Zimbabwe’s T20I captain Sikandar Raza has suffered a personal tragedy with the death of his younger brother, Muhammad Mahdi, aged 13, earlier this week in Harare.

The news was confirmed by Zimbabwe Cricket in the early hours of January 1 through a statement on social media, expressing condolences to Raza and his family.

Zimbabwe Cricket confirms death

“Zimbabwe Cricket extends its heartfelt condolences to Zimbabwe T20I captain Sikandar Raza and his family in light of the untimely passing of his cherished younger brother, Muhammad Mahdi, who departed this life on 29 December 2025 in Harare, at the tender age of 13,” the board said.

Mahdi was laid to rest on December 30 at Warren Hills Cemetery in Harare, the statement added.

Long battle with haemophilia

Muhammad Mahdi was born with haemophilia, a rare inherited blood disorder in which the blood does not clot normally due to the absence of certain clotting factors. The condition can lead to prolonged bleeding even after minor injuries and, in severe cases, internal bleeding without visible trauma.

According to Zimbabwe Cricket, Mahdi passed away following recent and severe health complications related to the condition.

“The ZC Board, Management, Players and Staff stand united in solidarity with Sikandar Raza and his family during this profoundly difficult time,” the statement said, offering prayers and support to the bereaved family.

Raza’s role in Zimbabwe cricket

Sikandar Raza has been one of Zimbabwe’s most consistent and influential all-rounders in T20 internationals. He has featured in over 120 T20I matches, scoring more than 2,800 runs with a strike rate above 130, including a century and multiple half-centuries. With the ball, he has taken over 100 wickets and is regarded as a key match-winner.

Raza has captained Zimbabwe in around 60 T20Is and is widely expected to lead the side in the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, scheduled to be held in India and Sri Lanka, though the squad is yet to be announced.

Messages of support pour in

Messages of condolence have poured in from players, fans and cricket boards, acknowledging both the personal loss suffered by Raza and his continued contribution to Zimbabwe cricket.

The tragic loss has cast a shadow over Zimbabwe’s cricketing fraternity as the team prepares for a busy international calendar in the coming year