Finch fires 172 to break his own world record for T20 highest individual score

Australia’s Aaron Finch broke his own world record for the highest individual score in a Twenty20 international but fell agonisingly short of the highest-ever innings in the format.

Batting against Zimbabwe in Harare, the explosive opener passed the 156 he made against England in 2013, and had Chris Gayle’s 175 in his sights, but was out for 172.

Gayle’s score was made for Royal Challengers Bangalore in the Indian Premier League five years ago, against a Pune Warriors side captained by Finch.

That mark looked set be eclipsed in the history books on Tuesday as Finch reached 172 with two balls of the innings left.

However, in bizarre circumstances he over-balanced chasing a wide delivery from Blessing Muzarabani and hit his own wicket.

Finch’s overall score came off 76 balls and comprised 16 fours and 10 maximums.

Remarkably, in a final total of 229 for two, Zimbabwe bowler Tendai Chisoro conceded just 19 runs from his four overs.

Australia’s score was the 16th highest in T20I history.

They hold three of the top five totals, including the world record of 263 for three, made against Sri Lanka in 2016.

Quoted on Cricinfo, Finch said of his display: “Feeling good. The wicket played better than we thought.

“It came on well. I knew about the records when I was batting, but a few things went my way today. I took the strike from Short a bit, but that kind of innings for him will also help him.

“When the wickets get slower and lower, that kind of innings will help.

“I was captain of the opposition when Gayle got 175, so I remembered that record as well! The wicket is very good, so we have to bowl well too.”