Biography of Ahmed Raza

Ahmed Raza, born on October 10, 1988, in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates, is a prominent cricketer who has made significant contributions to the UAE national team. A left-arm orthodox bowler and a right-handed batsman, Raza's journey from local cricketing systems to international representation reflects his dedication, resilience, and skill.

Early Life

Growing up in Sharjah, a city known for its passion for cricket, Raza was exposed to the sport from a young age. His family, recognizing his talent, encouraged him to pursue cricket actively. He honed his skills in the local leagues, where he quickly gained attention for his effective bowling and reliable batting. Ahmed's hard work and commitment paved the way for his selection in regional teams, where he began to make a name for himself among cricketing circles.

Debut and Early Career

Ahmed Raza made his international debut for the UAE in a One Day International (ODI) match against Zimbabwe on April 21, 2014. His performances in domestic leagues earned him a reputation as a dependable player, and he quickly established himself as a key member of the national squad. Raza's international career was off to a promising start, and he continued to represent the UAE in various formats over the following years.

Key Milestones and Achievements

Over the years, Raza achieved numerous milestones that underscored his impact on the game. His notable performances in the ICC World Cup Qualifiers and various T20 tournaments highlighted his versatility as a bowler and potential as a lower-order batsman. One of his significant achievements came during the 2015 ICC World Cup Qualifiers, where he played an instrumental role in helping the UAE clinch a spot in the tournament.

In 2018, Raza was named the captain of the UAE team, a recognition of his leadership skills and the respect he garnered from teammates and selectors alike. Under his captaincy, the team showed remarkable improvement, highlighting his ability to inspire and motivate players.

Records and Career Stats

Ahmed Raza's statistics reflect a successful cricketing career, characterized by consistency and effective performances. As of October 2023, his career statistics across all formats are impressive:

One Day Internationals (ODIs)

• Matches: 67
• Runs: 1,058
• Batting Average: 21.16
• Top Score: 82
• Wickets: 88
• Bowling Average: 35.15
• Best Bowling: 4/36

T20 Internationals (T20Is)

• Matches: 43
• Runs: 452
• Batting Average: 15.07
• Top Score: 42
• Wickets: 56
• Bowling Average: 22.25
• Best Bowling: 3/12

First-Class Matches

• Matches: 23
• Runs: 1,022
• Batting Average: 29.30
• Top Score: 145
• Wickets: 78
• Bowling Average: 25.50
• Best Bowling: 7/34

Impact on the Game

Ahmed Raza's impact on UAE cricket has been profound. As one of the leading bowlers in the national setup, he played a pivotal role in elevating the team's profile on the international stage. His ability to perform under pressure and lead a promising squad helped inspire a new generation of cricketers in the UAE.

Raza also contributed to promoting cricket within the region, often engaging with young cricketers through coaching clinics and workshops. His journey serves as an inspiration, exemplifying how dedication, hard work, and leadership can uplift an entire sporting culture.

Conclusion

Ahmed Raza's journey from the streets of Sharjah to representing the UAE on the world stage is a testament to his talent and perseverance. With numerous records and an illustrious career, he remains a significant figure in UAE cricket, embodying the spirit of the game and inspiring future generations of cricketers.