Zimbabwean cricketer Sikandar Raza has been making waves in the international cricket scene. On a historic day for Zimbabwe cricket, Raza played a crucial role in leading his team to the biggest victory in T20 International cricket history. His blistering 33-ball century against Gambia in the ICC T20 Qualifier not only set the record for the fastest century by a player from a Test-playing nation but also left the cricket world stunned.
Raza’s Remarkable Knock in T20I
Sikandar Raza’s performance in the match was nothing short of extraordinary. With a powerful 133 not out off just 43 balls, Raza smashed 15 sixes and 7 fours. His lightning-fast century came in only 33 balls, beating Indian captain Rohit Sharma’s record for the fastest century by a player from a Test-playing country in T20Is. Raza’s knock helped Zimbabwe post a mammoth 344 runs, the highest-ever total in T20I cricket, surpassing Nepal’s previous record of 314.
Although Raza narrowly missed out on breaking Sahil Chauhan’s record of 18 sixes in a T20 innings, his performance has etched his name among the greats of the format. Afghanistan’s Hazratullah Zazai and New Zealand’s Finn Allen are tied for second place, each with 16 sixes, while Raza’s 15 maximums put him just behind them.
From Sialkot to Zimbabwe: Sikandar Raza’s Journey
Born in Sialkot, Pakistan, in 1986, Sikandar Raza’s path to international cricket has been unique. After moving to Zimbabwe and obtaining citizenship in 2011, he embarked on his professional cricket career. Before cricket, Raza had moved to Scotland to pursue a bachelor’s degree in software engineering, but his passion for cricket eventually took over.
Raza’s journey from his roots in Pakistan to becoming a key player for Zimbabwe has been one of determination and resilience. His success story also extends beyond international cricket, as he is a regular in franchise leagues like the Pakistan Super League (PSL) and the Indian Premier League (IPL), where he represents Punjab Kings.
Sikandar Raza’s Net Worth and Success in IPL
Sikandar Raza’s growing influence in cricket has significantly contributed to his net worth, which is estimated to be around Rs 37 crore. His IPL contract with Punjab Kings earns him a salary of Rs 50 lakh, and he also profits from numerous brand endorsements, including campaigns for Stem Sports and Shere Sports.
Raza’s consistency and contributions across various T20 leagues have made him a sought-after player, cementing his reputation as a true all-rounder in the cricket world.
A Glorious Achievement for Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe’s historic win by 290 runs, the largest victory margin in T20I history, was driven by Raza’s brilliance both as a batsman and as a leader. His exceptional century and Zimbabwe’s all-round performance in the match have elevated the team’s stature in international cricket.
