The T20 World Cup is famous for its electrifying performances and nail-biting thrillers. But among the glittering displays of batting skill, there have also been dramatic collapses where teams have crumbled under pressure. Let’s dive into some of these notorious moments, including a recent shocker from the 2024 tournament in New York.
A Walk Down Memory Lane: The Top 8 Lowest Totals
- Netherlands 39 vs Sri Lanka (Chattogram, March 24, 2014)
- On a tough day in Chattogram, the Netherlands were skittled out for just 39 runs in 10.3 overs. Angelo Mathews and Ajantha Mendis each claimed three wickets. Sri Lanka easily chased down the target, reaching 40 without loss in just 5 overs. This remains the lowest score in T20 World Cup history.
- Netherlands 44 vs Sri Lanka (Sharjah, October 22, 2021)
- History repeated itself for the Netherlands in Sharjah, where they were bowled out for 44 in 10 overs. Lahiru Kumara and Wanindu Hasaranga took three wickets each. Sri Lanka once again had an easy chase, reaching 45/2 in 7.1 overs, reinforcing their dominance over the Dutch.
- West Indies 55 vs England (Dubai, October 23, 2021)
- The usually formidable West Indian batting lineup collapsed for just 55 runs in 14.2 overs, with Adil Rashid taking four wickets. England, despite a shaky start, comfortably chased the target, finishing at 56/4 in 8.2 overs.
- Uganda 58 vs Afghanistan (Guyana, June 4, 2024)
- Uganda’s T20 World Cup 2024 campaign started disastrously, being bowled out for 58 against Afghanistan. Chasing a formidable 184, Uganda never found their footing as Fazalhaq Farooqi’s five-wicket haul dismantled their batting order.
- New Zealand 60 vs Sri Lanka (Chattogram, March 31, 2014)
- After bowling out Sri Lanka for 119, New Zealand were expected to chase the target easily. However, they crumbled to 60 all out in 15.3 overs, with Rangana Herath taking five wickets in a stunning bowling performance.
- Scotland 60 vs Afghanistan (Sharjah, October 25, 2021)
- Afghanistan posted a massive 190/4, and their bowlers then routed Scotland for 60 in just 10.2 overs. Mujeeb Ur Rahman took five wickets, while Rashid Khan added four more to complete the demolition.
- Ireland 68 vs West Indies (Providence, April 30, 2010)
- Chasing a modest target of 139, Ireland were bowled out for 68 by a disciplined West Indies bowling attack. Daren Sammy and Ravi Rampaul were instrumental, leading the hosts to a 70-run victory.
- Hong Kong 69 vs Nepal (Chattogram, March 16, 2014)
- Chasing 150 set by Nepal, Hong Kong could only manage 69 in 17 overs. Basant Regmi and Shakti Gauchan took three wickets each, showcasing Nepal’s disciplined bowling effort.
Sri Lanka’s Dismal Start in 2024
In their opening game of the T20 World Cup 2024, Sri Lanka stumbled to their lowest-ever total of 77 against South Africa. Choosing to bat first, the decision quickly turned disastrous as only three batsmen managed to reach double figures. This collapse was a stark contrast to the high-octane scoring typically associated with T20 cricket.
These matches remind us of the unpredictability of cricket, where fortunes can change in just a few overs. The T20 World Cup continues to be a stage where not only the highest scores but also the lowest, become part of cricketing history.
What do you think was the most surprising low total in T20 World Cup history, and why?
