Pakistan batter Babar Azam has claimed a major milestone in men’s T20I cricket by overtaking Indian superstars Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to emerge as the leading run scorer in the format. Babar, who recently returned to Pakistan’s T20I squad, made a cautious but crucial unbeaten 11 runs off 18 balls during the second match of the three-game series against South Africa. This small contribution was enough to push him past Rohit Sharma’s tally.
The former Pakistan captain now holds 4234 runs from 123 innings in the shortest international format. Rohit Sharma previously led the list with 4231 runs in 151 innings, while Virat Kohli ended his T20I career with 4188 runs across 117 innings. Although Babar maintains a stronger average than Rohit, Virat’s numbers remain unmatched in terms of consistency. However, Rohit registers the best strike rate among the trio.
Babar reached the landmark with a single off Donovan Ferreira as Pakistan comfortably chased down a 111-run target, securing a nine-wicket victory with 41 balls remaining. His return to the squad followed criticism over his absence during the Asia Cup, where Pakistan lost the final to India. Team management reinstated him as they prepare for the upcoming T20 World Cup scheduled in India and Sri Lanka next year.
With Rohit and Virat stepping away from T20Is after India’s 2024 World Cup triumph, Babar’s lead is expected to grow. England’s Jos Buttler appears to be the closest active threat, with 3869 runs across 132 innings.
Pakistan’s dominant performance also helped them level the ongoing series 1-1, setting up a competitive decider in Lahore. Faheem Ashraf shone with the ball, claiming four wickets, while opener Saim Ayub’s unbeaten 71 ensured a comfortable chase.