Story by Lawrence Trusida, Sports Editor
CHEVRONS T20 captain and world number one all-rounder Sikandar Raza was crowned the 2025 Sportsperson of the Year at the Annual National Sports Awards dinner held in Harare this Friday evening.
Raza enjoyed a sensational campaign with bat and ball, cementing his place at the summit of the ICC T20 and One Day International all-rounder rankings while continuing to carry Zimbabwe cricket on his shoulders in pressure situations.
The Chevrons talisman delivered match-winning knocks, produced crucial breakthroughs, and once again proved to be Zimbabwe’s most dependable player across formats as he orchestrated another stellar chapter in his illustrious career.
His outstanding exploits also played a pivotal role in helping Zimbabwe secure qualification for the World Cup, with Raza leading from the front through a string of commanding performances that inspired the national side.
Friday’s recognition was the perfect crowning moment for a player who has consistently raised Zimbabwe’s flag high on the international stage, with Raza finally converting years of excellence into the country’s most prestigious sporting honour.
“This is the most important award for me, you can see the respect in the room, it shows what you have achieved. Sometimes, you might not really see it, but when you get this, it means a lot. I worked hard, and hopefully, I can continue to deliver more,” he said.
Government also reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening sport development and recognising excellence.
“The Annual National Sports Awards are important because they reinforce a culture of recognition. They remind us that effort must be acknowledged, success celebrated and said. excellence rewarded. When we honour athletes, coaches, referees, administrators and sponsors, we are sending a powerful message to the nation that discipline, dedication and hard work matter,” Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture Lieutenant General (Rtd) Anslem Sanyatwe said.
“As we celebrate sporting excellence tonight, we must also recognise the many individuals who work tirelessly behind the scenes. Coaches spend countless hours preparing athletes. Administrators manage logistics and competitions.
“Officials ensure fairness and integrity. Families provide encouragement and sacrifices, while sponsors and communities continue to support our sporting ecosystem. Government, too, must continue playing its part through sound policies, institutional support and the creation of an enabling environment for sport to thrive.”
The rugby community also enjoyed a successful evening, with the Sables being named Team of the Year, while national rugby coach Pieter Benade scooped the Coach of the Year award.
Ruvarashe Makunike was named Junior Sportsperson of the Year, while rising triathlon star Zander Botha walked away with the Junior Sportsman of the Year accolade.
Simbarashe Mushayi was crowned Sportsman of the Year with a Disability, while tennis player Sasha Chimedza won the Sportswoman of the Year with a Disability award.
