Zimbabwe’s cricket team stormed to a record-breaking T20 total, posting a staggering 344-4 in their 20 overs during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Sub Regional Africa Qualifier Group B, 2024. The highlight of the innings was a scintillating century from captain Sikandar Raza, who smashed 133 off just 43 balls, propelling Zimbabwe to their highest-ever T20 international score.
Zimbabwe’s innings was a fireworks display from the outset. Wicketkeeper Tadiwanashe Marumani laid the foundation with a blistering 62 from 19 balls, including nine boundaries and four sixes, at a strike rate of 326.32.
His opening partnership with Brian Bennett, who contributed a rapid 50 from 26 deliveries, put Zimbabwe in control early. Despite losing wickets at regular intervals, Zimbabwe’s aggressive approach never faltered.
Sikandar Raza’s captaincy led by example, as he launched a brutal assault on Gambia’s bowlers. Raza’s 133-run innings featured seven boundaries and an incredible 15 sixes, at a strike rate of 309.30.
His dominance in the middle overs was pivotal, as he added 141 runs in a match-defining partnership with Clive Madande, who also played a vital role with 53 off 17 balls.
Gambia’s bowlers were left powerless against the onslaught, with Musa Jobarteh bearing the brunt, conceding 93 runs in his four overs without taking a wicket.
Andre Jarju and Abubacarr Kuyateh picked up wickets, but their efforts were not enough to stem the Zimbabwean tide. Zimbabwe’s astonishing run rate of 17.2 per over showcased their intent to dominate.
Raza’s performance was one of the finest seen in international T20 cricket, combining power hitting with strategic shot placement. His ability to clear the ropes at will kept the scoreboard ticking, and his leadership inspired Zimbabwe to push for a monumental total.
With this victory, Zimbabwe reaffirmed their status as a formidable side in the qualifying stages, and their record-breaking score will certainly send a message to future opponents in thetournament.
