Sikandar Raza Backs Zimbabwe, Says India and Hosts Have Equal Chance in T20I Series

Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza believes the upcoming three-match T20I series against India will be an evenly matched contest, rejecting suggestions that the visitors are clear favourites. The series begins on July 23 in Harare, with both teams entering the contest amid periods of transition and looking to build momentum.

Speaking ahead of the series, Raza said both sides have an equal opportunity to claim victory and predicted an exciting battle for cricket fans.

“Both countries will have an equal chance in this series. Zimbabwe has been playing very consistent and very entertaining cricket, and this series will be very entertaining,” Raza said.

India arrive in Zimbabwe after a disappointing white-ball tour of Europe. Under new T20I captain Shreyas Iyer, the team suffered a 0-2 T20I series defeat to Ireland in Belfast and was then beaten 0-4 by England in a five-match T20I series. India also lost the ODI series 1-2 under captain Shubman Gill.

Despite India's recent struggles, Raza acknowledged the depth of Indian cricket while noting that the team is currently undergoing a transition phase. He believes that factor, combined with Zimbabwe's own evolving squad, will make the series highly competitive.

The veteran all-rounder, who has represented Zimbabwe in 136 T20 Internationals, pointed to his team's recent achievements as evidence that they can challenge any opposition. Zimbabwe stunned Australia with a 23-run victory at the ICC T20 World Cup in Colombo in February, a result that played a major role in Australia's shock exit from the tournament. The African side has also recorded notable wins against Sri Lanka and Bangladesh this year.

Raza emphasized that Zimbabwe's recent performances have boosted the team's confidence and reinforced the belief that they can compete against top cricketing nations.

The remaining matches of the series will also be played in Harare, with the second and third T20Is scheduled for July 25 and July 26 respectively. With both teams seeking a fresh start, the series promises to be a closely contested and entertaining affair.