Sikandar Raza Urges Chevrons to Stay Grounded Ahead of Tough T20 World Cup Group

Zimbabwe cricket captain Sikandar Raza during a practice session

Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza has urged the Chevrons to remain focused and disciplined as they prepare for a challenging ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 group that features several established cricketing nations. Zimbabwe has been drawn alongside Australia, Sri Lanka, Ireland, and Oman in a group widely regarded as one of the tournament’s toughest. While acknowledging the quality of the opposition, Raza stressed that success will depend on staying grounded and taking the competition one match at a time.

The Chevrons’ build-up to the global showpiece has been boosted by a week-long training camp in Hambantota, Sri Lanka, where the squad acclimatised to conditions similar to those expected during the tournament. Raza praised Sri Lanka Cricket for hosting the team and providing access to high-quality facilities that allowed Zimbabwe to prepare thoroughly.

“When it comes to preparation, we were in Hambantota for a week, so we had a really good camp,” Raza said.“I want to thank Sri Lanka Cricket for hosting us and giving us the facilities to prepare well in these conditions.”

One Match at a Time

Despite the presence of traditional powerhouses in the group, Raza made it clear that Zimbabwe’s immediate focus is firmly on their opening match against Oman. The skipper said looking too far ahead could be distracting, emphasising that early momentum will be key in a tightly contested group.

“Regarding the plans, the first challenge is Oman. All my energy in my head is at that game,” he said.“I do not want to think about too many games. We have got one game to win, which is Oman, and all my focus is on that game.”

Sikandar Raza added that only after clearing the opening hurdle would the team turn its attention to the rest of the group.

“Inshallah, we cross that line, and then we worry about the other teams,” he said.

Measured Confidence, Not Fear

Zimbabwe heads into the tournament with growing belief following improved performances in recent ICC events, but Raza cautioned against overconfidence. Instead, he called for discipline, adaptability, and mental clarity against higher-ranked opposition.

Cricket analysts say Zimbabwe’s chances will hinge on strong starts with both bat and ball, as well as exploiting moments of pressure against teams accustomed to dominance. For the Chevrons, the 2026 World Cup represents not just a test of skill but a measure of how far the team has progressed in competing consistently on the global stage.

Sikandar Raza; Chevrons; ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Zimbabwe