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Pakistan’s skipper and batting maestro Babar Azam has silenced critics with a solid knock of 73 off 95 balls in the second ODI against South Africa on December 19. Now, Babar stands on the brink of cricketing history, needing just 95 runs to become the fastest player ever to score 6,000 runs in ODI cricket.
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Chasing Amla’s Historic Feat
The record for the fastest to 6,000 ODI runs is currently held by South Africa’s Hashim Amla, who achieved the milestone in 123 innings. Babar, having played 119 innings, has three innings left to surpass Amla and claim the record.
Fastest Players to 6,000 ODI Runs
| Rank | Player | Team | Innings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hashim Amla | South Africa | 123 |
| 2 | Virat Kohli | India | 136 |
| 3 | Kane Williamson | New Zealand | 139 |
| 4 | David Warner | Australia | 139 |
| 5 | Shikhar Dhawan | India | 140 |
Babar is poised to break this record and further cement his place among cricket’s greats.
On The Verge of Another Milestone
Babar Azam has already amassed 19 ODI centuries in his career. He is just one century away from equaling Saeed Anwar’s record of 20 centuries, making him Pakistan’s all-time leading ODI century scorer.
However, questions about Babar’s recent form have been swirling. His last ODI century came against Nepal during the Asia Cup 2023, and he has since been unable to reach the three-figure mark. His crucial knock in the second ODI against South Africa signals a return to form just when his team needs him the most.
A Record-Breaking Knock in the Second ODI
In the second ODI, Babar’s 73 off 95 balls not only helped Pakistan secure a convincing 81-run victory but also allowed him to surpass MS Dhoni’s record for the most ODI half-centuries against SENA countries (South Africa, England, New Zealand, and Australia).
- MS Dhoni: 38 half-centuries
- Babar Azam: 39 half-centuries
Pakistan’s Dominant Tour So Far
Pakistan has been outstanding on their tour of South Africa. After splitting the T20I series 1-1, the team has secured an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match ODI series. The final ODI is set to take place on December 22 in Johannesburg, where Babar will have another shot at making history.
With records within touching distance and form on his side, all eyes will be on Babar Azam as he continues his march toward greatness.
