Reports: Sikandar Raza lodges complaint against Rainbow Cricket Club head coach, alleges racist abuse

Published - 08 Jun 2025, 18:34 IST | Updated - 08 Jun 2025, 21:01 IST

Zimbabwe T20I captain Sikandar Raza has lodged an official complaint with the Harare Metropolitan Cricket Association, alleging racist abuse during a recent Vigne Cup match. The incident reportedly unfolded during a local game where the veteran all-rounder was playing for his club.

According to local media reports, Raza was racially abused when he was making his way off the field. It is being said that Rainbow Cricket Club’s head coach, Blessing Mafuwa, made the alleged racist remarks directly toward the 39-year-old.

Witnesses on the ground have also reportedly supported Raza in the unfortunate saga. Now, the Sialkot-born has demanded that strict and appropriate action be taken against the Rainbow Cricket Club’s head coach, specifying that there is no place for such behaviour and racism in Zimbabwe Cricket.

"As per local reports this morning, Zimbabwe T20I captain Sikandar Raza has lodged a formal complaint with the Harare Metropolitan Cricket Association alleging racist abuse taking place against him in a recent Vigne Cup Match," Adam Theo, a Zimbabwean journalist, posted on 'X'.

"It is understood that Rainbow Cricket Club Head Coach Blessing Mafuwa hurled racist comments at Raza while he left the field. He has demanded a severe punishment. Investigations are underway. There is no room for racism in Zimbabwe Cricket," he added.

Raza is a bona fide legend of Zimbabwe Cricket. His contribution to the African side across formats is exemplary. He hasn't only contributed with the bat and ball but also inspired thousands of budding cricketers to take up the sport in Zimbabwe.

Raza has played 19 Tests, 151 ODIs, and 105 T20Is for Zimbabwe. He has scored 1353, 4325, and 2403 runs in the three formats, respectively. Meanwhile, with the ball, he has accounted for 39, 93, and 81 wickets, respectively. Raza is one of only three Zimbabwean cricketers to have played in the IPL. No other Zimbabwean has more appearances (9) than he in the cash-rich league.