ZIMBABWE’S cricketing hero and T20 captain, Sikandar Raza, has been officially recognised as the world’s premier short-format all-rounder, claiming the No. 1 position on the latest ICC Men’s T20I Player Rankings for all-rounders.
This career-defining achievement is a testament to the veteran’s exceptional and consistent form with both bat and ball over the past two years.
The 39-year-old’s rise to the summit comes on the back of impressive displays in the ongoing T20I Tri-Series in Pakistan, which also includes Sri Lanka.
While the team has struggled to secure victories, Raza has been the undeniable lynchpin of the side.
In the four innings played so far, Raza has notched up 141 runs, including a high score of 47, consistently providing stability and firepower in the middle order.
Crucially, his contributions haven’t been limited to batting; he has also secured three vital wickets against quality opposition, proving his value as a true all-rounder.
Keep Reading
- Teenage stars impress Lady Chevrons coach Brent
- Teenage stars impress Lady Chevrons coach Brent
- Chevrons fired up for T20 WC
- Raza in form after bone marrow surgery
This effort was significant enough to dislodge Pakistan’s Saim Ayub from the top spot, pushing him down to second.
Raza’s ascent to the premier position marks a historic first in his 13-year international career.
The journey has been one of perseverance, with the star all-rounder maintaining a position within the top 10 since his impactful run during the
2022 edition of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.
His ranking success in T20Is mirrors his earlier triumph in the longer white-ball format, having been crowned the No 1 ODI all-rounder in September, a category where he currently sits at No 2.
This latest ranking achievement firmly cements Pakistan-born Raza’s status as a global star and a source of immense pride for Zimbabwean cricket.
His consistency at an age where many contemplate retirement is a remarkable achievement in the demanding world of international cricket.
Raza’s rise triggered several other notable movements across the ICC charts.
In the same category, Pakistan teammate Mohammad Nawaz gained a place to move to seventh.
Meanwhile, there were changes in the ODI Batters’ rankings, where India veteran Rohit Sharma re-claimed the top spot from New Zealander Daryl Mitchell.
Additionally, a host of players made ground on the latest Test rankings following Australia’s win over England and Bangladesh’s victory against Ireland.
Australia’s Travis Head jumped four spots to sixth among Test batters, while quick bowler Mitchell Starc moved up to fifth among Test bowlers.