Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza has been a much-needed addition to the Paarl Royals in the ongoing SA20 2025-26. After a horror 49 all out outing against Sunrisers Eastern Cape in their campaign opener, Raza helped them move the second spot on the points table. On January 4, he claimed an economical four-fer as MI Cape Town were bundled out for 88 at their homeground in Newlands. However, it has been an emotional ride for Raza who lost his 13-year-old brother Muhammad Mahdi on December 26, 2025. He learned about the tragedy when he was set to join Paarl Royals after playing his last IlT20 2025-26 match for Sharjah Warriorz.
Raza had the option to stay longer with his family to process the loss. His choice to mourn would've been supported by the Royals franchise but the 39-year-old joined the team becoming first Zimbabwean cricketer to play in the league.
“That part of my life will always be difficult. But I did say to my teammates that if I wasn’t mentally, physically and emotionally ready, I wouldn’t be here. The fact that I can add value, I have decided to join you — I will take nothing away from you," Raza said while addressing select Indian media on January 4 as quoted by News18.
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“I will give as much as I can to the team — the energy, the experience. Whatever you ask me to do, I’ll do it. So yes, it’s nice to be here," he added.
Raza wants more Zimbabwe players in T20 leagues
Raza does not look at it as an opportunity to make his name but open doors for other Zimbabwean cricketers to play in T20 leagues.
“That is the whole idea, and that is the point as well. If you look at the last few years, whenever a Zimbabwean has gone to a league and done well, it has certainly opened doors for more Zimbabweans," Raza said.
“I really feel blessed by the fact that I am the first Zimbabwean to play the SA20, and hopefully my performances can open doors for other Zimbabweans as well," he added.
Raza has sights on the T20 World Cup 2026 in India and Sri Lanka. They are placed in Group B alongside Oman, Australia, Ireland and Sri Lanka. Zimbabwe have never reached the knockout stage of the tournament.
MI Cape Town register their lowest total
Raza's four dismissals on January 4 were Rassie van der Dussen, Jason Smith, George Linde and skipper Rashid Khan. He conceded just 13 runs from his quota of four overs. Ottneil Baartman and Nqobani Mokoena took two wickets each as MI Cape Town were bowled out for 88 in 18.4 overs. This is MI Cape Town's lowest ever total. David Miller-led Royals won by seven wickets with seven overs to spare.