Pakistan’s ODI captain Babar Azam is on the cusp of a major milestone, poised to become the fastest player to reach 6,000 runs in One-Day International (ODI) cricket. With 119 innings under his belt, Babar is just 37 runs away from surpassing South Africa’s Hashim Amla, who achieved the 6,000-run mark in 123 innings. If Babar reaches the target in the upcoming third ODI against South Africa on December 22, he will break Amla’s record and surpass Virat Kohli, who reached 6,000 runs in 136 innings.
Babar’s recent performance in the second ODI on December 19 against South Africa saw him score a crucial 73 runs from 95 balls, helping Pakistan secure an 81-run victory and win the series. This was a significant return to form for the top-ranked ODI batsman, as it was his first half-century in the format since the 2023 World Cup.
Also Read: Babar Azam Breaks MS Dhoni’s Record for Most Fifty-Plus Scores Against SENA Nations
Additionally, Babar surpassed MS Dhoni’s record for most half-centuries (39) against the “SENA” countries—South Africa, England, New Zealand, and Australia—previously held by Dhoni with 38.
With 19 ODI centuries to his name, Babar is also closing in on another prestigious record: the most ODI centuries by a Pakistani cricketer. He is just one century away from equaling Saeed Anwar’s record of 20 ODI centuries.
Despite some criticism for a lack of centuries in recent matches, Babar remains focused as he leads Pakistan into the third ODI, not only with a series sweep in mind but also with the potential to further solidify his legacy as one of the modern greats in cricket.
All eyes will be on Babar Azam as he chases history in the final ODI of the series.
