 "Sikandar Raza delivered a heartfelt speech ahead of Zimbabwe's do-or-die clash against India. Image: PCB/Reuters")
Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza has made an inspiring statement for his team ahead of their must-win T20 World Cup 2026 Super 8 clash against India. Both sides are hoping to win this crucial Group 1 game in Chennai to keep their hopes alive for the semifinals.
Speaking to reporters before the big match, Raza asked a simple question to reporters, “How many of you have picked Zimbabwe to be in the semifinals?” Only one journalist raised a hand, prompting Raza to speak on the lack of faith in his side and how he wants to change it.
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Raza delivers a hard-hitting speech
“Clearly one, so maybe we haven’t done enough yet. These are things that motivate us, these are the challenges we look forward to. I don’t know if we will make it or not, Inshallah, we will. But one thing I can assure you as Zimbabwe captain and from the team’s point of view, we will give it our best shot,” Raza said.
“So, the respect you speak about sir, only one guy put his hand up that Zimbabwe will get into the semifinals. So, clearly we have done enough, but not enough for all of you to raise your hands. Hopefully, I would like to see that one day,” he added.
Raza’s words have drawn comparisons to former India captain Kapil Dev, who faced a similar scenario in the 1983 Cricket World Cup. At that time, India were not considered a strong team, and few expected them to reach the knockout stage. India went on to win the title, sparking a cricket revolution in the country.
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Zimbabwe face a tough task against hosts India on February 26 at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. Both teams lost their opening Super 8 games - Zimbabwe to West Indies and India to South Africa - making this match crucial. Only two teams from each group will qualify for the semifinals, and currently West Indies and South Africa occupy the top two spots in Group 1.
Zimbabwe had earlier qualified for Super 8s from Group D of the preliminary stage, finishing on top ahead of co-hosts Sri Lanka.