Zimbabwe set a new record in T20 cricket by scoring 344 for 4 against Gambia in the Africa sub-regional qualifier, with Sikandar Raza achieving the fastest century for the nation at 133 runs from 33 balls, including 15 sixes. The team broke previous records for highest total and most sixes in an innings, demonstrating their rapid ascent in the format.
On Wednesday, Zimbabwe made history with a remarkable performance at the men’s T20 World Cup Africa sub-regional qualifier by posting an unprecedented score of 344 for 4 against Gambia. This remarkable total not only set the record for the highest team score in T20 cricket but also saw Sikandar Raza rise to prominence as he secured the first T20I century for Zimbabwe, achieving this milestone in just 33 balls. Raza’s innings of 133 runs, including an astonishing 15 sixes, was instrumental in surpassing the previous record for the highest T20 total (314) and the most sixes hit in a single innings (26). The match took place at the Ruaraka Sports Club Ground in Nairobi, where Zimbabwe displayed a dominant and aggressive approach from the outset. They reached fifty runs in a mere 3.2 overs, with Tadiwanashe Marumani notably bringing up his personal score within 13 balls. The team had amassed 100 runs before the powerplay concluded, showcasing a relentless assault on the opposing bowlers. In total, the Zimbabwean team struck 57 boundaries, setting yet another T20 record. Four players achieved half-centuries, another unprecedented feat for the country, with Brian Bennett contributing 50 runs from 26 balls and Clive Mandande finishing with 53 runs off just 17 balls, culminating his innings with a six off the final delivery. Sikandar Raza’s performance stood out as he began his innings after the seventh over, demonstrating extraordinary skill and power. His speed in reaching the century has placed him alongside Jan Nicol Loftie-Eaton of Namibia, as they both achieved the second-fastest century in T20I history. Gambia, the smallest country in continental Africa, struggled defensively, highlighted by Musa Jorbateh’s dismal bowling figures of 93 runs in four overs – a record for the most runs conceded by a bowler in a T20 match. Despite their efforts, Gambia continued to seek their first victory in the ongoing Africa sub-regional qualifiers, having previously forfeited matches against Rwanda and Seychelles, while Zimbabwe celebrated their third consecutive win.
This monumental achievement by Zimbabwe is significant in the context of T20 cricket, a format that has gained immense popularity since its inception. The previous records for the highest team total and the most sixes in an innings were set by Nepal, demonstrating the evolving nature of this fast-paced game. Zimbabwe’s match against Gambia marks a pivotal moment in their cricketing history and a testament to their emergence as a competitive force in international cricket. The T20 format encourages aggressive batting and innovative strategies, and Zimbabwe’s extraordinary performance illustrates their capability and potential on the global stage.
In summary, Zimbabwe’s stunning total of 344 for 4 against Gambia represents a landmark achievement in T20 cricket, establishing new records for the highest innings total and the most sixes. Sikandar Raza’s phenomenal century serves as a highlight of the match and the tournament, placing Zimbabwe on the map of elite T20 cricket. This performance not only boosts the team’s morale but also enhances the country’s cricketing reputation as they advance in the Africa sub-regional qualifier tournament.
Original Source: www.espncricinfo.com
