Sikandar Raza Admits Batting Struggles After Zimbabwe Lose T20I Series Against India

Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza has openly acknowledged that his recent batting performances have not been good enough after India sealed the T20I series with a commanding 90-run victory in the second match at Harare.

Chasing a daunting target of 220, Zimbabwe were bowled out for just 129, handing India an unassailable 2-0 lead with one game remaining in the series.

Raza Takes Responsibility for Zimbabwe’s Batting Failures

Speaking after the defeat, Raza admitted that he has not contributed enough with the bat and believes his lack of runs has hurt the team’s chances.

“I think I, as a captain leading the team, have been letting the team down with my bat,” Raza said after the match.

The experienced all-rounder emphasized that while Zimbabwe’s young players are still learning, he must set a better example as captain.

“The onus is on me to try and get it right because my team needs my runs and bowling, and unfortunately it hasn’t been the case in the past two T20 games.”

Poor Run Continues for Zimbabwe Captain

Raza’s recent T20 form has been a major concern for Zimbabwe. Against India, he managed scores of just 4 and 0 in the first two matches of the series.

Before the India series, he was dismissed for only 3 runs against Bangladesh, meaning he has now recorded three consecutive single-digit scores in T20 internationals.

The captain’s struggles have mirrored Zimbabwe’s batting woes. In their last three T20Is, the hosts have posted modest totals and failed to build substantial partnerships against quality bowling attacks.

India Outclass Zimbabwe in Harare

India delivered a complete performance in the second T20I. After early setbacks, Ishan Kishan blasted 81 off 44 balls while Tilak Varma remained unbeaten on 60 from just 29 deliveries to power India to 219/5.

Zimbabwe’s chase never gained momentum despite a positive start from the openers. Regular wickets derailed the innings, and the hosts eventually collapsed for 129.

India’s bowlers shared the wickets, with Abhishek Sharma, Prince Yadav, and Yash Thakur making crucial contributions.

Zimbabwe Aim to Avoid Whitewash

The third and final T20I will be played in Harare on Sunday, where Zimbabwe will look to salvage some pride and avoid a 3-0 series sweep.

Raza remains hopeful of turning things around and contributing more significantly with both bat and ball.

“I’ll try my best to turn it around because the team could do really well with my runs,” Raza added.

With the series already decided, Zimbabwe’s focus will now be on producing a stronger all-round performance in the final match, while India will aim to complete a clean sweep and continue their impressive run in T20 cricket.