Pakistan’s prolific batter Babar Azam has written another golden chapter in cricket history. During the second T20 International against South Africa at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, Babar overtook India’s Rohit Sharma to become the highest run-scorer in men’s T20Is.
The milestone arrived in the 12th over of Pakistan’s innings when Babar calmly worked a single off South African skipper Donovan Ferreira toward long-off. That run placed him at 4,232 career runs, edging past Rohit Sharma’s 4,231.
A Record-Breaking Moment
Babar began the match needing just nine runs to claim the record. He started confidently, piercing the off-side with his classic cover drive for a boundary against Corbin Bosch. His steady approach reflected a player determined to return to form and silence critics.
Despite scoring only modestly in the early overs as partner Saim Ayub dominated the bowling, Babar’s focus never wavered. When the record-breaking run finally came, the Gaddafi Stadium crowd erupted in celebration.
Men’s T20I Run Leaders (as of October 2025)
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Babar Azam – 4,232 runs in 130 matches*
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Rohit Sharma – 4,231 runs in 159 matches
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Virat Kohli – 4,188 runs in 125 matches
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Jos Buttler – 3,869 runs in 144 matches
(*Record still active)
Babar’s achievement is not just statistical—it represents resilience and consistency across formats. His elegant stroke play, composure, and leadership have long made him one of Pakistan’s most reliable performers.
A Triumphant Return to T20Is
The ongoing home series against South Africa marks Babar Azam’s comeback to Pakistan’s T20 squad. The right-hander had been left out following a disappointing away series against the same opponents in December 2024.
After Pakistan’s underwhelming campaign in the ACC Men’s T20 Asia Cup 2025, selectors decided to recall Babar to restore stability to the batting order. His return, however, started on a rough note—he was dismissed for a duck in the first T20I at Rawalpindi.
But true to his reputation, Babar bounced back immediately. His record-breaking innings in the second match reinforced his value as a world-class batter capable of anchoring and accelerating innings when required.
Symbol of Pakistan’s Cricketing Strength
Babar’s latest milestone places him back at the top of the T20I charts, reaffirming his status as one of modern cricket’s finest batsmen. His consistency, elegance, and mental strength have made him a role model for Pakistan’s younger generation of cricketers.
The achievement also symbolizes a new chapter for Pakistan cricket as the team rebuilds after recent setbacks. With Babar’s return to form, fans are hopeful for stronger performances in upcoming international fixtures.
A Defining Moment in Modern T20I Cricket
This milestone goes beyond rivalry between Pakistan and India—it highlights a global shift in T20 cricket’s leadership. Babar Azam now stands ahead of some of the game’s greatest names, proving once again why he is counted among the best.
His ability to combine classical technique with modern aggression has made him a cornerstone of Pakistan’s batting unit. For Babar, surpassing Rohit Sharma is more than just a number—it’s a statement of persistence, class, and unwavering belief.
