BENEATH Sikandar Raza’s competitive edge lies a deep gratitude for the country he now calls home.
As Zimbabwe prepare to host India, the captain opened up about the emotional significance of recently reaching his 314th international appearance, revealing he never imagined such a journey when he first received his debut cap in March 2013.
“When I got my debut cap, I never thought in my wildest dreams that I would still be here.”
The milestone has given Raza little opportunity for reflection with Zimbabwe moving straight into another international assignment, but his appreciation for the country remains unmistakable.
“The only time I had was to be grateful. Firstly to God, then to Zimbabwe for the opportunity, my family for the support and the fans for accepting me.”
For Raza, representing Zimbabwe carries a significance that extends well beyond cricket.
“This country gave me a home, gave me a name and gave me an identity,” he said.
He says every international appearance still carries the same sense of honour as his first.
“I don’t take any cap lightly because every time I wear this badge it reminds me what Zimbabwe has done for me,” Raza said.
One of the aspects he treasures most is the acceptance he has received from Zimbabwean supporters.
“The new generation coming through doesn’t even know that I wasn’t born here. They simply see me as one of their own.”
Those emotions continue to influence every career decision he makes.
Despite lucrative opportunities in franchise cricket around the world, Raza insists national duty will always come first whenever Zimbabwe need him.
“Every time there is an opportunity to represent Zimbabwe, especially in white ball cricket, I don’t think twice. I come home.”
However, the veteran all rounder also made it clear that sentiment alone will never keep him in the team.
“I’ll play as long as I’m needed, as long as I’m performing and leading from the front,” Raza added.
“I don’t want to wear this cap even for one game if I feel I’m no longer good enough to deserve it.”
