Karachi: Babar Azam scripted history by becoming the fastest batter to reach 12,000 runs in T20 cricket, surpassing records held by Chris Gayle and Virat Kohli.
The milestone came during his 351st T20 appearance while representing Peshawar Zalmi against Karachi Kings in the ongoing Pakistan Super League.
Fastest to 12,000 T20 runs
Babar reached the landmark in just 338 innings, eclipsing Gayle’s previous record of 343 innings. Kohli follows on the list, having taken 360 innings to achieve the same feat.
The Pakistan skipper needed only 13 runs before the match to enter the elite club and achieved it comfortably in the fourth over of Zalmi’s innings.
Dominant knock powers Zalmi
Opening the innings, Babar delivered a captain’s performance, remaining unbeaten on 87 off 51 balls. His innings included 10 boundaries and two sixes, showcasing his trademark consistency and class.
He stitched a massive 191-run partnership for the second wicket with Kusal Mendis, helping Zalmi post a daunting total of 246/3 in 20 overs.
Karachi Kings collapse
In reply, Karachi Kings crumbled under pressure and were bowled out for just 87 runs.
The bowling unit, led by Iftikhar Ahmed, Shoriful Islam, and Sufiyan Muqeem, dismantled the opposition with three wickets each.
Among Pakistan’s greats
With this achievement, Babar became only the second Pakistani batter to cross the 12,000-run mark in T20 cricket. The record for most T20 runs by a Pakistani still belongs to Shoaib Malik.
A landmark moment
Babar Azam’s latest feat further cements his position among the modern greats of the shortest format. Breaking records previously held by legends like Chris Gayle highlights his remarkable consistency and longevity in T20 cricket.