What does it mean to break a record in the world of sports? For Laura Cardoso, the young Brazilian cricketer, it means etching her name into the annals of T20 international cricket history. On April 9, 2026, in Gaborone, Botswana, Cardoso achieved an extraordinary feat by taking nine wickets in a single innings against Lesotho, surpassing all previous records in both men’s and women’s T20 internationals.
Cardoso’s remarkable performance saw her record bowling figures of 9-4 in just three overs, leading to Lesotho being bowled out for a mere 13 runs while chasing a daunting target of 203 runs set by Brazil. This match not only showcased her exceptional talent but also highlighted the growing competitiveness of women’s cricket on the international stage.
At just 21 years old, Cardoso has already made a significant impact in the sport. Her nine wickets in this match are a testament to her skill and determination, as she achieved a hat-trick with the last three deliveries of her first over and took five wickets in a row during the match. This performance has set a new benchmark for cricketers around the world and has drawn attention to her potential for future success.
Before Cardoso’s achievement, the record for the most wickets taken in a T20 international was held by Rohmalia Rohmalia, who had taken seven wickets. In the men’s category, the record was held by Sonam Yeshey, who took eight wickets for seven runs. Cardoso’s accomplishment of nine wickets not only broke these long-standing records but also solidified her status as a rising star in the cricketing world.
Brazil’s total score of 202-8 in the match against Lesotho was a strong foundation that allowed Cardoso to showcase her bowling prowess. With a total of 55 wickets in 48 T20 matches for Brazil, she has proven to be a vital asset to her team. Her performance at the Kalahari Women’s T20 tournament has also contributed to Brazil remaining unbeaten in five matches, further emphasizing her role in the team’s success.
Roberta Moretti, a prominent figure in Brazilian cricket, expressed her belief in Cardoso’s potential, stating, “I don’t think this is the end. She’s still only 21 and I believe Laura is someone who can one day play at the elite level in England and Australia.” Moretti’s sentiments reflect the excitement surrounding Cardoso’s future in cricket, as her work ethic and passion for the game continue to shine through.
As the cricketing community celebrates Cardoso’s historic achievement, it also looks forward to what lies ahead for this talented young player. With her record-breaking performance, she has not only made history but has also inspired a new generation of cricketers in Brazil and beyond. The world will be watching closely as Cardoso continues her journey in the sport, eager to see how she builds on this remarkable milestone.
