ZIMBABWE T20I captain Sikandar Raza’s value on the global T20 circuit continues to soar after the Dambulla Sixers secured his services for the remainder of the Lanka Premier League, banking on his experience to revive their fading playoff ambitions.
The franchise announced Raza as the replacement for injured South African batter Marques Ackerman, handing the Zimbabwe all rounder another opportunity to showcase why he remains one of the most sought after players in franchise cricket.
The move comes just days after Raza completed Zimbabwe’s T20I series against India, where he once again underlined his commitment to national duty before immediately returning to the franchise circuit.
Dambulla are hoping Raza’s arrival can inject fresh energy into a campaign that has so far struggled for consistency. The Sixers currently occupy fourth place on the table with four points from six matches after winning two and losing four.
Raza arrives with outstanding T20 credentials built across leagues around the world. The experienced all rounder has amassed 7,572 runs at a strike rate of almost 137 while also taking 255 wickets with his off spin in 374 T20 matches, including 139 T20 Internationals.
His proven ability to influence matches with both bat and ball is expected to strengthen Dambulla’s chances as they chase a place in the knockout stages.
The Sixers will, however, soon lose another key overseas player. Afghanistan left arm fast bowler Fazalhaq Farooqi has been recalled for national duty but will remain available for Dambulla’s next fixture against Colombo KAPS before departing the tournament.
Elsewhere, Colombo KAPS have reshaped their squad with two changes ahead of the business end of the competition.
Ashen Bandara has been drafted in to replace injured Sri Lanka batter Kusal Mendis, while Bangladesh seamer Hasan Mahmud has returned home for international commitments. Fellow Bangladeshi Ripon Mondol has been named as his replacement.
Kandy Royals have also been forced into a squad adjustment after Kavija Gamage replaced the injured Vishen Halambage for the remainder of the tournament.
Earlier, Jaffna Kings confirmed Bangladesh fast bowler Taskin Ahmed would not join the squad after receiving a national team call up. Bangladesh batter Tawhid Hridoy has already linked up with the defending champions as Taskin’s replacement.
With several international call ups reshaping squads across the competition, Raza’s arrival could prove one of the tournament’s most significant mid season acquisitions as Dambulla attempt to turn their campaign around and secure a place in the Lanka Premier League playoffs.
