Associate Nations have caught up with T20 format: Sikandar Raza

Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza believes the gap between Full Members and Associate nations has significantly narrowed in T20 cricket, as his side prepares to face Oman in their opening fixture of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 in Colombo.

Speaking ahead of the contest, the Zimbabwe captain stressed that teams traditionally labelled as underdogs are now well-equipped to challenge established sides in the shortest format.

"First of all, I do think all the Associate nations have caught up with the T20 format with the Test Nations rated especially maybe from 7, 8, 9, 10, 11. So credit to all the Associate countries how they have grown in T20 format, and rightly so. And hopefully the game can keep spreading and the gap can be even smaller,” noted Raza ahead of Zimbabwe's T20 World Cup opener against Oman.

The former World No.1 T20I all-rounder further credited the T20 leagues across the globe for narrowing the gap between the two even more.

"And of course with the help of franchise cricket as well, a lot of those Associate cricketers do find all those franchise gigs here and there as well and they take those lessons and learnings back home. Thanks to all those factors, T20 cricket has been brought a lot closer,” he concluded. 

Raza’s remarks have been backed by some stunning on-field performances at the ongoing World Cup. The USA’s fearless performance against India at the Wankhede Stadium showcased their growing confidence, while Nepal pushed England and forced them to work hard for their victory, another clear sign of the closing gap between teams.

Zimbabwe will be opening their campaign against Oman on February 9, at the Sinhalese Sports Club, Colombo. They are included in the Group B of the competition along with Ireland, co-hosts Sri Lanka, and Australia.