Sikandar Raza Joins Steelbacks for Vitality Blast

All-rounder Sikandar Raza will join Northamptonshire for the Vitality Blast.

Captain of the Zimbabwean National Side in T20 cricket, Raza brings the experience of more than 200 T20 appearances to the squad.

“I’m delighted to be coming to Northamptonshire.” Raza said.

“This will be a different challenge for me but I’ve loved playing cricket in England in the past. It’s always been a wish to play in the Vitality Blast so I’m looking forward to fulfilling that.”

Currently ranked 5th in the ICC Men’s T20I All-rounder world rankings, Raza has scored more than 4,000 runs and claimed more than 100 wickets since his debut in 2010.

The 37-year-old recently became the first player to score five consecutive T20 international half centuries and was recently nominated as ICC Men’s T20I Cricketer of the Year.

“We’re delighted with the signing of Sikander for the Blast.” Head Coach John Sadler said.

“He’s a very experienced, high performer on a global scale. He’s a three dimensional cricketer who always has an impact in every game he plays, we know he’s also a fierce competitor which will be fantastic for us.”

Raza will join the squad ahead of the tournament and is available for all 14 matches of the group stage and said his focus was clear.

“I would like to entertain the fans and put a smile on their face with as many wins as possible.

“Our first task is to secure a quarter final spot and then take that momentum and belief into the latter stages and hopefully lift the trophy.“

Looking at the side we have a decent squad and a lot of good players, I’m looking forward to using my experience to help us win as many games as possible and help the younger players as well.”