The Zimbabwe Cricket Team set a new world record in T20Is by scoring 344 runs for 4 wickets against Gambia, winning by 290 runs. Sikandar Raza was the Player of the Match with an explosive 133 runs off 43 balls, while Gambia managed only 54 runs in reply. Raza’s innings included a record-breaking century off just 33 balls, surpassing the previous T20I highest score record held by Nepal.
In a remarkable display of batting prowess, the Zimbabwe Cricket Team achieved a monumental feat by scoring 344 runs for 4 wickets in a T20 International match against Gambia, setting a new world record for the highest total in T20Is. This historic achievement occurred during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Sub-Regional Africa Qualifier Group B match. Zimbabwe’s overwhelming performance not only marked a record-breaking score but also led to a resounding victory, as the team dismissed Gambia for just 54 runs, winning the match by an astonishing 290-run margin. Sikandar Raza earned the title of Player of the Match, contributing an unbeaten 133 runs off 43 balls, which included a staggering seven fours and 15 sixes. He notably broke the record for the fastest century in T20 Internationals by a player from a Test-playing nation, achieving his hundred in merely 33 balls. Raza was supported significantly by Tadiwanashe Marumani, who scored 62 runs off 19 balls, and Clive Madande, who remained not out at 53 runs from 17 deliveries. In contrast, Gambia struggled to establish their innings, with Andre Jarju being their top scorer with just 12 runs, as both Frank Campbell and Asim Ashraf contributed seven runs each. On the bowling front for Zimbabwe, Brandon Mavuta and Richard Ngarava excelled, each securing three wickets for minimal runs, supporting the team’s formidable performance. Zimbabwe’s remarkable score eclipsed the previous record of 314 runs for 3 wickets, which had been accomplished by Nepal against Mongolia during the Asian Games in 2023.
The ability to score runs at an unprecedented rate in T20 cricket is a testament to the evolving nature of the game, particularly evident in the recent achievements of teams participating in international competitions. The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Sub-Regional Africa Qualifier Group B brought together various teams, with Zimbabwe showcasing their batting strength in a memorable match against Gambia. The significance of breaking the highest score record enhances the stature of T20 format cricket and emphasizes the competitiveness among nations striving to excel in this format.
In conclusion, Zimbabwe’s record-breaking innings of 344 runs in T20Is against Gambia not only illustrates the exceptional talent within the team, particularly that of Sikandar Raza, but also signifies a milestone in the annals of cricket history. With a substantial victory margin and exceptional individual performances, Zimbabwe has firmly established its position in the world of T20 cricket.
Original Source: indianexpress.com