Sikandar Raza Insists Zimbabwe’s Win Over Bangladesh Was No Easy Victory
Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza has rejected any suggestion that his team’s 99-run victory over Bangladesh in the ODI tri-series opener in Abu Dhabi came easily. After bowling Bangladesh out for 172 while defending 271 for 8, Raza described the result as hard-fought and warned against underestimating quality opposition in international cricket.
Zimbabwe’s innings got off to a rocky start when the side slipped to 24 for 3 inside the opening ten overs. Brendan Taylor and Craig Ervine then steadied the ship with a 150-run stand, scoring 81 and 93 respectively to guide Zimbabwe to 271 for 8. Raza praised both batters for holding the innings together and laying the platform for a competitive total.
“There is no easy game, there is no easy win. There was a time when Bangladesh probably beat us out of eight games maybe six times, and I’m sure they would say the same thing that it wasn’t easy. So the fact that we have won three out of the last four ODIs does not mean it’s easy. Brother, it’s international cricket, no win comes easy.”
Top-Order Collapse Sets Up Batting Rescue Mission
Raza acknowledged that losing three wickets so early made the task difficult, but he credited Taylor and Ervine for absorbing pressure and rebuilding the innings. The experienced partnership shifted momentum back toward Zimbabwe, allowing the lower order to contribute useful runs and set a target that ultimately proved defendable.
Masakadza and Nyamhuri Stem Bangladesh Chase
Bangladesh made a strong start to the chase, with Tanzid Hasan taking the attack to Zimbabwe’s bowlers. The visitors were arguably ahead of the game at 96 for 2 after 15 overs, but Wellington Masakadza and Newman Nyamhuri turned the tide. Raza specifically credited the pair for pulling things back and finishing the job as Bangladesh were bowled out for 172.
Abu Dhabi Pitch Rewards Patience and Adaptability
Discussing the venue, Raza pointed out that the Abu Dhabi wicket offered something for every skillset. He noted that seamers would find early movement, batters would get scoring opportunities, spinners would come into play during a slow-turn phase, and the surface would flatten out again later. According to Raza, the key was grinding through difficult periods and staying patient long enough for easier scoring conditions to return.
Unity and Culture Drive Zimbabwe’s Resurgence
Beyond tactics and conditions, Raza pointed to Zimbabwe’s team environment as the foundation of their recent success. With three wins in their last four ODIs, the captain said the side’s strength lies in unity, culture, and belief in every player’s ability, regardless of batting position or bowling role.
The victory gives Zimbabwe an early advantage in the tri-series, but Raza’s message was unambiguous: respect the opposition, expect a fight, and earn every result. For a side rebuilding its identity, the win in Abu Dhabi was as much about character as it was about runs and wickets.
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