Zimbabwe achieved the highest total in T20 International history with 344/4 runs against Gambia during a match at the T20 World Cup Sub Regional Africa Qualifier. Captain Sikandar Raza’s explosive century, alongside a record number of sixes hit, propelled the team past previous records held by Nepal and India.
In a historic performance, Zimbabwe recorded the highest total in T20 International history, amassing 344 runs for 4 wickets in their allotted 20 overs during the T20 World Cup Sub Regional Africa Qualifier Group B match against Gambia at the Ruaraka Sports Club Ground in Nairobi on Wednesday. Captain Sikandar Raza led the charge with a remarkable innings of 133 runs off just 43 balls, a performance that significantly contributed to eclipsing the previous record for the highest total set by a Test nation in a T20 International. Prior to Zimbabwe’s feat, the highest recorded total was 314, achieved by Nepal against Mongolia during the 2023 Asian Games in Hangzhou. In this record-breaking innings, Zimbabwe struck 27 sixes, surpassing Nepal’s previous record of 26 sixes against Mongolia. Historically, the record for the highest total by a full-member nation in T20Is was held by India, who scored 297 for six against Bangladesh in 2024. The latest rankings for the highest team totals in T20 Internationals are as follows: 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 of cricket has seen a series of record-setting totals, particularly in major tournaments and qualifiers. Zimbabwe’s recent achievement highlights the increasing competition in international cricket, especially among teams in the African region. The significance of these records extends beyond mere statistics, illustrating the evolution and enhancement of sportsmanship and skill level among cricketing nations, particularly emerging teams like Zimbabwe and Nepal. This achievement not only positions Zimbabwe in the history books but also has implications for their future in international tournaments as they continue to develop their cricket infrastructure and talent pool.
Zimbabwe’s unprecedented score of 344 runs represents a new pinnacle for T20 cricket, not only marking their position in T20 International history but also showcasing the potential for growth and competitiveness in emerging cricketing nations. With captains like Sikandar Raza leading the charge, the future appears promising for Zimbabwean cricket. The implications of this victory and record may inspire other teams within the African region to elevate their performance levels and strive for similar records in the future.
Original Source: sportstar.thehindu.com
