza hopes that his country can be a part of it. He expressed his gratitude towards India for the hospitality he received during his time there and believes that his team deserves the same treatment.

Sikandar Raza’s experience in the IPL has been a valuable one, both on and off the field. He has learned a new language and played alongside some of the best cricketers in the world. His success in the IPL has also given him confidence ahead of the World Cup qualifiers, where he hopes to make a significant impact.

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“I have been saying that to everyone. I said, “Guys, I am leaving with one request: please pray that Zimbabwe qualify”. I genuinely do believe that the way they looked after me, my team-mates deserve the hospitality too. Quality of cricket, the stadiums, the crowd, the brands, the sponsorship.”

“It is just unreal. I really, sincerely hope my fellow countrymen can be exposed to this. It can only happen if we qualify. Insha Allah, in two months’ time [at the qualifiers, which will be played in Zimbabwe], we will book our tickets for India.”

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Sikandar Raza’s hope for his team to qualify for the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup in India is a testament to his belief in Zimbabwean cricket. His experience in India, both in the IPL and in his travels, has given him a new perspective on the game and a greater appreciation for the opportunities that come with it. As he continues to work towards his goals, Raza remains committed to improving himself as a player and as a person.