What does it mean for cricket when a player takes nine wickets in a single T20 international match? For Laura Cardoso, it means making history. On April 9, 2026, in Gaborone, Botswana, Cardoso achieved this remarkable feat against Lesotho, recording bowling figures of 9-4 in just three overs.
Lesotho struggled to chase Brazil’s imposing target of 203 runs, ultimately bowled out for a mere 13 runs in 6.2 overs. Cardoso’s performance not only led her team to victory but also set a new benchmark in T20 internationals, surpassing the previous best of seven wickets held by Rohmalia Rohmalia in women’s cricket and eight wickets by Sonam Yeshey in men’s cricket.
At just 21 years old, Cardoso’s achievement is a testament to her talent and potential. She began her spell dramatically, claiming a hat-trick with the last three deliveries of her first over, immediately putting pressure on the Lesotho side. Her five wickets in a row further solidified her dominance in the match.
With this performance, Cardoso has now taken 55 wickets in 48 T20 matches for Brazil, showcasing her consistency and skill on the international stage. Roberta Moretti, a prominent figure in Brazilian cricket, expressed her belief in Cardoso’s future, 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.”
Brazil’s total score of 202-8 was a solid foundation for their victory, and the team remains unbeaten in five matches at the Kalahari Women’s T20 tournament. Cardoso’s record-breaking performance has not only drawn attention to her individual skills but also highlighted the growing competitiveness of women’s cricket in Brazil.
As the cricketing world takes note of this historic achievement, the question remains: what will Laura Cardoso do next? With her work ethic and passion for the game, many are eager to see how she will continue to develop her career.
Cardoso’s achievement broke long-standing records in T20I cricket, and her remarkable journey is just beginning. Her spell began dramatically when she picked up a hat-trick early in the innings, immediately putting Lesotho under pressure. Details remain unconfirmed on how this performance will impact her future, but one thing is clear: Laura Cardoso is a name to watch in the world of cricket.
