The Sunday Mail
ZIMBABWE batsman Sikander Raza has revealed that the dressing room was down following Chris Gayle’s historic innings in the 73-run defeat to West Indies but insists it’s all forgotten as they bid to keep their World Cup hopes alive.
The Chevrons are in action against Pakistan this morning in their fourth Pool A match at the Gabba in Brisbane and Raza on Friday told The Sunday Mail that the boys are ready to bounce back.
A win for the team could re-ignite their World Cup campaign, with two more games still to play, while a loss in this morning’s encounter could prove disastrous.
“It was frustrating and we have ourselves to blame.
“He (Gayle) should have been out just after his hundred but it was a no ball, plus that lbw shout that was not given out didn’t help.
“When it’s your day then it’s your day,” the 27-year-old said of Gayle’s record-breaking innings, where he became the first player to score a World Cup double hundred (215).
“We are still very confident of beating Ireland and Pakistan, with prayers and luck it’s very possible.”
Away from the pitch, Raza disclosed that the boys are enjoying the hospitality Down Under.
“We have been treated very nicely and a lot of effort has been made to make sure life is comfortable.
“It’s up to individuals; I like chilling with teammates and enjoy a cup of coffee . . . I also have good chats with some of the South African and UAE players.
Leg spinner Tafadzwa Kamungozi said: “It has been good, but I can only comment more about New Zealand as we have been there all along.”
Faffy, as Kamungozi is called by his team mates, did express some concerns though.
“The pitches are not that assisting but if you put something on the ball they do reward.
“The main concern is that their boundaries are very small, but it’s not a big thing because we also bat on the same venue. However, it’s always a tough job for the bowlers as you need to be spot on always,” he said.
Zimbabwe play Ireland next on March 7 in Hobart.
