World Number 1 Sikandar Raza Honoured By President Mnangagwa Ahead Of T20 World Cup

World number one all-rounder Sikandar Raza has been formally honoured by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, with the Zimbabwe Chevrons captain receiving a personal gift at State House in recognition of his rise to the top of world cricket.

The honour places Raza’s global number one status at the centre of national attention, coming just days before Zimbabwe’s departure for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 in India and Sri Lanka.

Raza confirmed the development on January 28, 2026, in a message shared on X, where he reflected on the significance of the recognition from the country’s highest office.

“I want to thank His Excellency for sharing his valuable time and honouring me with the gift,” Raza wrote.

“The highest office recognising being the World Number 1 is a testament of the support to me and to cricket.”

Gift Handed Over At State House

Raza collected a brand-new Ford Ranger from President Mnangagwa at State House. The vehicle had been promised earlier in recognition of his performances, but was only handed over now due to the player’s international schedule.

Raza once again used his own words to describe the moment.

“This kind gesture will encourage all athletes to excel in their respective sports,” he said.

“In sha Allah (God willing), we will have more number ones in different sports and will raise the Zimbabwe flag high.”

The recognition comes after a sustained period of excellence. Raza is currently ranked number one in the ICC Men’s T20I all-rounder rankings and sits second in the ODI all-rounder standings, cementing his place among the most consistent performers in the world game.

Recognition Ahead Of T20 World Cup

The timing of the honour aligns with Zimbabwe’s preparations for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, scheduled to run from February 7 to March 8. Zimbabwe secured qualification through the Africa Qualifier in 2025, progressing alongside Namibia.

Raza captained the side during the qualifiers and has remained central to the team’s plans.

“The highest office recognising being the World Number 1 is a testament of the support to me and to cricket,” Raza said.

“This kind gesture will encourage all athletes to excel.”

Zimbabwe have been placed in Group B, alongside Australia, Ireland, Oman and Sri Lanka. Preparations have included the involvement of former West Indies fast bowler Courtney Walsh in the technical setup.

A Career Defined By Rankings And Records

Raza’s rise has been documented in official ICC updates. On September 3, 2025, the International Cricket Council (ICC) confirmed him as the world’s number one ODI all-rounder for the first time. On November 26, 2025, he also climbed to the top of the T20I all-rounder rankings, underlining his consistency across formats.

The presidential honour places a national stamp on achievements already recognised globally.