Greatest T20I Innings: Chris Gayle's 175* and the Record-Holders
The highest individual scores in T20 international cricket — from Chris Gayle's 175* to Aaron Finch's 172* — represent the pinnacle of explosive batting.
Chris Gayle's 175* — The T20I Record
Chris Gayle's 175* against Zimbabwe at the 2016 World T20 in Canberra is the highest individual score in T20 international cricket. Gayle batted for just 66 balls, hitting 16 fours and 14 sixes. West Indies posted 245/6 — the highest T20I total at the time — and won by 73 runs. Gayle's innings came in the World T20 group stage against Zimbabwe, and the breathtaking pace of his scoring (strike rate 265.15) left commentators and opposition stunned.
Other T20I Batting Records
Aaron Finch of Australia holds the second and third highest T20I scores — 172* against Zimbabwe in 2018 and 156 against England in 2013. Hazratullah Zazai (Afghan) scored 162* against Ireland in 2019. Glenn Maxwell has scored several extraordinary T20I innings including a memorable 145* on a difficult pitch. The highest T20I scores tend to come against smaller opposition in grounds with short boundaries.
T20 vs Franchise Cricket Records
T20 International records differ from franchise cricket records. In franchise T20 cricket (including the IPL, BBL, and CPL), players have scored higher due to longer tournament schedules and specific venue conditions. Chris Gayle scored 175* in the IPL for Royal Challengers Bangalore in 2013 — achieved in only 66 balls against Pune Warriors — which remains the highest individual score in IPL history as well.
Frequently asked questions
What is the highest score in T20 International cricket?
Chris Gayle scored 175* for West Indies against Zimbabwe at the 2016 World T20 — the highest individual score in T20I history, achieved in just 66 balls.
What is the highest IPL score?
Chris Gayle also holds the highest IPL score — 175* for Royal Challengers Bangalore against Pune Warriors in 2013, achieved in 66 balls with 17 sixes.