Zimbabwe set a new record for the highest T20 total with 344 runs against Gambia in the Africa sub-regional qualifier, highlighted by Sikandar Raza’s 133 not out off 33 balls. This match also featured four players scoring over fifty and marked a notable moment in T20 history, surpassing Nepal’s previous records.
On Wednesday, Zimbabwe set a new record for the highest total in T20 cricket, scoring 344 for 4 against Gambia during the men’s T20 World Cup Africa sub-regional qualifier tournament. This remarkable achievement saw Sikandar Raza become the first T20I centurion for Zimbabwe, reaching his century in a mere 33 balls and finishing with an impressive 133 not out, which included 15 sixes. Zimbabwe surpassed the previous record held by Nepal, who had posted 314 runs, as well as the record for the most sixes in an innings, totaling 27 in their performance. The match, held at the Ruaraka Sports Club Ground in Nairobi, showcased Zimbabwe’s aggressive batting approach. The team rapidly reached 50 runs in just 3.2 overs. Tadiwanashe Marumani notably scored his fifty in just 13 deliveries. By the conclusion of the powerplay, the team accumulated over 100 runs. Crucially, four players from Zimbabwe achieved scores exceeding fifty, setting another record for the format. Brian Bennett contributed 50 runs off 26 balls, while Clive Mandande scored 53 off just 17 deliveries, finishing the innings with a six on the last ball. Raza’s performance was particularly outstanding. Entering the match at the end of the seventh over, he quickly made an impact, hitting a six on only his third ball. His rapid century equaled the record for the second-fastest T20I century, previously set by Jan Nicol Loftie-Eaton of Namibia against Nepal in February 2024. In contrast, Gambia struggled to contain the onslaught, with Musa Jorbateh delivering a particularly expensive spell, conceding 93 runs in four overs, which marks the highest amount ever given by a bowler in T20 history. Gambia, which is also struggling in the tournament, remains winless having conceded walkovers to Rwanda and Seychelles earlier in the qualifiers, while Zimbabwe has continued its winning streak with three victories in three matches during this tournament.
The record-breaking innings by Zimbabwe represents a significant milestone in T20 cricket, illustrating not only the growth of the sport in the nation but also the increasing competitive nature of the global game. Previously, T20 matches have been characterized by high-scoring exchanges, but the achievement by Zimbabwe reflects a remarkable shift in their batting capability and strategic approach. Sikandar Raza’s stellar performance has also added to his personal legacy, marking an exceptional moment in Zimbabwean cricket history as they make strides on the international stage.
In summary, Zimbabwe’s achievement of scoring 344 for 4 against Gambia marks a historic moment in T20 cricket, setting new records for the highest team total and most sixes in an innings. Sikandar Raza’s explosive century is a testament to the advancing skill level within Zimbabwean cricket. The match not only highlights Zimbabwe’s potential but also serves as an inspiration for teams across the region and the broader cricketing world. Gambia’s challenges in the tournament further underscore the varying levels of experience and competitiveness in international T20 cricket today.
Original Source: www.espncricinfo.com
