Zimbabwe vs Gambia T20 Highlights ICC Mens T20 World Cup Sub Regional Africa Qualifier | Zimbabwe 344/4 - Sikandar Raza 133

Courtesy: Fancode

Zimbabwe delivered a stunning performance against Gambia, clinching a mammoth 290-run victory in the 12th match of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup Sub-Regional Africa Qualifier Group B. This commanding win set several records and kept Zimbabwe's World Cup qualification hopes alive.

Zimbabwe’s Batting Blitz

After winning the toss and opting to bat, Zimbabwe posted a jaw-dropping 344/4 in their 20 overs, one of the highest totals in T20 history. Captain Sikandar Raza led the charge with a blistering 133* off just 43 balls, striking 15 sixes and three fours at an incredible strike rate of 309.30. Raza's innings was supported by half-centuries from Brian Bennett (50 off 26) and Tadiwanashe Marumani (62 off 19), both contributing to the carnage early on. Dion Myers also added an explosive 25-ball 125, continuing the relentless attack on Gambia's bowlers.

Despite Gambia's efforts, their bowling attack was overwhelmed. Andre Jarju claimed two wickets, but with the run-rate soaring, they struggled to contain the onslaught. Zimbabwe's aggressive batting resulted in a record score for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup Africa Qualifier.

Gambia Crumble in Response

Chasing an improbable 345, Gambia collapsed to 54 all out in just 14.4 overs. Zimbabwe's bowlers, led by Richard Ngarava (3/13) and Wessly Madhevere (2/17), quickly dismantled Gambia’s batting order. Captain Ismaila Tamba (5 off 11) and wicketkeeper Muhammed Manga (0) were among the early casualties, as Gambia struggled against the disciplined bowling attack. Brandon Mavuta also played a key role, taking 3/10, while Ryan Burl picked up a wicket to cap off a flawless all-round performance from Zimbabwe.

Records Broken

• Highest team total in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup Africa Qualifiers (344/4 in 20 overs).
• Sikandar Raza's 133* is one of the highest individual scores in T20 internationals.
• Zimbabwe's 290-run margin of victory is one of the largest winning margins in T20 history.

With this dominant performance, Zimbabwe solidified their top spot in Group B, showcasing their strength as one of the tournament favorites.

Brief Scores:
Zimbabwe: 344/4 in 20 overs (Sikandar Raza 133*, Tadiwanashe Marumani 62, Brian Bennett 50; Andre Jarju 2/53)
Gambia: 54 all out in 14.4 overs (Arjunsingh Rajpurohit 7, Frank Campbell 7; Richard Ngarava 3/13, Brandon Mavuta 3/10)

Result: Zimbabwe won by 290 runs
Player of the Match: Sikandar Raza