Babar Azam breaks Rohit Sharma’s T20I record as Pakistan thrash South Africa

Pakistan’s star batter Babar Azam has once again etched his name in cricket’s history books, surpassing India’s Rohit Sharma to become the highest run-scorer in men’s T20 Internationals (T20Is). The milestone came as Babar guided Pakistan to a nine-wicket victory over South Africa in the second T20I at the Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, levelling the three-match series 1-1.

Babar Azam surpasses Rohit Sharma’s T20I milestone

Babar, returning to T20I action after nearly a year, entered the match needing just nine runs to overtake Rohit’s tally of 4,231 T20I runs. The 30-year-old accomplished the feat in typical calm fashion, nudging a single off Donovan Ferreira to reach the landmark.

Babar finished unbeaten on 11, taking his career total to 4,234 runs from 130 matches at an impressive average of nearly 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 following India’s triumph in the 2024 T20 World Cup, held the record for several years, amassing his runs in 151 innings. He now sits second on the all-time list, followed by Virat Kohli (4,188 runs), Jos Buttler (3,869) and Paul Stirling (3,710).

Pakistan’s bowlers dominate South Africa

Before Babar’s record-breaking moment, Pakistan’s bowlers set up the win with a clinical display that dismantled South Africa for just 110 runs in 19.2 overs. Faheem Ashraf starred with a brilliant 4-wicket haul, while Salman Mirza chipped in with three wickets, exploiting the seam-friendly conditions under lights.

South Africa struggled to find any rhythm, losing wickets at regular intervals. Their top order faltered against tight bowling lines, and the middle order failed to build partnerships. It was a night to forget for the visitors, who could not counter Pakistan’s energy and precision with the ball.

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While Babar made headlines with his milestone, it was Saim Ayub who delivered the standout batting performance with the bat. The young opener, under scrutiny after a poor Asia Cup campaign where he registered four ducks, silenced critics with a scintillating unbeaten 71 off 38 balls.

Ayub’s innings was a blend of aggression and confidence, featuring six fours and five towering sixes. Alongside Babar, he anchored Pakistan’s chase, taking the team to victory in just 13.1 overs.

Pakistan make it 1-1 in the T20I series with a convincing win over South Africa 👏#PAKvSA 📝: https://t.co/tLMb6VePyK pic.twitter.com/iNpSeuaQca

— ICC (@ICC) October 31, 2025

With the series now tied 1-1, the decider will be played at the same venue on November 1.

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