Sikandar Raza, the all-rounder from Zimbabwe, believes that the Indian Premier League (IPL) is the most extraordinary T20 franchise league in the world.
Sikandar Raza is currently showcasing his skills in the International League T20 (ILT20), a franchise-based T20I league taking place in the UAE. Following this, he is set to join the Pakistan Super League 2024 (PSL 2024). Raza, who delivered an outstanding performance for Zimbabwe, secured an IPL contract in the 2023 season. In the IPL 2023 auction, Punjab Kings acquired the right-handed batsman for Rs. 50 lakh. The team, led by Shikhar Dhawan, showed confidence in Raza’s abilities by retaining him ahead of the IPL 2024 auction. After the PSL, he will continue his stint in the Indian Premier League 2024 (IPL 2024).
In a conversation with SportsNow, Sikandar Raza expressed his admiration for the IPL, emphasizing that it holds a unique place in his heart. According to Raza, this overwhelming fan backing sets the IPL apart from any other cricket league, making it an extraordinary and unforgettable experience.
“There is no better preparation than playing cricket. So, ILT20, of course, is a high-standard league. I am going to play PSL from here. I am looking forward to that PSL. So, you know, my preparation leading to the IPL will be playing ILT20 and the PSL. I mean, you cannot substitute game time. I think that is the best preparation one can have before the IPL,” Raza told Sportsnow.
“I just think that the availability of all the players for one tournament makes IPL really special. In most of the matches we play, the crowd comes and support their teams. That’s something that is different in the IPL. The only league when it comes to the crowd that comes close to the IPL is the PSL. So, I think IPL definitely stands out with a couple of factors, yes,” he added.
Sikandar Raza expressed his preference not to join another IPL franchise, emphasizing his gratitude towards Punjab Kings (PBKS) for providing him with the opportunity to participate in the Indian Premier League.
“No, IPL is such a big and global event that I am very grateful and blessed that Punjab [Kings] picked me. And I don’t think I can ever replay their faith. I mean, they were the only team that raised the baton on the auction day”.
“So, if they hadn’t done that, I don’t think I would have been part of IPL last year, let alone this year. So, no man. Being part of the IPL is a wonderful experience. And I am very grateful and humbled by the fact that Punjab has picked me”, Raza further said.
During the last IPL season, Sikandar Raza featured in 7 matches for Punjab Kings. In those games, he managed to accumulate 139 runs, showcasing an impressive average of 27.80. Notably, he clinched a half-century in one of the matches. His batting prowess was further highlighted by a powerful strike rate exceeding 141.
Switching to his bowling performance, the off-spinner proved his mettle by taking 3 wickets in 6 innings, maintaining an economy rate of 9.92. Overall, Raza made valuable contributions with both bat and ball for Punjab Kings in the last season.
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