The third Twenty20 International in Harare ended in a 23-run loss to India, disappointing Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza. The visitors scored 182 runs in the first inning thanks to several lifelines extended to the Men in Blue. Raza is upset with the Chevrons because they have played poorly on the field the entire series, especially on a night when the outcome could have been different.
Raza examined that and saw that they ultimately lost by 23 runs while giving up 20 more runs. The top-order hitters’ performance did not sit well with the seasoned all-rounder either. They needed a strong start as they were chasing 183 runs, but at one point Zimbabwe were 19/3. Nevertheless, Raza gave his word that he will support Wessly Madhevere and Tadiwanashe Marumani to score runs since he has complete faith in them.
“I believe it’s the fielding once more. We are happy with our fielding, but tonight we lost by 23 runs and handed up 20 additional runs. Even if the top is currently having issues, I have complete faith that they will eventually get things right. In the past year and a half, we have tried about fifteen different partners (openers),” Raza stated during the post-match press conference.
It’s time for me and the other players to assume accountability: Sikandar Raza
Sikandar Raza, the captain of Zimbabwe, wasn’t satisfied with the senior players’ or his own team’s performance. The hosts were under increased strain after the 38-year-old failed to deliver with the bat. He anticipates that other seniors will grow from their errors and make the necessary corrections in the future. The all-rounder clarified the issue with the opener and said they should have a longer run.
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It’s time for me and the rest of our guys to assume accountability. It’s okay for new players to make mistakes, but the more experienced players must take charge. There’s no way to solve one issue by causing another; that’s why we selected these three openers. It’s appropriate to give the newly acquired openers a chance, Raza said.