Babar Azam Inches Closer to T20I Milestone Against Australia
Pakistan’s star opener Babar Azam showcased his batting prowess during the third and final T20I against Australia, scoring a steady 41-run knock. Although the innings lacked acceleration post-powerplay, it was enough for Babar to surpass Virat Kohli on the list of all-time leading run-scorers in T20Is. He now sits second on the list, trailing only India’s T20I captain Rohit Sharma.
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Babar Azam’s Record-Breaking Journey
With this knock, Babar’s tally reached 4,192 runs from 126 T20I matches, averaging an impressive 40.30 with three centuries and 36 fifties. The current record holder, Rohit Sharma, leads with 4,231 runs in 159 matches, while Kohli is now in third place with 4,188 runs from 125 matches at a stellar average of 48.69.
Despite his solid performance, Babar’s inability to accelerate in the middle overs drew criticism. His 28-ball innings, adorned with four boundaries, was cut short by Adam Zampa, marking the third time the Australian leg-spinner dismissed him in T20Is.
Key Stats: Top T20I Run-Scorers
- Rohit Sharma (India): 4,231 runs in 159 matches
- Babar Azam (Pakistan): 4,192 runs in 126 matches
- Virat Kohli (India): 4,188 runs in 125 matches
- Paul Stirling (Ireland): 3,655 runs in 124 matches
- Jos Buttler (England): 3,389 runs in 117 matches
Babar’s Milestone Awaiting in 2025
With no immediate T20I fixtures for Babar due to rest during the Zimbabwe tour, his next opportunity to surpass Rohit Sharma is expected during Pakistan’s New Zealand tour in March 2025, after the ICC Champions Trophy. He needs just 40 runs to become the all-time leading T20I run-scorer.
Current Batters Behind Babar
Among active cricketers, Babar is leagues ahead in T20I runs. Ireland’s Paul Stirling and England’s Jos Buttler are his closest competitors, with 3,655 runs and 3,389 runs, respectively.
Pakistan’s Changes in Playing XI
For the dead rubber match against Australia, Pakistan made significant changes to the playing XI:
- Mohammad Rizwan was rested, allowing Agha Salman to debut as T20I captain.
- Youngster Jahandad Khan made his T20I debut, replacing Naseem Shah, who managed just one wicket in the series.
Babar Azam’s Legacy
Babar Azam continues to solidify his legacy as one of the finest T20I batters. His consistent performances and leadership have not only elevated Pakistan cricket but also brought him into the conversation alongside modern legends like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.
As cricket fans eagerly await his return to T20Is in 2025, the stage is set for Babar to rewrite history and claim the top spot in T20I run-scoring charts.