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Pakistan captain Babar Azam has achieved a remarkable milestone by surpassing Indian cricket legends Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to become the highest run-scorer in men’s T20 internationals. This achievement came during the second T20I of Pakistan’s ongoing three-match series, where Babar scored an unbeaten 11 runs off 18 balls.

Although it wasn’t one of his most explosive innings, the knock was significant as it etched his name atop the record books. With this feat, Babar has now accumulated 4,234 runs in 123 innings, overtaking Rohit’s 4,231 runs from 151 innings and Kohli’s 4,188 runs from 117 innings.

Consistency and Class Define Babar’s Journey

What sets Babar Azam apart is his consistency and composure across formats. Averaging 39.57 in T20Is, Babar has been a pillar of Pakistan’s batting order for years. While his average sits below Kohli’s exceptional 48.69, it is notably higher than Rohit Sharma’s 32.05.

His strike rate and adaptability have helped Pakistan anchor several crucial chases and build competitive totals. Cricket experts have often credited Babar’s technique and mental discipline as key elements that make him stand out in high-pressure situations.

Babar’s achievement is not just statistical but symbolic—it underscores his role as the modern-day torchbearer of Pakistan cricket. After facing criticism during phases of inconsistent form, he has silenced doubters by reclaiming the top spot in the record books. His latest milestone reflects years of sustained excellence, showing that he belongs in the same elite bracket as the very best in the world.

End of an Era for India’s T20I Greats

The record also signals a transition in global T20 cricket. Both Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, who once dominated the format, have largely stepped away from regular T20I duties. Kohli finished his T20I career with 4,188 runs at a sublime average, while Rohit, known for his explosive starts, ended close behind. Their absence from the format means that Babar’s record might remain untouched for a considerable time.

Cricket fans across borders have lauded Babar’s achievement, acknowledging how he has carried Pakistan’s batting mantle with grace. As the game continues to evolve with younger power-hitters emerging, Babar’s ability to combine timing, placement, and patience ensures that he remains one of the most reliable batters in modern T20 cricket. His latest feat cements his reputation as not just Pakistan’s batting backbone but one of the finest T20 players in world cricket.

This article first appeared on Cricfit and was syndicated with permission.

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