Raza says sorry for Zim’s Cup exit
HARARE One of the toughest pill[s] to swallow for all of us together and the tears we shed yesterday (Thursday) describes the pain we felt fir everyone. SIKANDAR RAZA, On the loss
: Sikandar Raza has apologised to all the fans, families and friends of the Zimbabwe cricket team after defeat to the United Arab Emirates effectively ended their World Cup hopes.
Zimbabwe went into their final Super Six encounter on Thursday knowing a win against their unfancied opponents would secure their place at next year’s finals.
However, they stumbled to a three-run reverse via the Duckworth-Lewis method, opening the door for the winner of Friday’s meeting between Ireland and Afghanistan to steal in and snatch qualification.
And Raza, whose 3-41 and 34 from 26 balls proved in vain against the UAE, took to social media to express his sorrow for such a crushing disappointment.
“One of the toughest pill[s] to swallow for all of us together and the tears we shed yesterday (Thursday) describes the pain we all felt for everyone and for those who supported us,” he posted on Twitter. “Our fans and families and friends deserved better and all I can say is that We are truly very sorry !!!!!! ”
AFGHANS CHASE 210
Afghanistan restricted Ireland to 209/7 in a battle between two designated Test sides that will determine the second team that will qualify for the 2019 ICC World Cup in England, alongside West Indies. Paul Stirling (55) and Kevin O Brien (41) led Ireland’s scoring while Afghanistan leg-spinner Rashid Khan took 3/40.