ZIMBABWE’S T20 World Cup 2026 campaign has reached historic heights, with the Chevrons securing a place in the Super 8 stage following a rained-out draw against Ireland yesterday.
Team captain Sikandar Raza hailed the milestone as a signal that Zimbabwe cricket is back on the global map.
“Whatever has happened in the past has happened but this group of boys and the way we have gone about our business with utmost honesty and integrity towards the game itself and to each other in the changing room, those were one of the things we set out for and to see now you guys (foreign media) and everybody else taking notice of Zimbabwe and putting Zimbabwe in a very respectful manner and taking notice of our country is certainly very humbling and pleasing,” Raza said.
"It's certainly one of the boxes ticked as well, and hopefully, we can keep writing our own history and the next time when people talk about Zimbabwe when it comes to cricket, they show a bit more respect and that will be nice and that was one of the and the goals we set out."
Zimbabwe began the tournament on a high, defeating Oman and Australia in their opening matches.
The rained-out clash with Ireland added one more point, leaving Zimbabwe with five points from three games, comfortably second in Group B behind hosts Sri Lanka, who have six.
Standout performances have driven Zimbabwe’s success. Brian Bennett impressed with an unbeaten 64 against Australia, while Tadiwanashe Marumani and Blessing Muzarabani, with seven wickets in two matches, have been key contributors. Fielding has also shone, highlighted by Tony Munyonga’s spectacular catch against Australia and Bennett’s brilliant grab versus Oman.
Tomorrow, Zimbabwe face Sri Lanka in a match that will determine the final group standings. Regardless of the outcome, Zimbabwe have already carved its name into cricket history.
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Raza reflected on the journey.
"Back in the sub-regional qualifiers, I told my troops that we’re in this situation because of ourselves, and only we can clear the mess. This achievement is just a tick in the box, not the whole box. There will be a small celebration, but the focus is already on the next game,” he said.
Raza paid tribute to fans who travelled to Sri Lanka, particularly the dedicated Castle Corner, whose support energised the team.
"Whichever corner they are sitting at, they will be the loudest. They keep pushing us forward. But when we hear them, it gives us energy. fans have done all of this out of their own pockets. Hopefully, this is just the start of many more fans coming in,” he said.
“We will do everything to raise the Zimbabwe flag high. Hopefully, more fans will join, and this will be the start of a culture where supporters follow the team wherever it plays.”
