In a historic T20I match, Zimbabwe scored 344/4 against Gambia, marking the highest total in T20 cricket. Sikandar Raza’s explosive 133 off 43 balls led the charge, surpassing Nepal’s previous record of 314 against Mongolia. Zimbabwe also set a new record with 27 sixes during the innings, breaking the previous record of 26.
Zimbabwe achieved a landmark feat by scoring 344 runs for the loss of 4 wickets in 20 overs, establishing a new record for the highest total in T20 International matches during the T20 World Cup Sub Regional Africa Qualifier Group B match against Gambia, held at the Ruaraka Sports Club Ground in Nairobi on Wednesday. The team’s captain, Sikandar Raza, delivered an extraordinary performance, contributing 133 runs off merely 43 balls, thus facilitating Zimbabwe’s historic accomplishment. This remarkable score not only eclipses the previous highest total by a Test-playing nation but also represents a significant milestone in T20 cricket history. Prior to Zimbabwe’s achievement, the record was held by Nepal, who scored 314 against Mongolia during the Asian Games in Hangzhou earlier in 2023. In addition, Zimbabwe’s innings were characterized by an astounding 27 sixes, surpassing the previous record of 26 sixes hit by Nepal in their match. Previously, India held the record for the highest T20I total by a full-member nation with 297 runs against Bangladesh in 2024. Below is the updated list of the highest team totals in T20Is: 1. Zimbabwe 344/4 vs Gambia – 2024 2. Nepal 314/3 vs Mongolia – 2023 3. India 297/6 vs Bangladesh – 2024 4. Afghanistan 278/3 vs Ireland – 2019 5. Czech Republic 278/4 vs Turkey – 2019 6. Malaysia 268/4 vs Thailand – 2023 7. England 267/3 vs West Indies – 2023 8. Australia 263/3 vs Sri Lanka – 2016 9. Sri Lanka 260/6 vs Kenya – 2007 10. India 260/5 vs Sri Lanka – 2017 11. South Africa 259/4 vs West Indies – 2023 12. Czech Republic 258/2 vs Bulgaria – 2022
The T20 format has become a significant aspect of modern cricket, attracting a wide audience and showcasing high-scoring matches. Records in T20I matches are frequently challenged as teams continually strive to achieve unprecedented scores. Recent tournaments, such as the T20 World Cup Sub Regional Africa Qualifier, have provided a platform for teams to compete vigorously. Zimbabwe’s latest record not only underlines their capabilities but also reflects the evolving landscape of T20 cricket. The previous highest totals, held by Nepal and India, highlight the competitive nature and tactical advancements in the game, further enhancing interest from fans and analysts alike. The significance of six-hitting in T20 matches, as exemplified by Zimbabwe’s 27 maximums, emphasizes the aggressive batting approach favored in this format.
In summary, Zimbabwe’s accomplishment of 344/4 in 20 overs not only sets a new record for the highest total in T20Is but also exemplifies the dynamic nature of T20 cricket. This achievement, spearheaded by the outstanding performance of captain Sikandar Raza, represents a noteworthy moment in cricket history, showcasing the increasing competitiveness of international teams within the T20 format. The record of most sixes hit during an innings further illustrates the evolving strategies employed by teams in the quest for high scores, ensuring that fans continue to witness thrilling performances.
Original Source: sportstar.thehindu.com
