Star batter writes new chapter in Pakistan cricket’s record books

Babar Azam Reclaims the Crown

Lahore witnessed a moment of cricketing brilliance on Friday as Pakistan’s iconic batter Babar Azam etched his name in the history books once again becoming the highest run-scorer in men’s T20 Internationals, surpassing India’s Rohit Sharma.

The landmark achievement came during the second T20I between Pakistan and South Africa at the Gaddafi Stadium, where the star batter reached the milestone with his trademark calm and class.

The Record-Breaking Moment

Entering the match with 4,223 runs, Babar needed just nine runs to move ahead of Sharma’s 4,231-run mark.
He achieved the feat in vintage style, tucking away a single off South African skipper Donovan Ferreira in the 12th over. Earlier, he thrilled the Lahore crowd with his signature cover drives against Corbin Bosch, reminding fans why he’s regarded among the most elegant batters in world cricket.

With this, Babar now leads the all-time T20I run charts with 4,234 runs in 130 matches, leaving behind Rohit Sharma’s 4,231 runs in 159 innings. India’s Virat Kohli follows with 4,188, while England’s Jos Buttler and Ireland’s Paul Stirling complete the top five.

Consistency and Class Define His Career

The 31-year-old’s T20I career has been a masterclass in consistency and finesse. His record now includes three centuries, 36 fifties, and a solid strike rate of 128.77 all built on textbook technique, patience, and composure.

Analysts and fans alike hailed the achievement as another testament to Babar’s dominance in modern cricket. His ability to adapt and perform under pressure continues to make him a cornerstone of Pakistan’s batting lineup.

Return to Form After a Year’s Break

This milestone carries even greater significance as it marks Babar’s return to T20I cricket after nearly a year.
Following Pakistan’s tour of South Africa in December 2024, selectors rested the former captain to test younger players ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026.

However, after Pakistan’s underwhelming campaign in the 2025 Asia Cup, the selectors turned once more to their most dependable performer. Although Babar began his comeback with a rare duck in the first T20I in Rawalpindi, he quickly bounced back in Lahore not only reclaiming form but also rewriting history.

Pakistan Dominate to Level the Series

Babar’s milestone came in a match that also showcased Pakistan’s collective strength.
The hosts produced a commanding performance, defeating South Africa by nine wickets to level the three-match series 1–1.

Chasing a modest 111-run target, opener Saim Ayub led from the front with a blistering 71 not out, steering Pakistan home in just 14 overs.
In bowling, Faheem Ashraf delivered a fiery spell, taking 4 wickets for 23, while Salman Mirza and Naseem Shah chipped in with crucial breakthroughs.

The emphatic victory sets up an exciting decider between the two sides, with momentum now firmly in Pakistan’s favor.

A New Chapter in Babar’s Legacy

Babar Azam’s latest record isn’t just about numbers it symbolizes resilience, focus, and excellence.
After a turbulent year marked by selection debates and form slumps, his return as the world’s leading T20I run-getter reminds fans and critics alike of his unmatched class.

As fireworks lit up the Lahore sky, chants of “Babar! Babar!” echoed through the stands celebrating not just a record, but a redemption story.