Zimbabwe scored a record-breaking 344 runs for 4 wickets against Gambia, setting new records for the highest T20 total and the most sixes in an innings. Sikandar Raza became the first Zimbabwean to score a T20I century, making 133 runs off 43 balls, including 15 sixes.
On Wednesday, Zimbabwe made cricketing history by achieving a remarkable total of 344 runs for 4 wickets against Gambia during the Africa sub-regional qualifier tournament for the Men’s T20 World Cup. This total not only surpassed the previous record for highest T20 innings, held by Nepal at 314, but also set a new benchmark for the most sixes in a T20 innings, with Zimbabwe collectively hitting 27 sixes. Sikandar Raza was the standout performer, scoring an astonishing unbeaten 133 runs off just 43 balls, which included 15 sixes. This match marked Raza as the first player from Zimbabwe to score a century in T20 internationals, and his century was recorded in just 33 balls, tying him for the second-fastest T20I century in history. The innings commenced explosively, with Zimbabwe reaching their fifty within 3.2 overs and the team hundred before the powerplay concluded. Other contributors to the historic total included Brian Bennett, who scored 50 runs off 26 balls, and Clive Mandande, who contributed 53 runs off 17 balls, illustrating the team’s aggressive approach throughout the innings. In contrast, Gambia struggled in their bowling efforts, with Musa Jorbateh setting the record for the most runs conceded by a bowler in a T20 match, having given away 93 runs in his four overs. The match served as a testament to Zimbabwe’s dominance in the tournament, where they have secured victories in all three of their matches thus far.
Zimbabwe’s record-setting performance in T20 cricket signifies a major accomplishment in the country’s sporting history, particularly as it showcases the progress of their cricketing capabilities on the international stage. The previous record for the highest T20 innings was set by Nepal, while the record for the most sixes in an innings was also held by the same nation. The match against Gambia not only established new records but also illustrated the team’s competitive edge, especially with standout players like Sikandar Raza leading the charge. The performance serves to enhance Zimbabwe’s reputation within African cricket and highlights the potential growth of the sport in the region as they continue to compete in the T20 format.
In conclusion, Zimbabwe’s historic achievement of scoring 344 runs for 4 wickets against Gambia represents a landmark moment in the realm of T20 cricket. Sikandar Raza’s exceptional performance not only elevated him to the status of the country’s first T20I centurion but also placed him in the annals of record-holders for the second-fastest century. With multiple players contributing to this unprecedented total, Zimbabwe has firmly established itself as a formidable competitor in the African cricket scene, underscoring their prowess and potential for future tournaments.
Original Source: www.espncricinfo.com
