Colombo, February 19 Skipper Sikandar Raza said Zimbabwe's impressive run in the T20 World Cup group stages has earned his team respect from everyone, and he hopes to recreate the universally beloved underdog's victory story in the Super Eights against tough opponents.
The Africans showed glimpses of their ability to surprise, while defeating Australia and Sri Lanka in Group B matches here.
"We are focused on the future. If I focus on the present, I don't think anyone gave us a chance. To win everyone's hearts and respect, it's a good position to be in," Raza said in the post-match presentation after his team's win over SL.
Now, Raza is looking ahead to the Super Eights, where they will face reigning champions India, two-time champions West Indies, and 2024 finalists South Africa.
However, he is not intimidated.
"We will take one game at a time. We arrive on the 21st, and then train on the 22nd, and then it's showtime. Whatever happens, happens. If we can win two out of three games, who knows what can happen. Everyone loves an underdog story," Raza added.
Returning to the match against the Lankans, Raza said that the home team was 10 runs short of a defendable total.
"When we lost the toss, all I told the boys was that if we are truly playing good cricket, why does the toss matter? I bowled, and said that finger-spinners are not finding much turn, so we can put them under pressure.
"I came into the changing room and said they were 10 runs short (at the break). We have trained for every situation. We have the right personnel to send in at the right time. We have got all those roles clear, and that is why you see the confidence in the changing room," he said.
But for now, Raza wanted to celebrate his team's Super Eights entry.
"We are unbeaten so far, but it's only the next game that comes to mind. It's a nice position to be in as a captain, but I will try to enjoy at least tonight," he said.
