Zimbabwe established a new T20 world record with a score of 344-4 in a match against The Gambia at the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Sikandar Raza scored 133 not out from 43 balls as Zimbabwe triumphed by 290 runs after dismissing The Gambia for 54 runs. This achievement breaks the previous record of 314-3 held by Nepal. Zimbabwe has advanced to the final qualifying round for the 2026 World Cup along with five other nations.
In a remarkable display of cricketing prowess, Zimbabwe achieved a historic milestone in the realm of T20 international cricket by setting a new world record for the highest team score. During a match against The Gambia in Nairobi, Kenya, Zimbabwe amassed an astounding total of 344 runs for the loss of four wickets in their allotted 20 overs. Sikandar Raza was the standout performer, scoring an impressive 133 runs not out from just 43 deliveries, marking a significant contribution to the record-setting performance. The Gambian team, in stark contrast, was bowled out for a mere 54 runs, resulting in a staggering victory for Zimbabwe, which was by 290 runs. This breathtaking feat breaks the previous record of 314 runs for three wickets held by Nepal against Mongolia in Hangzhou, China, last year. Raza’s century reached in just 33 balls places him alongside Jan Nicol Loftie-Eaton of Namibia as the second-fastest centurion in T20I cricket history. Furthermore, notable contributions came from Tadiwanashe Marumani, who scored 62 runs off 19 balls, Clive Madande at 53 runs off 17 balls, and Brian Bennett with 50 runs off 26 balls. On the bowling front, Brandon Mavuta and Richard Ngarava each claimed three wickets, further cementing Zimbabwe’s dominance on the field. As a consequence of this comprehensive victory, Zimbabwe has secured their place in the final qualifying round for the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup, scheduled to take place next year. Additionally, they are joined in this achievement by Namibia, Uganda, Tanzania, Malawi, and Kenya, who have also progressed to the final stage of the qualifiers.
The recent T20 World Cup qualifying match highlights the growing competitiveness and skill level within African cricket. This particular match marks a significant event not only for Zimbabwe but also for the overall landscape of T20 cricket, where records are increasingly being set and shattered in fast-paced games. The performance exhibited by Zimbabwe serves to enhance their reputation on the international stage and reflects the potential for growth in African cricket as nations strive to improve their standings in the global arena. With the next T20 World Cup approaching, such achievements will only bolster the enthusiasm and investment in cricket across the continent.
In conclusion, Zimbabwe’s record-breaking performance against The Gambia has not only set a new world record for the highest score in T20 international cricket but has also solidified their position in the final round of World Cup qualifying. The remarkable contributions from players such as Sikandar Raza and the team’s overall bowling and batting capabilities indicate a bright future for Zimbabwe cricket as they aim for further success on the international stage.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
