Babar Azam Breaks Rohit Sharma's World Record to Become Highest Run-Scorer in T20Is, Despite Slow Innings

Pakistan’s star batsman Babar Azam has reclaimed the spotlight by setting a remarkable world record in T20 cricket, even though his batting form has been far from impressive in recent months. Returning to Pakistan’s T20 side after a long gap, Babar surpassed former Indian captain Rohit Sharma to become the highest run-scorer in T20 Internationals.

The record-breaking moment came during the second T20I between Pakistan and South Africa, held at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on October 31. After dismissing South Africa for just 110 runs, Pakistan had a comfortable chase ahead. Opening pair Saim Ayub and Fakhar Zaman gave the team a quick start with a 54-run stand, after which Babar Azam walked in at number three—a shift from his usual opening position before being dropped from the squad.

Babar began cautiously, hitting a four off his first delivery. With his 9th run, he overtook Rohit Sharma’s tally of 4231 runs, becoming the leading run-scorer in T20I history. Babar achieved this feat in his 130th T20 International, solidifying his place as one of the format’s most consistent players.

However, the manner in which he reached the milestone was far from T20 style. Babar’s innings resembled a Test match effort—he scored an unbeaten 11 runs off 18 balls. While his approach drew criticism, the milestone itself was historic. When he came to the crease, Pakistan needed just 57 runs to win, which they eventually did comfortably.

Pakistan’s bowlers dominated the match, led by Faheem Ashraf, who picked up four wickets, while Salman Mirza added three to his name. In reply, Pakistan chased down the target in 13.1 overs, thanks to a blistering 71 off 38 balls by Saim Ayub, featuring six fours and five sixes. The emphatic win helped Pakistan level the three-match series 1-1.