Zimbabwe shattered the world record for the highest score in men’s T20I cricket, scoring 344 runs against The Gambia during a T20 World Cup qualifier. Openers Tadiwanashe Marumani and Brian Bennett launched the innings with aggressive batting, while captain Sikandar Raza contributed an unbeaten 133 off 43 balls. Zimbabwe’s total surpassed the previous T20I record of 314, and their performance showcased exceptional power-hitting with 27 sixes and 30 fours.
On October 23, 2024, Zimbabwe achieved a historic milestone in men’s T20 International cricket by recording the highest team total ever, amassing 344 runs for the loss of 4 wickets against The Gambia during a T20 World Cup qualifier match held at the Ruaraka Sports Club Ground in Nairobi, Kenya. Winning the toss, Zimbabwe opted to bat first. The innings began with an explosive performance from openers Tadiwanashe Marumani and Brian Bennett, who put on a rapid partnership, scoring 49 runs within the first three overs and reaching 92 runs in just five overs. Despite Marumani’s dismissal for a brisk 62 runs, Zimbabwe posted an impressive 102 for 1 at the conclusion of the Powerplay. Dion Myers contributed significantly, but it was captain Sikandar Raza, who arrived at the crease in the seventh over, that transformed the innings alongside Ryan Burl. Together, they propelled Zimbabwe past the 200-run mark within 13 overs, with Raza achieving his half-century off only 20 deliveries. By the end of the 17th over, Raza’s phenomenal batting helped Zimbabwe cross the previous T20I record of 314 runs, ultimately finishing their innings at a staggering 344 runs. Raza ended the innings unbeaten on 133 from just 43 balls, including 15 sixes and 7 fours, marking a powerful and record-breaking performance. In total, Zimbabwe recorded 27 sixes and 30 fours, showcasing an extraordinary hitting display. The bowling figures for The Gambia were bleak, with one bowler, Musa Jobarteh, conceding an alarming 93 runs in his four overs.
The match was part of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Sub Regional Africa Qualifier Group B, where teams vie for a chance to qualify for the T20 World Cup. Zimbabwe’s historical achievement not only demonstrates their cricketing prowess but also highlights their competitive spirit on an international stage. The previous record for the highest men’s T20I score was 314, held by Nepal. Zimbabwe’s record-busting innings emphasizes the evolving nature of the game where high-scoring matches are becoming more frequent due to aggressive batting techniques and strategies.
In conclusion, Zimbabwe’s remarkable achievement of setting a new world record with a score of 344-4 against The Gambia at the T20 World Cup Qualifier is a testament to their dynamic batting line-up and strategic gameplay. The performance of Sikandar Raza is particularly noteworthy, as he not only led his team to victory but also made a significant impact on the record books. This match will undoubtedly be remembered as a historic milestone in T20 cricket.
Original Source: www.wisden.com
