Baroda produced a historic performance in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) 2024, registering the highest-ever total in T20 cricket by amassing an extraordinary 349/5 against Sikkim at the Emerald High School Ground in Indore. Their blistering batting display shattered several records, leaving the cricketing world in awe.
A Ruthless Batting Performance
Baroda’s top-order batters made the most of the small boundaries, demolishing Sikkim’s bowling attack with an unparalleled onslaught. The team maintained an astonishing strike rate of over 17 throughout their innings, crossing key milestones with ease — 100 in the powerplay, 200 by the 11th over, and 300 in the 18th.
Bhanu Pania Steals the Show
Bhanu Pania was the star performer, smashing an unbeaten 134 off just 51 balls. His explosive knock featured 15 sixes, making him the backbone of Baroda’s record-setting innings. Pania’s partnerships with other aggressive batters ensured the team capitalized on their fiery start.
Supporting Fireworks
Abhimanyusingh Rajput, Shivalik Sharma, and Vishnu Solanki all contributed rapid half-centuries, each maintaining a strike rate above 300. Their aggressive approach left Sikkim’s bowlers helpless and added to Baroda’s dominance.
Records Tumble in Indore
Baroda’s colossal 349/5 broke several records:
- Highest Total in SMAT History: They surpassed Punjab’s 275 against Andhra in 2023.
- Highest Men’s T20 Total Globally: They eclipsed Zimbabwe’s 344 against Gambia, set just last month.
- Most Sixes in an Innings: Baroda smashed 37 sixes, nearly one every three deliveries, setting a new benchmark for six-hitting.
- Highest T20 Total on Indian Soil: Baroda’s total surpassed the Indian team’s 297 against Bangladesh earlier this year.
Historic Yet Missed Milestone
Baroda became only the third team in men’s T20 cricket to cross the 300-run mark, joining Zimbabwe and Nepal. However, they narrowly missed setting a new record for the first-ever 350+ total in a T20 match, a target once deemed remarkable even in ODIs.
Achieving Glory Without Pandya Brothers
Remarkably, Baroda achieved this milestone without star players Hardik Pandya, who missed the match, and Krunal Pandya, who did not bat. This highlights the depth and strength of Baroda’s batting lineup, which rose to the occasion in spectacular fashion.
A Historic Day for Indian Cricket
Baroda’s performance in Indore has set a new benchmark in T20 cricket, showcasing the thrilling potential of the shortest format. Their record-breaking innings will be remembered as a landmark moment in SMAT history.
