Sikandar Raza (Image credit: Zimbabwe Cricket) NEW DELHI: The cricket fraternity in Zimbabwe has been deeply shaken following the heartbreaking news shared by the family of national T20I captain Sikandar Raza. In a tragic development that resonated across the global cricket community, Raz’s younger brother, Muhammad Mahdi, was confirmed to have died earlier this week.Zimbabwe Cricket took to their social media and issued an official statement.
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“Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) extends its sincere condolences to Zimbabwe T20I captain Sikandar Raza and his family in light of the untimely demise of his beloved younger brother Muhammad Mahdi who departed this life on 29 December 2025 in Harare, aged just 13.“Muhammad Mahdi was born with the serious medical condition of hemophilia and sadly lost his life due to recent and serious medical complications. He was laid to rest on 30th December 2025 at Warren Hills Cemetery in Harare. The entire ZC board, management, players and staff are united in unwavering solidarity with Sikandar Raza’s family and his grieving period. May Muhammad Mahdi’s soul rest in peace in eternal peace. rest,” the statement reads. Raza himself reacted to the tragic news on social media, sharing a heartbroken emoji under Zimbabwe Cricket’s condolence message.The personal loss comes at a challenging stage in Raz’s professional career. He was last seen in action for Sharjah Warriorz during ILT20 2025 where he appeared in 10 matches, scoring 171 runs and taking 10 wickets.His performances in the UAE further cemented his reputation as one of the game’s most reliable all-rounders, especially in the shortest format. Even as he deals with immense personal heartbreak, the focus remains on Raza as he prepares for one of the biggest tasks of his career – the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup, which is set to begin in February.As a cornerstone of the Zimbabwean side, Raza’s leadership on the world stage will be essential. While the loss of his brother, who battled hemophilia since birth, is a significant emotional blow, the thoughts and prayers of the global cricket community remain with Sikandar Raza and his family at this difficult time.
