The dynamic nature of T20 cricket has often produced explosive starts, with teams looking to maximize power overs and put pressure on the opposition. Over the years, some teams have pushed the boundaries of what can be achieved in the first six overs, setting new benchmarks for Powerplay scores. From calculated risks to outright aggression, these innings have defined some of the most memorable moments in T20I cricket. Recently, Australia recorded a breathtaking record in the first T20I against Scotland.
Australia sets a new standard
In the competition which took place at the Grange Cricket Club in Edinburgh, Australia held a masterclass in powerplay batting. After Scotland posted a competitive total of 154/9 in their 20 overs, the visitors chased it down in just 9.4 overs, finishing on 156/3.
Aussie stars Travis Head was the standout performer, smashing a brilliant knock of 80 runs off just 25 balls, including 12 fours and 5 sixes. Australia’s aggression in the powerplay was unmatched as they scored an incredible 113 runs in the first six overs, setting a new record for the highest Powerplay score in T20I cricket. That explosive start laid the foundation for a comfortable victory and highlighted Australia’s dominance in the shortest format of the game.
ALSO READ: Highest power total in T20I history: Travis Head guides Australia to quick win over Scotland in series opener
7 Highest Powerplay Scores in T20Is
1) Australia (113 runs v Scotland, 2024): Australia’s explosive start against Scotland set a new record for the highest Powerplay score in T20Is, with aggressive batting propelling them to a formidable total in just six overs. Koka was the star of the show as he scored 73 off 22 balls during the power play.
2) South Africa (102 runs v West Indies, 2023): South Africa’s dominant batting performance against the West Indies underlined their ability to control the powerplay, producing a high-scoring start that set the tone for the entire innings. Quinton de Kock was instrumental in this explosive display, smashing 64 off just 24 balls during the powerplay.
3) West Indies (98 runs v Sri Lanka, 2021): West Indies’ powerful batting display against Sri Lanka highlighted their aggressive style of cricket as they relentlessly found the boundary to post a huge powerplay score. Kieron Pollard was instrumental in the effort, blasting 38 runs from just 10 balls, including six back-to-back sixes in a single over by Akila Dananjaya.
4) Ireland (93 runs v West Indies, 2020): Ireland wowed many with their aggressive approach against the West Indies, putting together a high-scoring power play that laid a strong foundation for the rest of the match. In the first T20I, the Irish team scored 93 runs in the first six overs, with Paul Stirling spearheads the attack, smashing 67 balls off just 25 balls during the power play.
5) West Indies (92 runs v Afghanistan, 2024): In the 40th match of the T20 World Cup 2024, West Indies put up an impressive performance against Afghanistan. Catching the loose deliveries with aggressive batting, the Caribbean side amassed 92 runs in the first six overs, with Nicholas Pooran smashing 36 off 13 balls and Johnson Charles adding 35 off 19 balls during the explosive start.
6) Australia (91 runs v New Zealand, 2018): Australia’s commanding start against New Zealand in the fifth T20I of the 2018 Trans-Tasman series highlighted their aggressive approach, resulting in a strong powerplay score against high-quality opposition. D’Arcy Short led the attack with a 38 off 20 balls, while David Warner contributed to a Quickfire 39 off just 16 deliveries during the Powerplay.
7) Netherlands (91 runs v Ireland, 2021): In the T20 World Cup 2014 Group B match between Ireland and Netherlands, the Dutch team made history with their performance. They amassed 91/1 in the first 6 overs, taking complete control of the match. Stephan Myburgh was instrumental, blasting 57 off 21 balls, including 4 fours and 6 sixes.
