‘That’s something that will always be painful’ – Sikandar Raza on Zimbabwe missing T20 World Cup 2024

Sikandar Raza Interview. (Photo Source: Twitter)

Zimbabwe’s cricket team face a poignant moment as they gear up for their white-ball series in Bangladesh, with the looming absence from next month’s Twenty20 World Cup casting a shadow over their spirits.

Expressing his sentiments on the matter, team captain Sikandar Raza articulated and said that it’s something that will always be painful. Not just when they play but even when retire. Notably, Zimbabwe’s failed to secure a spot in the upcoming tournament, as they were edged out by Namibia and Uganda during the African qualifiers, which remains a bitter pill to swallow. The captain’s words resonated with the palpable sense of regret within the team, underscoring the enduring impact of this setback. However, despite the setback, Raza stressed that their journey in Bangladesh is not devoid of purpose or motivation.

“I think that’s something that will always be painful. Not just when we play, I think even when we retire. It’s not just pain that we’re feeling now, I think it’s something that we’re going to have to carry for a long time,” Raza was quoted as saying by The Daily Star.

“We have a huge responsibility back home as well for the people and the kids that are playing this sport and the kids who want to make a career out of this sport. The future of the sport in (my) country is enough motivation for me to try and take away the pain,” he remarked.

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There will be a very competitive series because they’re a good team: Shanto

Despite this setback, the prospect of nurturing the future of cricket in Zimbabwe serves as a powerful driving force amid the prevailing disappointment. As Zimbabwe prepare to face Bangladesh in a series preceding the World Cup, the host team anticipates a tough battle ahead. Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto acknowledged the competitive edge Zimbabwe bring against the hosts.

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“All I can say is that the series will not be easy. There will be a very competitive series because they’re a good team, too,” captain Shanto said.

With emotions running high and aspirations driving them forward, Zimbabwe’s cricketing journey continues, marked by resilience and a fervent determination to overcome setbacks on the road to success.