Pakistan’s Babar Azam made history on Friday as he overtook India’s Rohit Sharma to become the highest run-scorer in men’s T20 Internationals. The record-breaking moment came during Pakistan’s commanding nine-wicket victory over South Africa in Lahore.
Babar reached the milestone with a precise drive off spinner Donovan Ferreira to long-off, ending the innings unbeaten on 11. His tally now stands at 4,234 runs in 130 matches, including three centuries and 36 fifties. He achieved the feat at a strike rate of 129, cementing his status as one of the format’s most consistent performers.
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The star batter had narrowly missed the record in the opening match in Rawalpindi, where he was dismissed for a two-ball duck. Recalled to the T20I squad after nearly a year, Babar replaced Fakhar Zaman, who was rested for the series.
Rohit Sharma, the previous record holder, retired from T20Is last year after leading India to the T20 World Cup title. He finished with 4,231 runs in 159 games, setting a high standard that Babar has now surpassed.
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Cricket fans across the world celebrated Babar’s achievement, calling it a proud moment for Pakistan cricket. With age on his side and a strong run of form, experts believe Babar could extend his lead for years to come.