Zimbabwe set a new T20 world record with a score of 344-4 against The Gambia, winning the match by 290 runs and securing qualification for the final round of the Africa qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup. Sikandar Raza scored 133* off 43 balls, contributing to this historic innings.
In a remarkable display of cricket prowess, Zimbabwe established a new record for the highest team score in men’s T20 International history by amassing a staggering 344 runs for the loss of 4 wickets in their World Cup qualifying match against The Gambia in Nairobi, Kenya. This achievement was highlighted by Sikandar Raza’s extraordinary performance, scoring an unbeaten 133 runs from just 43 deliveries, which included a remarkable century reached in only 33 balls, thereby equalling the record for the second-fastest T20I century. Zimbabwe’s dominance was further underscored by contributions from Tadiwanashe Marumani, who scored 62 runs off 19 balls, and Clive Madande, who finished not out with 53 runs from 17 balls. Brian Bennett also made a significant contribution with a score of 50 runs from 26 balls. Defensively, the team excelled, with Brandon Mavuta and Richard Ngarava each taking three wickets, limiting The Gambia to a mere 54 runs in 14.4 overs, thus securing victory by 290 runs. This victory guarantees Zimbabwe’s progression to the final round of Africa’s qualification for the 2026 World Cup, alongside other teams such as Namibia, Uganda, Tanzania, Malawi, and Kenya who have also qualified.
The match occurred during the 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup Sub-Regional Africa Qualifier in Nairobi, which is critical for teams aiming to qualify for the 2026 World Cup. The previous record for the highest T20 score was held by Nepal, who scored 314-3 against Mongolia in 2022. Zimbabwe’s record-breaking innings has not only set a new benchmark in terms of scoring in the T20 format but also emphasizes the growing competitiveness of associate nations in international cricket, particularly within the African cricket landscape. The qualifying rounds are a crucial pathway for the advancement of cricketing nations, and Zimbabwe’s achievement positions them strongly for future competitions.
Zimbabwe’s record-setting victory over The Gambia, with a phenomenal score of 344-4, represents a significant milestone in men’s T20 International cricket. This match not only showcases the extraordinary talent within the Zimbabwean team, particularly that of Sikandar Raza, but also marks a new era for the nation’s aspirations in the global cricketing arena as they advance towards the World Cup. With this stunning performance, Zimbabwe has solidified its position among top associate teams in the sport.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
