Zimbabwe Shatters the Record for Highest Men’s T20I Total

In a match that will be etched into the annals of T20 cricket history, Zimbabwe absolutely obliterated the record for the highest total in a Men’s T20I. In a match against Gambia in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Sub Regional Qualifier B, Zimbabwe posted an astonishing 344/4 in their 20 overs. The hero of the day was Sikandar Raza, who smashed an unbeaten 133 off just 43 balls, including a staggering 15 sixes.

A Record-Breaking Innings

Zimbabwe’s innings was a masterclass in power hitting. They brought up their fifty in just 3.2 overs and their hundred before the powerplay was even over. The team continued to accelerate, hitting a total of 57 boundaries in the innings, including 27 sixes. Four Zimbabwe batters contributed fifty-plus scores, another record. Brian Bennett made 50 off 26 balls, while Clive Mandande scored 53 off 17, hitting the final ball of the innings for six.

Raza’s Innings of the Century

Sikandar Raza’s innings was simply sensational. He came to the crease with the score at 155/3 in the eighth over and proceeded to demolish the Gambia bowling attack. He hit his maiden T20I century in just 33 balls, equaling the record for the fastest T20I century held by Jan Nicol Loftie-Eaton. Raza’s 15 sixes are the joint-fourth-most by a player in a T20I innings.

A Massive Victory

After posting their record-breaking total, Zimbabwe bowled out Gambia for just 54 runs in 14.4 overs, winning by a massive 290 runs. This victory also broke the record for the largest win in terms of runs in a T20I match.

Zimbabwe’s Dominance

Zimbabwe’s performance in this match was a clear statement of their intent in the tournament. They have now won all four of their matches in the Africa sub-regional qualifier and are looking to advance to the next stage of qualifying for the 2026 T20 World Cup.

A Historic Day for Zimbabwe

This match will be remembered as a historic day for Zimbabwe cricket. The team’s record-breaking total and Sikandar Raza’s incredible innings will be talked about for years to come.