Zimbabwe’s Sikandar Raza Crowned World’s Best ICC ODI All-Rounder
SIKANDAR Raza has written a new chapter in Zimbabwe’s cricket history by becoming the number one all-rounder in the ICC Men’s ODI Rankings.
The 38-year-old climbed to the top after a string of strong performances against Sri Lanka in Harare, moving ahead of Afghanistan’s Mohammad Nabi (292 points) and Azmatullah Omarzai (296) to take first place with 302 points.
Raza’s batting was the highlight of the two-match series, where he struck two half-centuries. He also delivered with the ball, taking one wicket for 48 runs from 10 overs in the first ODI. His all-round efforts, although Zimbabwe lost the series, have been rewarded with global recognition. On top of his rise in the all-rounder rankings, Raza also jumped nine places in the batting charts, moving up to number 22.
Zimbabwe Cricket Managing Director Givemore Makoni said Raza’s achievement marked an important moment for the team and the nation.
“We are immensely proud of Sikandar Raza for rising to the very top of the ICC ODI All-Rounder Rankings,” Makoni said. “His consistency, resilience and match-winning qualities continue to inspire not only his teammates but the whole of Zimbabwe.”
Raza’s rise was not the only bright spot for Zimbabwe. Veteran all-rounder Sean Williams also made progress, climbing seven places to number 16 in the ODI All-Rounder Rankings and moving to number 47 in the Batting Rankings.
“Sean Williams has also shown once again why he is such a vital part of our team, with his consistent contributions both with bat and ball,” Makoni said. “We extend our appreciation to him and indeed the entire squad for their fighting spirit and encouraging displays against Sri Lanka.”
In bowling, Richard Ngarava remains Zimbabwe’s highest-ranked player, moving up two places to number 20 on the ODI Bowling Rankings. Raza follows at number 38, showing his all-round value to the side.
As a team, Zimbabwe currently sit at number 11 on the ICC ODI Rankings. Makoni believes the latest update points to steady growth despite recent setbacks.
“These rankings movements show that our players are competing hard at the highest level,” he said. “While results did not go our way against Sri Lanka, the individual performances point to a promising future as we continue building towards greater success.”
