‘We keep our sights forward’: Giant-killer Zimbabwe send warning after taking down Sri Lanka and Australia
Captain Sikandar Raza says Zimbabwe’s strong group stage performance at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 has earned them respect, and he hopes the team can continue their run in the Super Eight against stronger opponents.
Zimbabwe demonstrated their ability to challenge top teams by beating Australia and Sri Lanka in Group B matches.
“We keep our eyes forward. If I keep my eyes focused on the present…I think no one gave us a chance. To win everyone’s hearts and respect, it’s a good position,” Raza said during the post-match presentation after his team’s win against SL.
Zimbabwe now enter the Super Eights, where they will face defending champions India, two-time champions West Indies Cricket Team and 2024 runners-up South Africa.
But Raza said his camp was not intimidated.
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“We take one game at a time. We arrive on the 21st, then we practice on the 22nd, and then it’s show time. Whatever happens, happens. If we can win two games out of three, who knows what can happen. Everyone loves an underdog story,” Raza added.
Reflecting on the win against Sri Lanka, Raza said the hosts failed to achieve a defendable total.
“When we lost the toss, all I said to the boys was if we are playing really good cricket, why does the toss matter? I bowled and I said finger spinners don’t find much turn, so we can put them under pressure.
“I came into the dressing room and said they were 10 points short (at the break). We have trained for every situation. We have the right personnel to send at the right time. We have clearly defined all these roles and that’s why you see the confidence in the dressing room,” he said.
For now, Raza said he wants to enjoy the team’s progress towards the Super Eights.
“We are undefeated so far, but it’s only the next game that comes to mind. It’s a good position to be captain in but I will try to enjoy it at least tonight,” he said.
