Babar Azam Player Profile

Babar Azam is a top-order, right-handed batsman from Pakistan. Known for his elegance and consistency, he became one of Pakistan’s best players. His rise began in 2016, when he scored three consecutive ODI hundreds against the West Indies. He also scored a 90 in his third Test, in Hamilton, at the age of 22.

Early Life and Cricket Journey

Babar Azam was born in Lahore and is a first cousin to the Akmal brothers. He began his cricket journey at the under-15 World Championship in 2008. He later played two under-19 World Cups in 2010 and 2012, where he was Pakistan’s top run-scorer. “We didn’t have to guide him; he was on his own, but we supported him all the way,” said Kamran Akmal. Azam consistently topped age-group domestic cricket before making his national debut in 2015 during a home ODI series against Zimbabwe.

Babar Azam’s Rise to National Glory

Azam’s hat-trick of consecutive ODI centuries against the West Indies led to his Test debut. As Younis Khan and Misbah-ul-Haq neared the end of their careers, Azam stepped up and solidified his place in the team. He became Pakistan’s best batsman, and today, many consider him one of the country’s best-ever players.

Record-Breaking Achievements in Limited-Overs Cricket

Babar Azam became the second-fastest player to reach 2000 ODI runs and the second-quickest to 1000 T20I runs. He has more ODI centuries than all but two Pakistani batsmen. One of his greatest performances came in a World Cup match against New Zealand, where his century in a crucial game remains a standout moment in Pakistan’s ODI history.

Test Cricket Success

Azam’s Test cricket journey didn’t match the success of his white-ball career early on. However, steady improvements since 2018 have seen him rank among the best Test batsmen. His resilience and consistency have earned him a spot at the top of the Test rankings.

Captaincy and Leadership

Azam’s leadership journey began when he was appointed captain of the T20I and ODI teams in 2019. In 2021, he became Pakistan’s Test captain. Despite the heavy responsibility, Azam has thrived. His leadership has shown signs of modern, progressive thinking, and he continues to learn as he grows into the role. Even under pressure, his batting form has remained unaffected.

Babar Azam’s International Legacy and Future

Babar Azam’s impact on Pakistan cricket is undeniable. His elegant stroke play and consistency across formats have made him one of the world’s top batsmen. As his career progresses, Azam’s influence on Pakistan’s cricketing future will only continue to grow.

Babar Azam IPL Factfile

• Babar Azam has cemented his place as one of Pakistan’s top batsmen, with a series of remarkable performances in domestic and international cricket.
• Azam’s elegant batting and consistency have made him one of the top players in world cricket, regularly ranking among the best ODI and T20 batsmen.
• He has broken several records, including becoming the second-fastest to 2000 ODI runs and the second-fastest to 1000 T20I runs.
• Azam has continued to thrive in the role of captain, leading Pakistan’s cricket team with confidence and skill.

Babar Azam remains one of the most exciting players in world cricket. His remarkable consistency, leadership, and elegance with the bat have solidified his place as one of Pakistan’s cricketing legends.