Zimbabwe captain Raza admits batting failures after third T20I defeat to India

In the third T20I between India and Zimbabwe at Harare on July 26, 2026, India secured a convincing victory, taking an unassailable lead in the series. Chasing a target of 220, Zimbabwe fell short, with captain Sikandar Raza acknowledging his own poor form with the bat as a key factor in the loss.

Speaking after the match, Raza analysed his team's performance. He credited India's batting display, particularly the innings of Ishan Kishan and Tilak Varma, describing their skill as 'admirable' and something his side could learn from. 'Some of the shots they played and the skill they showed today were certainly admirable,' Raza said.

Raza identified fielding as an area needing improvement. 'We've been saying for some time now that we can be better in the field, and if the fielding department can support the bowlers a bit more, it'll add extra pressure on the opposition,' he noted.

However, the Zimbabwe captain was most critical of his own batting performances. 'Most importantly, I think I've been letting the team down as captain with my batting. The onus is on me to get it right because the team needs my runs, and unfortunately that hasn't been the case over the last two T20 games,' Raza admitted. He expressed hope that he would turn his form around, saying, 'Inshallah, I'll do my best to turn it around because the team could really do with my runs.'

Zimbabwe had earlier bowled well in patches but could not contain India's batsmen, who posted a strong total. Despite a positive start from the openers, the chase faltered due to inexperience and poor shot selection, according to Raza.

The defeat leaves Zimbabwe trailing in the series with two matches remaining. The fourth T20I is scheduled for July 28 at the same venue.