Sikandar Raza Opens Up on Warm IPL Reception From Punjab Kings Teammates in India

Zimbabwe all-rounder Sikandar Raza has spoken warmly about his experiences during his Indian Premier League (IPL) stint, saying he felt “respected” and “valued” during his time with Punjab Kings in 2023 and 2024. Raza, who is currently playing for Lahore Qalandars in the Pakistan Super League 2026, reflected on the hospitality he received in India, highlighting both professional respect within the team and personal bonds he built off the field. His comments come months after he went unsold in the IPL 2025 auction and did not register for the subsequent bidding cycle.

Raza said he was deeply moved by the way his Punjab Kings teammates treated him, adding that he felt fully accepted within the dressing room. He recalled that the camaraderie extended beyond matches and training sessions, with teammates making him feel included during travel and daily interactions. According to him, the environment helped him settle quickly in the IPL setup and allowed him to perform without pressure, as he always felt backed by the group.

The all-rounder also shared personal anecdotes that reflected the friendships he formed during his IPL journey. He mentioned visiting a teammate’s home, describing it as a rare gesture that left a lasting impression on him. Raza said he was surprised by the warmth extended to him by the family, who continued to stay in touch with him even after his stint with the franchise ended. He described the experience as a reminder of how sport can build deep personal connections beyond professional boundaries.

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Raza further revealed that he was also hosted by India fast bowler Arshdeep Singh, where he spent time with the pacer’s family and shared meals and conversations. He noted that Arshdeep’s family appreciated his ability to speak Punjabi, which helped him bond more naturally with them. These moments, he said, stood out as highlights of his time in India and reinforced his positive memories of the IPL environment.

Born in Sialkot, Punjab in present-day Pakistan, Raza moved to Zimbabwe with his family and went on to represent the African nation internationally. Initially aspiring to become a fighter pilot, his career path changed after he failed an eye test, eventually leading him to cricket. He made his Zimbabwe debut in 2013 and has since become one of their key all-rounders, while also building a reputation in global T20 leagues for his adaptability and experience.

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