Pakistan’s star batsman Babar Azam has once again etched his name in the history books of cricket, surpassing India’s Rohit Sharma to become the leading run-scorer in men’s T20 International (T20I). The milestone came after Babar equalized to lead Pakistan to a nine-wicket win over South Africa in the second T20I at the Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore. three match series 1-1.
Babar Azam surpasses Rohit Sharma’s T20I milestone
Babar, returning to T20I action after almost a year, needed just nine runs to overtake Rohit’s 4,231 T20I runs. The 30-year-old achieved the feat in characteristically composed style, completing the historic feat with a single off the bowling of Donovan Ferreira.
Babar remained unbeaten on 11 and has scored 4,234 runs in 130 matches in his career at an impressive average of almost 40. His record includes 36 half-centuries and three centuries, highlighting his consistency and class in the shortest format.
Rohit Sharma, who retired from T20Is after India’s victory in the 2024 T20 World Cup, held the record for many years by scoring 151 runs in 2024 innings. He is now second in the all-time list, followed by Virat Kohli (4,188 runs), Jos Buttler (3,869) and Paul Stirling (3,710).
Pakistan bowlers dominate South Africa
Before Babar’s record-breaking moment, Pakistan’s bowlers produced a brilliant performance to bowl out South Africa for just 110 runs in 19.2 overs to register a win. Faheem Ashraf took an impressive 4 wickets, while Salman Mirza took three wickets, taking advantage of the seam-friendly conditions under lights.
South Africa struggled to find rhythm and kept losing wickets at regular intervals. Their top order faltered against tight bowling and the middle order failed to build partnerships. It was a night to forget for the visitors, who could not match Pakistan’s energy and accuracy with the ball.
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While Babar grabbed the headlines with his milestone, Sam Ayub produced an exceptional batting performance with the bat. This young opening batsman, who came under scrutiny after his poor performance in the Asia Cup, silenced the critics by scoring an unbeaten 71 runs in 38 balls.
Ayub’s innings was a mix of aggression and confidence, comprising six fours and five sky-scraping sixes. With Babar, he pursued Pakistan, Made the team win in just 13.1 overs,
Pakistan level T20I series 1-1 with impressive win over South Africa#PAKvSA : https://t.co/tLMb6VePyK pic.twitter.com/iNpSeuaQca
– ICC (@ICC) 31 October 2025
The series is now tied at 1-1, with the decider to be played at the same venue on November 1.
