Zimbabwe secured the largest win in T20 history by defeating The Gambia by 290 runs in Nairobi, achieving a record innings total of 344/4 and bowling their opponents out for 54 runs. Sikandar Raza scored a remarkable 133 runs in 43 balls, marking his maiden T20 International century, while Zimbabwe also set a new record with 27 sixes in an innings. This victory surpasses the previous record margin of 273 runs set by Nepal against Mongolia.
In a remarkable display of cricketing prowess, Zimbabwe achieved the highest margin of victory in T20 history by defeating The Gambia by 290 runs during the T20 World Cup Sub Regional Africa Qualifier Group B at the Ruaraka Sports Club Ground in Nairobi on Wednesday. Zimbabwe established a formidable innings total of 344 for 4 wickets before bowling The Gambia out for a mere 54 runs in 14.4 overs, thereby surpassing the previous record margin of 273 runs set by Nepal against Mongolia. Sikandar Raza emerged as the star performer, scoring an impressive 133 runs off just 43 deliveries. This remarkable performance included a staggering 15 sixes, enabling Raza to achieve his maiden T20 International century and propel Zimbabwe to its highest-ever total in this format, exceeding the prior record of 314 for 3 held by Nepal against Mongolia from the previous year. In addition to the record score, Zimbabwe’s innings featured 27 sixes, narrowly breaking the previous record held by Nepal by one six. Raza reached his century in just 33 balls, becoming the first Zimbabwean player to accomplish this milestone in an international T20 match. The opening partnership of Brian Bennett and Tadiwanashe Marumani laid a strong foundation, adding 98 runs for the first wicket off 34 balls before Raza teamed up with Clive Madande, who scored an unbeaten 53 runs, resulting in a partnership of 141 runs for the fifth wicket—achieved in merely 40 balls. On the bowling side, seamer Musa Jobarteh unfortunately recorded the worst T20 bowling figures, conceding 93 runs in his four over spell. Zimbabwe aspires to move forward in the Africa qualifying tournament for the 2026 T20 World Cup, scheduled to be held in India and Sri Lanka.
The cricketing world witnessed an extraordinary match during the T20 World Cup Sub Regional Africa Qualifier Group B, where Zimbabwe faced off against The Gambia. This match took place against the backdrop of the quest for qualification for the prestigious T20 World Cup in 2026. Zimbabwe’s performance not only reflected their batting and bowling skills but also demonstrated their intention to advance to the next stage of qualification. The previous record for the highest margin of victory in T20 cricket was 273 runs, held by Nepal, which was eclipsed by Zimbabwe’s remarkable achievement.
In conclusion, Zimbabwe’s historic victory over The Gambia stands as a significant moment in T20 cricket history, characterized by a record margin of victory and outstanding individual performances, notably by Sikandar Raza. This match has not only solidified Zimbabwe’s position in the tournament but also set new benchmarks in T20 cricket that may stand for years to come. Looking ahead, Zimbabwe aims to continue their success in the ongoing qualifiers for the 2026 T20 World Cup, showcasing their potential on the international stage.
Original Source: www.news18.com
