Cricket has witnessed some thrilling moments over the years—record-breaking chases, last-ball finishes, and power-hitting celebrations. But sometimes, the shortest format of the game produces surprises that leave fans in doubt. One such shocker is when a team collapses for the lowest score in T20 history, setting an unwanted record.
This article explores the lowest team scores in T20 Internationals, including the lowest total ever recorded in a T20 World Cup. We’ll also highlight examples where teams successfully defended low scores and examine how even top cricketing nations like India have experienced shocking batting collapses.
The Lowest Score in T20 History—A Record No Team Wants
Cricket fans usually expect high scores in T20 matches, but some teams have struggled and scored very low. The lowest score in T20 history is held by Ivory Coast, who were out for just 7 runs against Nigeria on November 24, 2024, in Lagos.
The entire team failed to handle the bowling attack, and their innings ended in just a few overs. This remains the lowest total ever recorded in T20 internationals.
List of Top 10 Lowest in T20 International Scores
| Team | Score | Opposition | Venue | Match Date |
| Ivory Coast | 7 | Nigeria | Lagos | 24 Nov 2024 |
| Mongolia | 10 | Singapore | Bangi | 5 Sep 2024 |
| Isle of Man | 10 | Spain | Cartagena | 26 Feb 2023 |
| Mongolia | 12 | Japan | Sano | 8 May 2024 |
| Mongolia | 17 | Hong Kong | Kuala Lumpur | 31 Aug 2024 |
| Mali | 18 | Tanzania | Dar-es-Salaam | 21 Sep 2024 |
| Ivory Coast | 21 | Sierra Leone | Lagos | 23 Nov 2024 |
| Turkey | 21 | Czech Republic | Ilfov County | 30 Aug 2019 |
| China | 23 | Malaysia | Kuala Lumpur | 26 Jul 2023 |
| Mali | 24 | Ghana | Dar-es-Salaam | 26 Sep 2024 |
India’s Lowest Score in T20 History
Even top cricketing nations have struggled with the bat at times. India’s lowest score in T20 history is 74 runs, which came against Australia in 2008 at Melbourne. Facing a top-quality speed attack, India’s batting lineup powdered under pressure.
This remains a rare incident, as India is usually known for its strong T20 performances, but it serves as a reminder that even the best teams can have off days.
The Lowest Score in T20 World Cup
A T20 World Cup match is one of the biggest stages in cricket, and scoring too low can be humiliating for any team. The record for the lowest score in the T20 World Cup history belongs to the Netherlands, who were bowled out for 39 runs against Sri Lanka in 2014.
Sri Lanka’s bowlers dominated the game, bundling out the Netherlands team in just 10.3 overs, making it one of the most one-sided matches in T20 World Cup history.
What Causes Such Low Scores in T20 Matches?
While T20 cricket is known for big hits and high scores, some conditions can lead to shocking collapses:
- Pitch Conditions—Some pitches assist bowlers so much that batters struggle to score.
- Swing and Seam Movement—In places like England or South Africa, the ball moves a lot, making it hard for batters to settle.
- Top-Order Collapse— A few quick wickets can cause panic, leading to more batters falling cheaply.
- Poor Shot Selection—T20 cricket demands aggressive batting, but reckless shots can lead to a batting collapse.
- Quality Bowling Attack—Some teams have world-class bowlers who can destroy an opposition lineup in a few overs.
Final Thoughts
The lowest score in T20 history is a record no team wants, but cricket is unpredictable. Even strong teams have collapsed under pressure, showing that T20 is not just about power-hitting—it also requires skill, patience, and adaptability.
From the lowest T20 score to the top 10 lowest score in t20, every record has its own story of struggle and learning. Some teams have even turned the tables by defending small totals, proving that cricket is always full of surprises.
With T20 cricket evolving rapidly, who knows which team might set a new record—hopefully for the right reasons! For the latest news, match analyses, player insights, and exclusive updates on cricket and the IPL, visit our website, Spin and Swing, and stay ahead of the game!
FAQs
What is the lowest score in T20 history?
The lowest score in T20 history is 7 runs by Ivory Coast against Nigeria on November 24, 2024.
Which team has the lowest score in the T20 World Cup?
Netherlands holds the record for the lowest score in T20 World Cup, scoring 39 runs against Sri Lanka in 2014.
What is India’s lowest score in T20 cricket?
India’s lowest score in T20 cricket is 74 runs against Australia in 2008 at Melbourne.
Which teams hold the record for the lowest scores in the T20 Internationals?
Ivory Coast, Mongolia, Isle of Man, Mali, and China are among the teams with the lowest scores in T20 history.
Which teams have failed to cross 25 runs in T20 cricket?
Ivory Coast and Isle of Man have recorded men’s T20 International scores below 25 runs.
