Pakistan’s cricket star Babar Azam etched his name into the record books during the first Test against South Africa in Centurion, becoming only the third cricketer to surpass 4,000 runs in all three formats of international cricket. This remarkable feat places him alongside Indian legends Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Despite this historic milestone, Babar’s return to the Test squad was bittersweet as he managed only four runs before being dismissed, contributing little to Pakistan’s shaky innings.
Babar’s Incredible Career Stats
Babar Azam’s latest achievement adds to his illustrious career. In Test cricket, he has scored 4,001 runs from 56 matches, averaging 43.49, with nine centuries and 26 fifties. His ODI record is even more impressive, boasting 5,957 runs in 123 matches at an average of 56.73, including 19 centuries and 34 fifties. In T20Is, Babar has accumulated 4,223 runs in 128 matches, averaging 39.84, with three centuries and 36 fifties. These statistics solidify his reputation as one of the most consistent performers in modern cricket.
A Tough Start for Pakistan
Babar’s early dismissal added to Pakistan’s woes, as the team struggled to find stability. At one point, they were reeling at 56/4 after Saud Shakeel also departed cheaply. However, Kamran Ghulam and Mohammad Rizwan stepped up, building a crucial partnership to rescue the innings. Ghulam adopted an aggressive approach, maintaining a strike rate above 100, while Rizwan played a more measured game, ensuring the scoreboard kept ticking.
Significance of the Achievement
Babar’s milestone is a testament to his skill, consistency, and determination. Joining the ranks of Kohli and Sharma, he underscores his status as a modern great. As Pakistan looks to recover in the ongoing Test, Babar’s historic achievement will remain a bright spot in their cricketing narrative.
