In an extraordinary display of power hitting, Samoa’s middle-order batter Darius Visser smashed his way into the history books on Tuesday by setting a new world record for the most runs scored in a single over in T20 International cricket. Visser hammered 39 runs off one over against Vanuatu during the T20 World Cup East Asia-Pacific Region Qualifier, held in Apia, Samoa’s capital.
Visser’s remarkable feat came in the 17th over of the innings, bowled by Vanuatu pacer Nalin Nipiko. The 28-year-old right-hander dispatched six consecutive deliveries over the boundary for sixes, with the over also including three no-balls. Nipiko, one of Vanuatu’s most reliable bowlers, could not contain Visser, who was in a punishing mood.
Visser’s incredible over surpassed the previous T20I record of 36 runs in an over, a feat achieved on five occasions by various players. Notable cricketers such as Stuart Broad (2007), Akila Dananjaya (2021), and more recently, Karim Jannat, Kamran Khan, and Azmatullah Omarzai (all in 2024) had shared the distinction of conceding 36 runs in an over. However, Visser’s 39-run assault has now set a new benchmark.
In only his third T20 International, Visser continued his blistering form, scoring an explosive 132 off just 62 balls. His innings was studded with five boundaries and an astounding 14 sixes, marking his first-ever century in the format. Not only did he become the first Samoan batter to score a century in T20Is, but his innings also single-handedly guided Samoa to a competitive total of 174 all out. His efforts stood out, particularly as the next highest scorer for Samoa was captain Caleb Jasmat, who managed only 16 runs.
Vanuatu’s Response Falls Short
Chasing 175 for victory, Vanuatu fought valiantly but fell just short, ending their innings at 164 for nine, and losing the match by 10 runs. Despite Nipiko’s costly over with the ball, he nearly redeemed himself with an impressive performance at the top of the order. The all-rounder struck a composed 73 off 52 balls, including six fours and three sixes, anchoring Vanuatu’s chase.
More Read
Nipiko received crucial support from skipper Joshua Rasu, who scored 23 off 14 balls, and Tim Cutler, who chipped in with a brisk 21 off 11 balls. However, their efforts were not enough to overcome Samoa’s total, as Vanuatu fell 10 runs short of the target. Samoa’s bowlers held their nerve in the closing overs, managing to take key wickets at crucial moments to seal the win.
A Historic Day for Samoa
Visser’s record-breaking performance has not only put him in the spotlight but has also marked a significant moment in Samoan cricket. As a nation that is relatively new to the international cricket scene, Visser’s heroics will provide a huge boost to Samoa’s profile in the sport. His record-breaking innings and match-winning knock will undoubtedly be remembered as a landmark achievement for both him and his country in the cricketing world.
The victory also keeps Samoa’s hopes alive in the ongoing T20 World Cup East Asia-Pacific Region Qualifier, as they continue their push for qualification in the global tournament.
