In a stunning display of power-hitting, Zimbabwe’s cricket team set a new world record for the highest-ever team total in T20I cricket, amassing an incredible 344/6 against Gambia during the Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Sub-Regional Qualifier B. The previous record was held by India, who scored 297/6 earlier this month against Bangladesh.
Zimbabwe won the toss and chose to bat, immediately dominating the Gambia bowling attack. Openers Brian Bennett and Tadiwanashe Marumani laid a strong foundation, with Bennett scoring 50 off 26 balls and Marumani blasting 62 off just 19 deliveries. The real star, however, was Sikandar Raza, who delivered a blistering century, scoring 133 from just 43 balls, hitting 15 sixes and 7 fours. Clive Madande added a quickfire 53 off 17 balls, pushing Zimbabwe to a record total.
Zimbabwe beats Gambia by 242 runs
Gambia’s bowlers struggled to contain Zimbabwe’s aggressive batting. Andre Jarju managed 2 wickets for 53 runs, while Musa Jobarteh endured a punishing spell, conceding 93 runs in 4 overs.
Chasing 345, Gambia crumbled under the pressure, managing only 54 runs before being bowled out in 14.4 overs. Brandon Mavuta (3/10) and Richard Ngarava (3/19) led the charge for Zimbabwe’s bowlers, while Wessly Madhevere contributed with 2 wickets for just 7 runs.
Zimbabwe’s monumental 246-run victory not only broke the world record for the highest team total but also solidified their dominance in the tournament. Gambia, on the other hand, will need to regroup and focus on improving their performance in the remaining matches.
This record-breaking feat will be remembered as a landmark moment in T20I cricket.
