Baroda Sets New T20 Record with 349/5 Against Sikkim
Additionally, Baroda accumulated 294 runs in boundaries, another unparalleled feat. This match also marked the first time a team crossed the 300-run mark in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT).
Multiple Records Shattered
Baroda’s record-breaking performance didn’t stop at the highest team total. They smashed 37 sixes in their innings, eclipsing Zimbabwe's previous record of 27 sixes from the same match against Gambia. Additionally, Baroda accumulated 294 runs in boundaries, another unparalleled feat. This match also marked the first time a team crossed the 300-run mark in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT).
Bhanu Pania Leads the Charge
The backbone of Baroda’s innings was No. 3 batter Bhanu Pania, who remained unbeaten on a blistering 134 off just 51 deliveries, smashing 15 sixes in the process. Openers Shashwat Rawat (43 off 17) and Abhimanyu Singh Rajput (53 off 17) laid a fiery foundation, while middle-order batters Shivalik Sharma (55 off 17) and Vishnu Solanki (50 off 16) carried the momentum forward, leaving Sikkim’s bowlers helpless against the relentless assault.
Sikkim Crumbles Under Pressure
Chasing an improbable target, Sikkim faltered early, limping to 19 for 3 during the PowerPlay. By the halfway mark, they were struggling at 36 for 4. Baroda skipper Krunal Pandya, who wasn’t required with the bat, delivered a stellar bowling spell, conceding just eight runs in his four overs, including two maidens, and picking up one wicket. Spinners Ninad Rathva and Mahesh Pithya bagged two wickets each, as Sikkim managed only 86 for 7 in their 20 overs, suffering a massive 263-run defeat – one of the largest margins in T20 history.
Other SMAT Highlights
Abhishek Sharma’s Blazing Century Powers Punjab
In Rajkot, Punjab captain Abhishek Sharma delivered a breathtaking performance to chase down Meghalaya’s 142 for 7 in just 9.4 overs. Sharma’s unbeaten 106 off 29 balls, featuring eight fours and 11 sixes, tied the record for the fastest T20 century by an Indian, matching Urvil Patel’s 28-ball feat.
Before his batting fireworks, Sharma also contributed with the ball, taking 2 for 24 with his left-arm spin. Ramandeep Singh picked up two wickets, while Punjab’s bowlers restricted Meghalaya to a modest total. Sharma’s blistering innings ensured a dominant victory for Punjab in the first half of their chase.
Delhi’s Bowlers Shine in a Quick Finish
In Mumbai, Delhi showcased their bowling prowess, with pacer Aayush Singh leading the charge. Singh claimed a four-wicket haul and bowled a maiden over to bundle out Arunachal Pradesh for just 89 runs.
In reply, Delhi’s batters made quick work of the chase. Yash Dhull (35* off 16) and Priyansh Arya (54* off 21) finished the job in just 6.1 overs, securing a resounding 10-wicket victory.
