Raja Makes History as Zimbabwe’s Top All-Rounder

Zimbabwean cricket has witnessed a historic achievement as experienced all-rounder Sikandar Raja reached the top spot in the ICC ODI all-rounder rankings for the first time. At 39 years old, Raja has created a new chapter in Zimbabwe’s cricket history, becoming the first player from the country to lead the all-rounder rankings.

Raja delivered stellar performances in last week’s two ODIs against Sri Lanka, scoring two half-centuries and taking a wicket in the first match, conceding only 48 runs in 10 overs. Although Zimbabwe lost both matches, Raja’s individual performances were highly impressive.

In the updated ICC rankings released on Wednesday, September 3, Raja climbed two positions to reach the top of the all-rounder list with 302 rating points. Afghanistan’s Azmatullah Omarzai is second with 296 points, followed by Mohammad Nabi in third with 292 points. Bangladesh’s Mehidy Hasan Miraz is fourth with 249 rating points.

Raja has also improved in both batting and bowling. He jumped nine spots in the batting rankings to 22nd, while his bowling ranking improved by one place to 38th.