Mumbai, February 23 (NationPress) - Zimbabwe skipper Sikandar Raza chose not to attribute his team's substantial 107-run defeat in their first Super 8 stage match to the venue change, despite being overpowered by a formidable West Indies team, who were bolstered by a stunning 34-ball 85 from Shimron Hetmyer and a quick-fire 35-ball 59 from Rovman Powell.

“If we focus on venue changes and country differences, we won't gain any insights. Learning from this match is crucial for me. We cannot make excuses; to move forward, we must win in every venue and country,” Raza stated post-match.

Hetmyer’s explosive innings included seven fours and seven sixes, with a remarkable 19-ball fifty, contributing to a 122-run partnership with Powell for the third wicket. This led West Indies to an impressive 254/6 in 20 overs, marking the highest team total of this World Cup and the second-highest in the tournament's history.

Zimbabwe struggled in their pursuit, losing three wickets during the power-play and being bowled out for 147 in just 17.4 overs. Their top scorer was Brad Evans with his 21-ball 43 (2 fours and 5 sixes), forming a notable 44-run partnership with Richard Ngarava for the last wicket. Meanwhile, Gudakesh Motie delivered a standout performance with figures of 4-28, while Akeal Hosein supported with 3-28, accelerating Zimbabwe's downfall.

Despite the uphill battle, Raza believed they had opportunities, but the pitch conditions turned out to be more challenging than anticipated. “We thought the wicket would remain consistent, but it started to turn. However, this was a valuable learning experience. There was a moment when Tony and I discussed that even if the required run rate reached 18, we could still achieve it. Motie's spell was pivotal in shifting the momentum. Yet, at this ground, you can never be completely out of the game,” Raza reflected during the post-match presentation.

While the defeat was disheartening for Zimbabwe, who had previously secured their Super 8 stage spot with unexpected victories over Australia and Sri Lanka, Raza was more concerned about a finger injury he sustained when reacting to a fierce shot from Powell during his bowling.

Raza plans to undergo a scan on his injured finger on Tuesday, remaining hopeful for a positive outcome. “The immediate plan is to have the scan tomorrow, and I’m optimistic it will be alright,” he noted.

Looking ahead, Zimbabwe is set to face the tournament hosts and reigning champions, India, at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on February 26. Raza is eager for this match, especially since India also lost their opening Super 8 match. “Absolutely, even with some bruises, we aim to win and earn respect. Both teams seek to improve after their losses,” Raza, who has transformed into a mystery spinner in the latter part of his career, concluded.