Zimbabwe made history by scoring the highest total ever in men’s T20I cricket, amassing 344/4 against Gambia in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Sub-Regional Africa Qualifier Group B. The stunning innings, led by Sikandar Raza, broke Nepal’s previous record of 314/3, set in 2023 against Mongolia. Raza’s incredible knock of 133* from just 43 balls was the highlight, as Zimbabwe registered the biggest win in T20Is by runs.
Sikandar Raza’s Record-Breaking Century
Raza’s performance was nothing short of extraordinary. He scored his century in just 33 balls, equaling the record for the second-fastest T20I century by a batter from a Test-playing nation. His innings included 15 sixes and 9 boundaries, overpowering Gambia’s bowling attack. Raza’s aggressive play came after Tadiwanashe Marumani’s fiery 62 off 19 balls, setting the tone for the massive total.
Dominant Performance by Zimbabwean Batters
Zimbabwe’s top-order ensured a brisk start, with Marumani scoring 62 from just 19 deliveries. Contributions from Brian Bennett (50 off 26) and Clive Madande (53* off 17) maintained the momentum, making it difficult for Gambia to control the run flow. This consistent batting allowed Zimbabwe to set multiple records during their innings, including the highest number of boundaries in a T20I match.
Gambia Struggles Under Pressure
Gambia’s bowling unit struggled throughout the innings, with Musa Jorbateh conceding 93 runs in his 4-over spell, marking the most expensive bowling figures in T20I history. Gambia, the smallest country in continental Africa, found it challenging to handle Zimbabwe’s onslaught and is still looking for its first win in the qualifiers.
Top 5 Highest Men’s T20I Totals
| Team | Score | Opponent | Year |
| Zimbabwe | 344/4 | Gambia | 2024 |
| Nepal | 314/3 | Mongolia | 2023 |
| India | 297/6 | Bangladesh | 2024 |
| Zimbabwe | 286/5 | Seychelles | 2024 |
| Afghanistan | 278/3 | Ireland | 2019 |
Zimbabwe’s Winning Streak in Qualifiers
With this win, Zimbabwe continues its perfect run in the African Sub-Regional qualifier, aiming for a spot in the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, scheduled to be held in India. This victory showcases Zimbabwe’s dominance and highlights the importance of strong starts and powerful middle-order performances.
Zimbabwe Highest T20I Total Summary:
- Record Score: Zimbabwe set a new record for the highest T20I total, scoring 344/4 against Gambia.
- Raza’s Fast Century: Sikandar Raza hit 133* off 43 balls, with his century coming in just 33 deliveries.
- Historic Sixes: Raza’s innings included 15 sixes, setting a new record for Zimbabwe in T20Is.
- Dominating Start: Tadiwanashe Marumani and Brian Bennett set the stage for a big total with fast fifties.
- Struggles for Gambia: Gambia’s bowlers conceded runs heavily, with Musa Jorbateh going for 93 in his 4 overs.
- Table of Records: A list of the top 5 highest men’s T20I totals.
Zimbabwe’s Journey: Zimbabwe remains unbeaten in the Africa qualifier, strengthening their chances for the 2026 T20 World Cup.
Read – Zimbabwe’s Highest T20I Score Details at ICC.
Also Read Latest Current Affairs 2024
The highest score in men’s T20I cricket is 344/4, achieved by Zimbabwe against Gambia in 2024.
Sikandar Raza’s 33-ball century is the second-fastest in T20I history by a player from a Test-playing nation.
Sikandar Raza hit 15 sixes during his record-breaking innings against Gambia.
Nepal held the previous record with 314/3 against Mongolia in 2023.
Zimbabwe has won all their matches in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Sub-Regional Africa Qualifier Group B so far.
Musa Jorbateh conceded the most runs in a T20I, with 93 runs in 4 overs, highlighting Zimbabwe’s dominance
The 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup will be hosted in India.
