T20 World Cup: Zimbabwe’s battle returns from the wilderness to exciting on the biggest stage once again

Perhaps the most important figure on the field was T20 captain Sikandar Raza.

After moving from Pakistan to join his family in Zimbabwe in 2002, Raza put aside the disappointment in his eye that had destroyed his hopes of becoming a fighter pilot and pursued a career as a cricketer.

Three player-of-the-match performances in the 2022 T20 World Cup, smashing 133 off 43 deliveries as his side made a T20 international record 344-4 against Gambia in 2024 and hitting 54 balls – Zimbabwe’s fastest one-day international century – against Netherlands in 2023 are just a few examples of his exploits.

“This is probably the first time in a long time that fans have traveled in support,” Reda said.

“It’s because of the way we have been playing cricket over the past year. We have given them hope that this team is achieving something and we can achieve something if we are all together.

“And this is not just about the cricketers, or the dressing room, or the coaching staff. They are our fans. They are our media. They are the citizens of our country.”

Now approaching his 40th birthday, Reda continues to lead from the front.

When sub-par performances meant a qualifying tournament in Kenya was required to reach the T20 World Cup, Reza’s message was clear.

He said: “I sat with the team and said: Either we feel sorry for ourselves and feel ashamed, or we should actually understand reality.” “It is because of us that we are in this mess and we are the only ones who can get out of it.”

He knows how proud those at home are.

“Let’s be together and really enjoy this because it’s a big achievement for the country,” he added.

For those who have seen dark days, like Taipo, a moment like reaching the Super 8 stage should be cherished.

“In World Cup finals, Zimbabwe will always be the underdog. I am very proud,” he said.

“It’s great to see the team performing well on the world stage. It generates positivity and gives a lot of people happiness,” Mbangwa added.

The future is bright, with a host of talented players, strong leadership and the prospect of an ICC event on home soil.

Zimbabwe, South Africa and Namibia will host the Men’s Under-50 World Cup in 2027, with matches to be played at a new 10,000-seat stadium near Victoria Falls.

As for seeing success in the coming years, Mbangwa wants the country to cherish the present.

“The important thing is to enjoy the present and continue doing what they are doing,” he said.

After getting through Group B unbeaten – a win over Oman and a loss to Ireland alongside those impressive victories against Australia and Sri Lanka – Zimbabwe suffered a crushing 107-run defeat to the West Indies in their opening Group A Super 8 match.

They will next face defending champions and co-hosts India – who are reeling from defeat by South Africa and need a win – in Chennai on Thursday.

But even though Chevron are not favorites to advance to the semi-finals, nothing can be ruled out.

As Taibo says: “Possibilities are always there when it comes to Zimbabwe.”