Zimbabwe scored an unprecedented total of 344 runs for 4 wickets against Gambia in the T20 World Cup Sub Regional Africa Qualifier, marking the highest score by a Test-playing nation in T20 internationals. Captain Sikandar Raza contributed a stunning 133 runs off 43 balls, leading the team to surpass Nepal’s previous record of 314 runs. Zimbabwe’s innings featured a remarkable 27 sixes, setting a new benchmark in T20 history.
In a historic performance, Zimbabwe achieved a remarkable total of 344 runs for the loss of 4 wickets in 20 overs during their T20 World Cup Sub Regional Africa Qualifier Group B match against Gambia at the Ruaraka Sports Club Ground in Nairobi. This score represents the highest total ever recorded by a Test-playing nation in T20 international cricket. The captain, Sikandar Raza, played a phenomenal innings, scoring 133 runs off just 43 balls, which significantly contributed to this monumental score. Prior to Zimbabwe’s achievement, the record for the highest team total was held by Nepal, which had scored 314 runs against Mongolia during the Asian Games in Hangzhou earlier in 2023. In the course of their innings, Zimbabwe displayed a powerful hitting display, smashing a total of 27 sixes, eclipsing the previous record of 26 sixes set by Nepal. Before this latest record, India had boasted the highest total by a full-member nation in T20Is, which was 297 for 6 against Bangladesh in 2024. Below is the updated list of the highest team totals in T20 international cricket: 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 recent achievement by Zimbabwe marks a significant moment in T20 international cricket, illustrating the evolving nature of the format and the increasing competitiveness among nations. T20 cricket, known for its fast-paced and high-scoring matches, frequently witnesses records being set and broken, reflecting the players’ abilities to score rapidly and efficiently. As the format gains popularity, such performances elevate the profiles of teams and players on global platforms, further promoting cricket internationally. This specific game underscores Zimbabwe’s potential in international cricket while also showcasing the growing prowess of other teams like Nepal.
In conclusion, Zimbabwe’s record-setting score of 344/4 against Gambia not only redefines the highest total in T20 international cricket but also highlights the nation’s capability to compete at the highest levels. Led by an explosive performance from Sikandar Raza, Zimbabwe has firmly established its place in the annals of cricket history, surpassing previous records held by other nations. This match serves as a testament to the increasing competitiveness of associate and full-member nations alike in the realm of T20 cricket.
Original Source: sportstar.thehindu.com
