Introduction
Babar Azam. The name alone brings elegance, class, and a textbook-perfect cover drive to mind. But there’s more to him than flair — Babar is a record-breaking machine. His calm and composed style stands out in an era dominated by T20s and power-hitters. So, how has this Pakistani gem carved out his space among cricketing greats? Let’s break down Babar Azam’s batting records and why they’ve shaken the cricket world.
Early Career and Rise to Fame
Domestic Performances
Before he became a global star, Babar was already making noise in Pakistan’s domestic scene. His consistent performances in U-19 and first-class cricket quickly earned him attention.
Breakthrough in International Cricket
He debuted in ODIs in 2015, and by 2016, he was the talk of the town, especially after scoring three consecutive hundreds against the West Indies. His elegant strokeplay instantly reminded many of legends like Inzamam and Yousuf.
Consistency from the Beginning
Unlike most young batters, Babar hit the ground running and didn’t stop. He started stacking up 50s and 100s, making consistency his signature.
ODI Batting Records
Fastest to 1000, 2000, 4000 ODI Runs
Babar reached:
- 1000 ODI runs in just 21 innings (joint-fastest for Pakistan),
- 2000 in 45 innings,
- Four thousand in just eighty-two innings—one of the fastest ever.
Most Pakistani ODI Centuries in a Calendar Year
In 2022, he smashed 7 centuries in ODIs — the most by a Pakistani in a single year, proving his unmatched dominance.
Captaincy and Batting Consistency
Even after becoming captain, his batting form didn’t dip. His average stayed above 50 — a rare feat for a player burdened with leadership.
Test Batting Records
Key Test Centuries
Babar has demonstrated his Test mettle from a spectacular 196 against Australia to hundreds in the abrasive conditions of England and Sri Lanka.
Notable Innings Under Pressure
Under immense pressure, a Pakistani captain hailed his match-saving 196 against Australia in Karachi (2022) as one of the most excellent innings.
Babar’s Batting Average in Test Cricket
His Test average consistently hovers around 45+, impressive in today’s bowler-friendly conditions.
T20I Batting Records
Leading T20I Run-Scorer for Pakistan
Babar has surpassed even the explosive Shoaib Malik and Mohammad Hafeez to become Pakistan’s top T20I run scorer.
Highest Partnerships with Rizwan
The Babar-Rizwan duo has redefined T20 opening partnerships. They have more than 100 partnerships in T20Is, which is a record.
Consistency in Strike Rate and Averages
Babar combines a solid average of 40+ with a strike rate close to 130 — a rare blend in T20 cricket.
Babar Azam in Franchise Leagues
Pakistan Super League (PSL) Records
- Most runs in PSL history
- Multiple Player of the Tournament awards
- Only centurion for two franchises
CPL, BBL & Other T20 Leagues
Though not a regular in leagues like IPL or BBL, Babar has made his presence felt with brief but impactful stints.
Influence on the Global T20 Scene
His classic style has shown the world that timing and placement can still rule over brute force.
Comparison with Modern Greats
Babar vs Virat Kohli
This comparison is inevitable. While Kohli may have the experience, Babar has matched him stroke for stroke in terms of averages and consistency.
Babar vs Joe Root, Williamson, Smith
Babar’s average in all formats puts him in the mix with the “Fab 4.” Some even suggest we’re looking at a “Fab 5” now.
Style, Technique, and Composure
While others play flamboyantly, Babar plays gracefully. His ability to remain composed under duress reminds many of Rahul Dravid.
Records as Captain
Win Percentage with the Bat
Under his captaincy, Pakistan has had one of the highest win rates in T20Is.
Leadership Impact on Personal Performance
Captains often struggle with form, but Babar has continued breaking records even with the captaincy hat on.
ICC Rankings as Captain
He topped the ICC rankings in ODIs and T20Is simultaneously — a rare double!
Awards and Recognitions
ICC Awards
- ICC ODI Player of the Year (2021, 2022)
- ICC Men’s Cricketer of the Year (2022)
National Honors
Awarded Sitara-e-Imtiaz in 2023, Pakistan’s third-highest civilian award.
Media and Fan Appreciation
From memes to murals, Babar’s fanbase spans continents.
Babar’s Batting Technique
Cover Drive Masterclass
Babar’s cover drive is a terror, as any bowler can tell you. It’s textbook perfect, yet impossible to stop.
Shot Selection and Game Awareness
Rarely does Babar throw away his wicket. His game awareness is one of the sharpest in world cricket.
Fitness and Longevity
His disciplined lifestyle and fitness hint at a long and healthy career ahead.
Key Stats Summary
Career Runs (All Formats)
As of mid-2025:
- ODIs: 5720+
- Tests: 4100+
- T20Is: 3900+
- Total: 13,700+ international runs
Hundreds and Fifties Breakdown
- 29 International Hundreds
- 75+ Fifties across formats
Strike Rates and Averages Over Time
Consistently maintaining:
- ODI Avg: 58+
- Test Avg: 47+
- T20I Avg: 41+
Babar Azam’s Impact on Pakistani Cricket
Role Model for Young Players
Many aspiring cricketers in Pakistan now mimic his style, seeing him as a modern icon.
Reviving Pakistan’s Batting Lineup
Before Babar, Pakistan lacked a solid top-order bat for years. Now, he’s the anchor every team fears.
Inspiring Confidence in Big Matches
His performances in World Cups and Asia Cups have restored faith among fans.
Criticism and Comebacks
Dealing with Media Pressure
Babar has faced unfair comparisons and criticism but always lets his bat do the talking.
Form Slumps and Bouncebacks
Like every Player, he’s had dips. But his bouncebacks are legendary — often responding with centuries.
Responding to Critics with the Bat
Whether it’s a dropped IPL bid or online trolling, Babar responds best on the pitch.
Future Potential and Projections
Can Babar Break More World Records?
Absolutely. With his form, he could break:
- Fastest to 8000 ODI runs
- Most T20I runs ever
Likely Milestones by 2030
- 20,000+ International Runs
- 50+ International Hundreds
- Captaincy records to boot
Legacy in the Making
Babar is already a legend in the making. The world is just catching up.
Conclusion
Babar Azam brings grace, class, and calm in a cricketing world chasing sixes and speed. His batting records aren’t just numbers — they tell a story of resilience, consistency, and pure talent. As he continues to build his legacy, one thing’s clear: we’re watching a modern legend unfold before our eyes.
FAQs
1. What is Babar Azam’s highest score in international cricket?
His highest score yet was 196 in a 2022 Test match against Australia in Karachi.
2. How many centuries does Babar Azam have?
In every event, he has scored more than 29 international hundreds.
3. Is Babar Azam in the ICC Top 10 Rankings?
He consistently ranks in the Top 5 for ODIs and T20Is.
4. What makes Babar’s cover drive so special?
His timing, technique, and elegant follow-through make it a fan favourite.
5. Will Babar Azam ever play in the IPL?
It’s unclear due to political tensions, but fans across borders would love to see it.