Babar Azam: The Pride of Pakistan Cricket

Pakistan’s beautiful right-handed batsman, Babar Azam, is emerging as one of the best modern cricketers. Renowned for his flawless strokes, regularity, and coolheadedness, Babar Azam has become Pakistan’s top batting master.

From 2016 to 2024, he was a major player in international cricket, loved at home and abroad. From his early years in Lahore to guiding Pakistan’s national team across disciplines, Babar’s path is one of diligence, tenacity, and unvarnished brilliance.

Babar Azam’s Mixed Fortunes in the 2025 T20 Tri-Series in Pakistan

In the 2025 T20 Tri-Series hosted by Pakistan (featuring Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka), Babar Azam played a crucial role at different times, delivering a brilliant half-century when needed and also suffering a rare low point early in the tournament.

Key Performances & Turning Points

Strong Batting to Set Up a Big Total vs Zimbabwe
- In the 4th match of the tri-series, Babar Azam scored 74 runs off 52 balls, anchoring Pakistan’s innings. (Business Recorder)
- He put on a strong 103-run partnership with Sahibzada Farhan.
- Thanks to their combined efforts and a late cameo from Fakhar Zaman (27* off 10), Pakistan managed to set a formidable target of 196 runs.
- This total proved crucial as Pakistan eventually won the match by 69 runs. (The Bridge Chronicle)
Tough Start: A Duck Against Zimbabwe
- In the first match of the series (vs Zimbabwe), Babar Azam was dismissed for a duck.
- This marked his 9th duck in T20I cricket, putting him third on the list of most T20I ducks for Pakistan.
- His dismissal was via LBW by Brad Evans, putting early pressure on Pakistan’s batting.
- The failure triggered criticism on social media, with many fans questioning his form.
Record-Equaling Feat
- When Babar scored 74 in that big innings, he also equalled Virat Kohli’s record for the most T20I fifties by a batter from Pakistan. (The Bridge Chronicle)
- That half-century was an essential marker of his value in T20S despite his recent struggles.

What This Means for Babar Azam & Team Pakistan

Consistency Under Pressure
Babar’s 74 during a big chase shows he still has the temperament to bat under pressure and build innings. That’s vital for Pakistan in major tournaments.
T20 Struggles Are Real
The duck highlights that Babar’s T20 form remains a concern. Even top batters can have off days, but frequent dismissals early can hurt the team’s momentum.
Leadership & Experience
As a senior batter, his role isn’t just to score — he guides younger players like Farhan, Ayub, and others. His experience and stability in the middle order remain assets.
Fan and Media Pressure
The social media criticism shows that fans heavily scrutinise his performance. If he doesn’t convert starts into big scores, questions will keep coming.
Tactical Value
His ability to score a big fifty when it matters (vs Zimbabwe) helps Pakistan post challenging totals. Combined with his calm presence, he gives balance to Pakistan’s batting lineup.

Challenges & What’s Next for Him

He needs to work on his strike rate and shot selection in T20Is, especially against tight bowling at the top.
Maintaining mental resilience will be important — not just bouncing back from his duck, but converting more starts into big scores.
He must continue balancing his role: anchoring an innings at times, but also switching gears to score quickly when needed.

Bottom Line:

Babar Azam’s tri-series campaign in 2025 has been a mixed bag. His 74-run knock helped Pakistan set a winning target, proving he’s still capable of match-defining contributions.

But his early failure against Zimbabwe shows that he’s not immune to scrutiny or form swings.

For a team relying on his experience and batting class, Babar’s upcoming performances could be crucial in deciding how far Pakistan goes in this series and beyond.

Babar Azam’s Stunning 20th ODI Century Against Sri Lanka

Babar Azam finally ended his long wait for an ODI hundred by smashing a brilliant century against Sri Lanka, marking his 20th ton in the format.

Update: Century vs Sri Lanka national cricket team

Babar Azam scored a century in the 2nd ODI against Sri Lanka on 14 November 2025 at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.

Key details

He ended a 2-year-plus century drought (last century in August 2023 vs Nepal).
This was his 20th ODI century.
Pakistan was chasing ~289 in that match.
Scorecard: He made 92 runs (in 108 balls) at the point shown on Cricbuzz when Pakistan was 269-2 (45.1 overs) chasing 289.

Significance

With his 20th ODI century, Babar equals former great Saeed Anwar in terms of ODI hundreds for Pakistan.
It ends a long wait and relaunches his form in the 50-over format.
It boosts Pakistan’s chase and gives the team momentum in the series.

Quick recap

Match: 2nd ODI, Pakistan vs. Sri Lanka at Rawalpindi.
Result: Babar led the chase; Pakistan won (since he finished the century while chasing).
For Babar: 20th ODI ton, first after ~807 days without an international hundred.

Record-Breaking Milestone

Babar Azam has etched a significant record in his name: in the second T20 International against the South Africa national cricket team in Lahore on October 31, 2025, he surpassed Rohit Sharma to become the highest run-scorer in men’s T20Is.

He reached 4,234 runs, overtaking Rohit’s 4,231.
This achievement came after his return to T20S following a layoff from the format.

Recent Ups and Downs

Interestingly, in the first match of that series, Babar was dismissed for a duck (zero) after returning to T20S.
Despite that shaky start, he made history in the next game and helped Pakistan level the series.
His selection for the T20 series came after months away from the format and amid speculation.

What It Means Going Forward

This record reinforces Babar’s status as one of Pakistan’s premier batters and a key figure in white-ball cricket.
His comeback to T20S and immediate record suggest he still has a significant role to play, mainly as Pakistan builds toward upcoming events (like the 2026 T20 World Cup).
However, his form is being closely watched. The duck in the first game reminded fans that while records matter, consistency remains vital.

Current Stats Snapshot

According to recent data:

Matches (T20Is): ~130
Runs: 4,234 (as of that milestone) in T20Is.
Half-centuries and centuries: He has recorded multiple 50s and a few 100s in T20Is.
Strike rate and average: While not detailed here, commentators note his strike rate has been a topic of discussion.

Babar Azam: Recent Highlights & Current Form

Ahead of the South Africa Test series, Babar Azam was called into a red-ball training camp at the National Cricket Academy (NCA), underlining Pakistan’s intent to strengthen their batting in the longer format.
His home test form continues to draw criticism: he scored 23 in the first test against South Africa, extending his home dry spell of scores below 50 since 2023.
Off the field, Babar has recently been the subject of public remarks by former cricketer Ramiz Raja, who mocked him on-air, saying, “Yeh drama karega” (“He will create drama”), stirring debate on player-public relations.
Earlier, Pakistan attempted to include Babar in the Asia Cup 2025 squad midway through the tournament after losing to India, but tournament organisers rejected the request under rules governing squad changes.
Babar has also accomplished a significant milestone: he became the first Asian cricketer to surpass 3,000 runs in the ICC World Test Championship.

Babar Azam back in South Africa test series 2025

Early Life and Background

Born in Lahore, Punjab, on October 15, 1994, Mohammad Babar Azam came from a family steeped in cricket. His cousins Kamran, Umar, and Adnan Akmal were already causing a stir in Pakistani cricket.

Inspired by their travels, Babar began his cricketing journey on Lahore’s streets before enrolling in official coaching programs. Beginning with under-15 events, he quickly ascended the ranks in age-group cricket thanks to his batting ability and demeanor.

Domestic Cricket and Rise to Prominence

Babar Azam’s domestic career was instrumental in developing his batting skills. Representing teams such as Zarai Taraqiati Bank Limited and Islamabad Leopards, he demonstrated remarkable consistency.

His performances in domestic tournaments such as the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy and Pakistan Cup made him a standout candidate for national selection.

His record in domestic cricket, particularly in List A matches, reflected a maturity beyond his years. By the time the Pakistan national team drafted him, Babar had already demonstrated his ability to perform under pressure.

Debut internationally and early in career

On May 31, 2015, Babar Azam debuted for Pakistan in One Day International (ODI) against Zimbabwe.

He scored a composed 54, immediately drawing attention to his classical stroke play and maturity at the crease. Soon after, in September 2016, he made his T20 International debut against England.

Still, his performance against the West Indies in 2016 shot him to the top. In a three-match ODI series, Babar Azam scored three consecutive centuries—120, 123, and 117, making him the third batsman in history to achieve this feat.

This landmark performance earned him comparisons with cricketing greats like Virat Kohli and Joe Root.

Debut Test

In October 2016, Babar Azam made his Test debut against West Indies in Dubai.

Although his initial performances in the longer format were modest, his batting steadily improved, eventually making him one of Pakistan’s most reliable Test batters.

His first Test century came against New Zealand in 2018; he has not looked back since then.

Batting Style and Technique

One of Babar Azam’s most admired qualities is his elegant and technically sound batting style. He combines classical technique with modern flair, allowing him to score in all parts of the ground.

His cover drive, in particular, is considered among the finest in world cricket.

Babar is known for his footwork, balance, and shot selection. Whether he plays a seaming delivery on the green tops of England or counters spin in the subcontinent, his adaptability makes him a standout player across formats.

He has been a regular match-winner for Pakistan since he can anchor the innings and accelerate when necessary.

captaincy and command

In 2019, Babar Azam was appointed Pakistan’s T20 captain and later took over the reins in ODIs and Tests.

His leadership came at a crucial time for Pakistan cricket, as it transitioned from the Misbah-Younis era.

Babar Azam was the captain, emphasizing a brave and positive brand of cricket. Under his supervision, Pakistan advanced to the T20 World Cup 2021 semifinal and the T20 World Cup 2022 final.

His calm, collected captaincy style and ability to set an example earned him respect in the locker room and among supporters.

Notable Records and Achievements

Numerous awards and records adorn Babar Azam’s cricketing resume:

ODI Records:

He is the fastest batsman to score 1000 runs in ODIs for Pakistan (21 innings).
He is the second-fastest player in the world to reach 2000 ODI runs (45 innings).
Babar has become the fastest player to reach 5000 ODI runs.
He holds the highest ODI average among Pakistani batters with more than 2000 runs.

Test Records:

The ICC ranked him among the top five Test batters in 2022 and 2023.
He scored a century in England, South Africa, and Australia—a unique accomplishment among subcontinental hitters.

T20 International Records:

The leading run-scorer for Pakistan in T20 Internationals.
He is one of the few players to have achieved several T20 centuries.
Holds the record for most 50+ scores in T20Is for Pakistan.

ICC Rankings and Awards:

The product consistently ranks in the top 3 across all three formats.
ICC Men’s ODI Cricketer of the Year in 2021 and 2022.
Featured in ICC Teams of the Year across multiple formats multiple times.

Comparisons with Modern Greats

Babar Azam is often compared to the “Fab Four” of modern cricket: Virat Kohli, Steve Smith, Joe Root, and Kane Williamson. While these comparisons initially sparked debates, Babar has firmly established himself in the same league.

His consistency across formats, especially in ODIs and T20Is, has made him one of the most feared batters in the world.

Babar has maintained a healthy balance between aggression and stability, unlike many of his contemporaries. His ability to build innings and accelerate at the right moment has made him a complete batsman.

Babar Azam and the Pakistan Super League (PSL)

Babar Azam has starred in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), playing for teams like Karachi Kings and Peshawar Zalmi. In the 2023 edition of the PSL, he emerged as the top run-scorer, scoring over 600 runs at an average exceeding 50.

His performances in the PSL have elevated the league’s profile and made him a crowd favorite. His leadership of Peshawar Zalmi brought a refreshing change, as he groomed young players and maintained a strong on-field presence.

Babar Azam’s Influence on Pakistan Cricket

Azam is more than just a cricketer; he represents a new generation of Pakistani cricket. Babar has provided much-needed steadiness in an era of inconsistent performances and leadership instability. His presence on the team offers psychological advantages for teammates and fans.

Young cricketers in Pakistan look up to him as a role model. He has inspired a wave of emerging talent that now believes in technical correctness, fitness, and discipline — attributes that Babar embodies.

Challenges and Criticism

Like every athlete, Babar Azam has faced criticism, especially regarding his strike rate in T20Is and his captaincy decisions. Critics have questioned his tactical acumen in high-pressure games, particularly during ICC tournaments.

However, Babar has always responded with grace and performance. He is willing to learn and evolve, often accepting constructive feedback and working on his limitations.

Personal Life and Personality

Despite his global fame, Babar Azam remains grounded and humble. Known for his polite demeanor, he maintains a low profile off the field. He is a devout Muslim who often credits his success to hard work and faith.

Babar is also known for his charitable contributions and for his engagement in social causes, particularly in education and youth development in Pakistan.

Babar Azam – Biography, Test & ODI Records

Biography

Full Name: Mohammad Babar Azam
Date of Birth: 15 October 1994
Place of Birth: Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan
Height: 5 ft 11 in (approx.)
Role: Top-order batter
Batting Style: Right-hand batsman
Bowling Style: Right-arm off-break
Family: Cousins—Kamran Akmal, Umar Akmal, Adnan Akmal (all Pakistani international cricketers)

Early Life

Babar Azam grew up in Lahore in a humble household. He spent his childhood around Gaddafi Stadium, where he also worked as a ball boy before joining a professional cricket academy.

His early coach, Rana Sadiq, helped him polish his technique, and soon Babar represented Pakistan in U-15, U-19, and U-19 World Cups, becoming one of the most promising young talents.

International Career

ODI Debut: 31 May 2015 vs Zimbabwe
Test Debut: 13 October 2016 vs West Indies
T20I Debut: 7 September 2016 vs England
Babar became Pakistan’s all-format captain and led the team to the No. 1 ranking in ODIs during his tenure.

He is widely considered one of the best batters of the modern era.

Babar Azam – Test Record

Format	Matches	Runs	Average	100s	Top Score
Test	61+	4,366+ runs	~42.38	9 centuries	196 vs Australia

Highlights

Known for consistency and classical batting technique.
Played one of Pakistan’s greatest fourth-innings knocks: 196 vs. Australia.
Has scored Test centuries in Pakistan, the UAE, New Zealand, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka.

Babar Azam – ODI Record

Format	Matches	Runs	Average	100s	Top Score
ODI	134+	6,466 runs	~54.23	20 centuries	158 vs England

Highlights

One of the fastest players to reach 1,000, 2,000, 3,000, 4,000, and 5,000 ODI runs.
Scored three consecutive ODI centuries twice, a rare world record.
Recently scored his 20th ODI century vs. Sri Lanka (Nov 2025).

Special Achievements

ICC ODI Player of the Year (multiple times).
Former No. 1 ODI batsman for over 950+ days, among the longest reigns.
Holds the record for most runs by a Pakistani in a calendar year.

The only Pakistani captain to take Pakistan to the No. 1 ODI team ranking.

Prospects for the Future:

Babar Azam is at the height of his career in 2025. He is still a major player for Pakistan, even though several ICC events, including the ICC Champions Trophy and the 2026 T20 World Cup, are still to be scheduled. Whether a veteran batter or a captain, his contribution will be crucial in determining Pakistan’s next cricketing glory.

Babar is on course to break several long-standing records given his fitness and hunger for runs.

His consistency and adaptability make him a likely candidate to surpass 10,000 runs in ODIs and 8,000 runs in Tests—milestones only a handful of Pakistani legends have achieved.

Heritage.

Babar Azam’s legacy is still unfolding, although he has already accomplished what many aspire to. He is regarded as one of the best Pakistani batters since the legendary Mohammad Yousuf and Inzamam-ul-Haq. If he continues on this path, Babar could be remembered alongside Imran Khan, Javed Miandad, and Wasim Akram as one of the all-time greats in Pakistan cricket history.