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Brandon Moyo, [email protected] 

AS the country celebrates 44 years of Independence this month, high-flying ChevronsT20I captain Sikandar Raza has credited Zimbabwe’s peaceful environment for his longevity and success.

 Since he arrived in Zimbabwe at the age of 21 in 2007, Sikandar Raza has found solace in the country’s serene embrace. For cricket enthusiasts, this soon-to-be 37-year-old Chevrons all-rounder is not only a perpetual gift but a revered ambassador for the nation. Raza’s commitment extends beyond the cricket pitch.

 Whether representing the national team or dazzling in international franchise leagues, he consistently expresses his love for Zimbabwe — a sentiment that transcends mere sport. Life in Zimbabwe has been the secret behind his unwavering consistency. Raza thrives on the country’s tranquillity. 

In an interview with Pakistan-based writer Saj Sadiq, he revealed that the country’s atmosphere has been pivotal in shaping him into the player he is today. His harmonious relationship with Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) further fuels his passion.

Beloved by Zimbabweans, Raza reciprocates their affection. His journey embodies more than just cricket – it’s a symphony of peace, love, and unwavering commitment to a nation that has become his cherished home. 

“Zimbabwe helps, we are at peace here, and there is not much stress we have in Zimbabwe. People are nice, the conditions are nice, the weather is nice, the sky is always blue and the breeze is always fresh. Mentally I’m in a very good space, I’m with my family now and Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) manages me very well, we have a very good relationship, I have no stress with the board or the organisation itself, people love me and I love them back,” said Raza. Raza’s cricketing journey intertwines with his lifestyle. But it’s not just the pitch that shapes him; it’s the kitchen too. Determined to stay at the top of his game, Raza embraced a new diet – one that demanded sacrifices.

Farewell, beloved favourites! Pizza, once a regular indulgence during his college days at Glasgow Caledonian University in Scotland, now exists only in memories. For over five years, Raza has abstained from that cheesy, triangular delight. His commitment to discipline and stamina keeps him going, defying age and expectations.

As other 36-year-olds contemplate retirement, Raza’s diet fuels his passion. It’s more than sustenance; it’s the secret ingredient behind his enduring innings. 

“But apart from that, if I’m to be blunt and honest, it takes a lot of sacrifice. When it comes to diet, I just stopped eating everything that I used to like, whether it’s good for me or bad, I just said I enjoy this too much, I’m going to leave it.

“I will give you a good example; when you are a student in the UK, your best meal is pizza because it’s a quick on-the-go sort of a meal, but I haven’t had a slice of pizza in six years, I haven’t had ice cream or dessert or anything like that in six years. I haven’t had white rice or white bread in six years or white sugar in six years.

“I just made a commitment that all the things that I used to enjoy and were part of my food regularly, I just said that’s it, I’m not having it anymore,” said Raza.

Raza’s journey has been a catalogue of accolades — awards, records shattered, and global acclaim. But for him, these triumphs hold deeper significance when they resonate with his family’s pride. Each victory etches a legacy, not just on the field, but within the hearts of those who cheer him on.

 

 

“That’s a question for my mom and dad to answer. All these achievements that I have are for my country and for my family. For me, the trophy means everything but at the same time, it means nothing. It means nothing when I look into my mom’s eyes and when I see how proud my father feels, then it feels like it means everything and without them, it feels nothing so I think it’s a question to be answered by my mom and dad more than me, I don’t know if I’m proud of my achievements but I just hope my family is,” he said.

Raza is presently in India with Punjab Kings for his second stint in the Indian Premier League (IPL). He made his first start of the season on Thursday against Gujarat Titans.