Babar Azam joins Amla as fastest to 6000 ODI runs

Babar Azam batting average stood at 55.73 – the highest for any batter at that point

Babar Azam has cemented his position as one of the greatest ODI batters of all time, reaching the milestone of 6000 runs in a mere 123 innings. This achievement not only solidifies his reputation as a batting maestro but also propels him to the top of the list of fastest batters to reach this milestone, alongside the illustrious Hashim Amla.

Babar Azam incredible feat was accomplished during the tri-series final against New Zealand in Karachi, where he demonstrated his trademark elegance and precision. By achieving this milestone, Azam has surpassed the record previously held by Virat Kohli, who had reached 6000 runs in 136 innings.

A testament to Azam’s remarkable consistency, he has also become the fastest batter to reach 5000 ODI runs, accomplishing this feat in a staggering 97 innings. Furthermore, he is the second-quickest to reach 4000 ODI runs, achieving this milestone in 81 innings, a mere inning behind Amla’s record.

Babar Azam batting average of 55.73 in ODIs is the highest for any batter upon reaching 6000 runs, surpassing the previous record held by Michael Bevan. This remarkable average is a testament to Azam’s unwavering dedication to his craft and his unrelenting pursuit of excellence.

With 19 ODI centuries to his name, Azam is now the second-highest centurion for Pakistan in the format, trailing only Saeed Anwar’s record of 20 centuries. Moreover, Azam’s 19th ODI ton was achieved in a mere 102 innings, the fewest required by any batter to reach this milestone.

Azam’s impressive record is further underscored by the fact that he is one of only three batters to have scored 6000-plus ODI runs since his debut, alongside Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. His 19 centuries are also the third-most by any batter in this period.

In addition to his impressive individual records, Azam has also achieved the rare feat of scoring a hat-trick of hundreds on two separate occasions in ODI cricket. This remarkable achievement is a testament to his exceptional batting prowess and his ability to perform under pressure.

Since his previous ODI century against Nepal in August 2023, Azam has maintained an impressive average of 37, scoring 666 runs in 21 innings with six fifties. This streak is a testament to his unwavering consistency and his ability to adapt to different conditions and opponents.