Sikandar Raza is Zimbabwe’s standout all-rounder and T20I captain, known for his right-handed batting, off-spin bowling, and record-breaking performances. He made history as the first Zimbabwean to score a T20I century and continues to lead the team with consistent contributions.
Sikandar Raza stands out as a prominent international cricketer representing Zimbabwe. Originally born in Pakistan, he later relocated to Zimbabwe, where he initiated his professional cricket journey. Renowned as a versatile all-rounder, he bats right-handed and bowls off-spin, earning widespread recognition for his steady contributions to the team. At present, he holds the position of captain for Zimbabwe’s T20 International side, guiding the team toward noticeable progress under his leadership. Raza achieved a milestone by becoming the first Zimbabwean player to register a century in T20I cricket, cementing his legacy in the format. As of 2025, Sikandar Raza is 39 years old and attended the Pakistan Air Force Public School in Lower Topa with aspirations to become a fighter pilot. He was unable to pursue this path after failing a vision test. In 2002, he relocated with his family to Zimbabwe. He hails from a Punjabi-speaking Kashmiri Muslim family and adheres to Islam. Born in Pakistan, his family later moved to Zimbabwe, where he embraced the sport wholeheartedly while maintaining strong ties to his faith. His family played a pivotal role in his professional growth. Sikandar Raza was born on 24 April 1986 in Sialkot, Punjab, Pakistan. He pursued software engineering studies at Glasgow Caledonian University in Scotland, where he also played semi-professional cricket. It was during this time that he discovered his talent and potential in the sport. His father, Tasadaq Hussian Raza, runs a motor parts business. Despite not pursuing cricket professionally themselves, his father and uncles actively played the sport in Pakistan and encouraged his ambitions. Sikandar Raza wears the jersey number 24 for Zimbabwe across all formats, including Test matches, ODIs, and T20Is. This number has become synonymous with his identity on the field, often helping fans instantly recognize him during games. It reflects his reliability and consistent presence in the team. He is married to Laila Khan and prefers to keep his family life discreet. Few public images or references to his spouse appear online, highlighting his preference for privacy regarding personal matters while focusing on his cricketing career. His earnings come from match fees, league contracts, and sponsorship agreements, which collectively shape his financial standing. As of the latest estimates, Sikandar Raza’s net worth is approximately ₹37 crore. Sikandar Raza debuted for Zimbabwe in 2013. His ODI debut took place on 3 May 2013 against Bangladesh, followed by his T20I debut on 11 May 2013, also against Bangladesh. Later that year, on 3 September 2013, he played his first Test match against Pakistan. Since then, he has become an essential player in Zimbabwe’s line-up across all formats. Recently, he set a national record for the most appearances by a Zimbabwean in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. In Test cricket, he has featured in 22 matches, accumulating 1,434 runs at an average of 34.14. His highest score is 127, comprising 1 century and 11 half-centuries. In ODIs, he has played 153 matches, scoring 4,476 runs at an average of 36.99. This includes 7 centuries and 24 half-centuries, with numerous boundaries. Regarding T20I statistics, he has amassed 2,883 runs across 127 matches for Zimbabwe, averaging 25.74. This includes 1 century and 16 half-centuries, showcasing his adaptability in the shortest format. Sikandar Raza has participated in numerous global T20 leagues. He has scored 687 runs in the ILT20 and 591 in the PSL. Additionally, he has competed in the IPL, CPL, BPL, and other tournaments, demonstrating steady performances. His best average in a league came in the Vitality Blast, where he posted an impressive 41.20 across eight matches. He has accumulated several career highlights. In 2017, he played a pivotal role in Zimbabwe’s historic series victory over Sri Lanka. In 2018, he was honored as the Player of the Tournament in the ICC World Cup Qualifiers. In 2022, he received the Player of the Series award in the ODI series against Bangladesh and became the first Zimbabwean to record three ODI centuries while chasing targets. In 2023, he set a national record by smashing the fastest ODI century, scoring 102 runs off just 54 deliveries. In 2024, he made history by striking the first T20I century for Zimbabwe, recording an unbeaten 133 against Gambia. Regarding his IPL salary, Sikandar Raza was acquired by the Punjab Kings for ₹50 lakh in the IPL auction of 2023. As of 2025, his estimated net worth stands at around $5 million USD. In the IPL, Sikandar Raza represented the Punjab Kings in both 2023 and 2024. Fans and teammates often refer to him simply as “Raza.” He is married, and his wife’s name is Laila Khan. All imagery used is for editorial use only and is licensed solely through Getty/Source.