From Rohit Sharma to Babar Azam, here's a look at the top five batters with most runs in T20 Internationals. This list also includes Virat Kohli, Jos Buttler and Paul Stirling

From Rohit Sharma to Babar Azam, here's a look at the top five batters with most runs in T20 Internationals. This list also includes Virat Kohli, Jos Buttler and Paul Stirling

Meet top 5 batters with most runs in T20Is

Former Pakistan captain Babar Azam has said goodbye to his Sydney Sixers family in the Big Bash League (BBL) ahead of the team’s crucial Challenger final against Hobart Hurricanes on Friday (Jan 23) to link up with the Pakistan Team for a national team camp. The Sixers announced Babar’s exit almost a day before their knockout home game at the SCG, with the winner of that final to take on Perth Scorchers in the BBL final in Perth on Sunday (Jan 25).&nbsp;Initially meant to be available for the full BBL 15 season, Babar was not picked in the Pakistan squad for the home three-match T20I series against Australia starting January 29 in Lahore.&nbsp; &nbsp;Meanwhile, the Australian players picked for the away tour, also involved in the BBL, will remain in the competition till their respective teams are competing before joining the rest of the squad in the UAE.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bangladesh-cricket-2026-t20-world-cup-bcb-hoping-for-last-minute-miracle-from-icc-1769060386759">BCB hoping for last-minute ‘miracle’ from ICC as Bangladesh’s T20 WC fate stays in limbo</a> &nbsp;"The Sydney Sixers have today been informed that Sixers opener Babar Azam is required to return to Pakistan to join his national teammates in camp, as preparations commence for upcoming international matches," an official statement read. "As a result, Babar will depart Australia immediately and will not be available for selection for the remainder of the BBL|15 Finals Series." &nbsp;The Sixers manager, Rachael Haynes, also confirmed that they initially planned to have Babar play the whole tournament.&nbsp; &nbsp;"The Sydney Sixers are sincerely grateful for the opportunity to have had Babar represent the club during his time in Australia," Haynes said in a statement. "While we had initially planned for Babar to be available throughout the Finals, he has been an immensely valued member of our group, and we fully understand that the commencement of Pakistan's national camp means preparations are now underway for upcoming matches."

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Thank you, Babar 👑 Babar Azam has been recalled to join Pakistan’s national camp ahead of upcoming international fixtures. He will be unavailable for the remainder of the BBL|15 Finals Series. More info at <a href="https://t.co/XFOTpJiF9I">https://t.co/XFOTpJiF9I</a> 📲 <a href="https://t.co/EOaLKZlLG0">pic.twitter.com/EOaLKZlLG0</a>&mdash; Sydney Sixers (@SixersBBL) <a href="https://twitter.com/SixersBBL/status/2014201620368912726?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 22, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Meanwhile, Babar endured a challenging time on his maiden BBL tour, scoring a mere 202 runs from 11 games, averaging just above 22 and striking at 103.6. Although he hit two fifties this time, Babar departed on a second-ball duck against Perth in the Qualifier.&nbsp; &nbsp;Taking to his social media handle, Babar penned a heartfelt note for his BBL teammate, saying, "First of all, thank you so much Sydney Sixers for having me, all the boys, all the coaches and I have very (sic) enjoyed my time," Babar said in a statement.&nbsp;"Unfortunately, I will now have to leave the team to go to the national duty. &nbsp;"I have a lot of things I have to take back home- a lot of fun, a lot of positive things, so I have enjoyed it a lot. &nbsp;"Especially, thank you to the Sydney Sixers fans, there is always support there, a lot of support, a lot of encourage (sic), a lot of fun, so I have very enjoyed that vibe at Sydney Cricket Ground, so thank you so much."

Babar endured a challenging time on his maiden BBL tour, scoring a mere 202 runs from 11 games, averaging just above 22 and striking at 103.6.

Former Pakistan captain Babar Azam has said goodbye to his Sydney Sixers family in the Big Bash League (BBL) ahead of the team’s crucial Challenger final against Hobart Hurricanes on Friday (Jan 23) to link up with the Pakistan Team for a national team camp. The Sixers announced Babar’s exit almost a day before their knockout home game at the SCG, with the winner of that final to take on Perth Scorchers in the BBL final in Perth on Sunday (Jan 25). Initially meant to be available for the full BBL 15 season, Babar was not picked in the Pakistan squad for the home three-match T20I series against Australia starting January 29 in Lahore. Meanwhile, the Australian players picked for the away tour, also involved in the BBL, will remain in the competition till their respective teams are competing before joining the rest of the squad in the UAE. Also read | BCB hoping for last-minute ‘miracle’ from ICC as Bangladesh’s T20 WC fate stays in limbo "The Sydney Sixers have today been informed that Sixers opener Babar Azam is required to return to Pakistan to join his national teammates in camp, as preparations commence for upcoming international matches," an official statement read. "As a result, Babar will depart Australia immediately and will not be available for selection for the remainder of the BBL|15 Finals Series." The Sixers manager, Rachael Haynes, also confirmed that they initially planned to have Babar play the whole tournament. "The Sydney Sixers are sincerely grateful for the opportunity to have had Babar represent the club during his time in Australia," Haynes said in a statement. "While we had initially planned for Babar to be available throughout the Finals, he has been an immensely valued member of our group, and we fully understand that the commencement of Pakistan's national camp means preparations are now underway for upcoming matches."

Babar endured a challenging time on his maiden BBL tour, scoring a mere 202 runs from 11 games, averaging just above 22 and striking at 103.6.

Babar Azam cuts short BBL 15 tenure with Sixers to link up with Pakistan for team camp

The best batters know no format, no boundaries; they just know how to score anywhere. In the early days of T20 cricket, a few mastered this art. Let’s check out the players quickest to 6000 T20 runs.

The best batters know no format, no boundaries; they just know how to score anywhere. In the early days of T20 cricket, a few mastered this art. Let’s check out the players quickest to 6000 T20 runs.

Meet 5 Players fastest to 6000 T20 Runs; only one Indian on the list

Several superstars, current and former, made this list, including the ‘Universe Boss’. As players worldwide continue to stack up their T20 runs, let’s check who was the quickest to 10,000 runs in this format.

Several superstars, current and former, made this list, including the ‘Universe Boss’. As players worldwide continue to stack up their T20 runs, let’s check who was the quickest to 10,000 runs in this format.

Meet 5 Players fastest to 10,000 T20 Runs

From Hashim Amla to Viv Richards, here's a look at the top five players fastest to 5000 runs in One Day Internationals. This list also includes Babar Azam, Virat Kohli and Shai Hope

From Hashim Amla to Viv Richards, here's a look at the top five players fastest to 5000 runs in One Day Internationals. This list also includes Babar Azam, Virat Kohli and Shai Hope

Meet top 5 batters fastest to 5,000 ODI runs

From Babar Azam to Hashim Amla, here's a look at the top five batters fastest to 3000 runs in ODIs. This list also includes Shai Hope, Fakhar Zaman and Imam-ul-Haq

From Babar Azam to Hashim Amla, here's a look at the top five batters fastest to 3000 runs in ODIs. This list also includes Shai Hope, Fakhar Zaman and Imam-ul-Haq

Meet top 5 batters fastest to 3000 runs in ODIs, surprisingly no Indian on the list

One-Day Cricket in 2025 is over, and let’s take a look at players who made the most appearances in this format this year. No Indian made it to the list, but check who did.

One-Day Cricket in 2025 is over, and let’s take a look at players who made the most appearances in this format this year. No Indian made it to the list, but check who did.

Who has Played Most ODI Matches in 2025? No Indian, check full list

From Joe Root to Hashim Amla, here's a look at the top five players fastest to 4000 ODI runs. This list also includes Babar Azam, Viv Richards and Shai Hope

From Joe Root to Hashim Amla, here's a look at the top five players fastest to 4000 ODI runs. This list also includes Babar Azam, Viv Richards and Shai Hope

From Joe Root to Hashim Amla, 5 players fastest to 4000 ODI runs

Pakistan's T20I skipper Salman Ali Agha has more or less confirmed the participation of Babar Azam in the upcoming 2026 T20 World Cup scheduled to be played from Feb 7 in India and Sri Lanka. Pakistan, however, will be playing all their matches in Sri Lanka, given the current unstable political situation with India. The 2009 edition winners, however, have been in decent form recently including winning the home tri series against Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe. Agha, speaking on a recent Pakistan Cricket Board podcast, said that there won't be much changes in the squad which has played recently.<h2>Agha on Pakistan squad for 2026 T20 World Cup</h2>“I don’t think there will be any major changes before the World Cup; this will be the combination. All players have been given their roles, and we will move forward with these roles,” Salman said. “Six matches are left before the T20 World Cup, we will have to play with consistency. We cannot make big changes in these six matches." Apart from Babar, pacer Naseem Shah could also get a ticket to Colombo after being handed a comeback in the T20I side.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bangladesh-all-rounder-shakib-admits-to-chucking-intentionally-1765185834054">Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib admits to chucking intentionally</a><h2>Pakistan in T20 World Cup 2026</h2>The Asian team is placed in Group A along with arch rivals India, Netherlands, Namibia, the United States of America. Pakistan start their campaign against Netherlands on February 7 and take the USA in the next match on Feb 10. The high-octane match against India is scheduled for Feb 15 before they take on Namibia on Feb 18 in the last group stage match."I want us to win the 2026 T20 World Cup and then the 2027 ODI World Cup. Winning both World Cups is my dream; if it happens, I will be very happy," Salman said on his expectations from the side in the tournament.

The Asian team is placed in Group A along with arch rivals India, Netherlands, Namibia, the United States of America. Pakistan start their campaign against Netherlands on February 7 and take the USA in the next match on Feb 10. The high-octane match against India is scheduled for Feb 15 before they take on Namibia on Feb 18 in the last group stage match.

Pakistan's T20I skipper Salman Ali Agha has more or less confirmed the participation of Babar Azam in the upcoming 2026 T20 World Cup scheduled to be played from Feb 7 in India and Sri Lanka. Pakistan, however, will be playing all their matches in Sri Lanka, given the current unstable political situation with India. The 2009 edition winners, however, have been in decent form recently including winning the home tri series against Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe. Agha, speaking on a recent Pakistan Cricket Board podcast, said that there won't be much changes in the squad which has played recently. Agha on Pakistan squad for 2026 T20 World Cup “I don’t think there will be any major changes before the World Cup; this will be the combination. All players have been given their roles, and we will move forward with these roles,” Salman said. “Six matches are left before the T20 World Cup, we will have to play with consistency. We cannot make big changes in these six matches." Apart from Babar, pacer Naseem Shah could also get a ticket to Colombo after being handed a comeback in the T20I side. Also Read - Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib admits to chucking intentionally Pakistan in T20 World Cup 2026 The Asian team is placed in Group A along with arch rivals India, Netherlands, Namibia, the United States of America. Pakistan start their campaign against Netherlands on February 7 and take the USA in the next match on Feb 10. The high-octane match against India is scheduled for Feb 15 before they take on Namibia on Feb 18 in the last group stage match. "I want us to win the 2026 T20 World Cup and then the 2027 ODI World Cup. Winning both World Cups is my dream; if it happens, I will be very happy," Salman said on his expectations from the side in the tournament.

The Asian team is placed in Group A along with arch rivals India, Netherlands, Namibia, the United States of America. Pakistan start their campaign against Netherlands on February 7 and take the USA in the next match on Feb 10. The high-octane match against India is scheduled for Feb 15 before they take on Namibia on Feb 18 in the last group stage match.

Pakistan skipper Salman Agha shares update on Babar Azam's chances to play in 2026 T20 World Cup

Pakistan batter Babar Azam had a horrible outing against Zimbabwe in the first match of the tri-series which also involves Sri Lanka. The match played at Rawalpindi saw Pakistan winning by five wickets but Babar was out on a duck during the chase. to add to his woes, the ICC has fined Babar for hitting the stumps in anger before leaving the field during recently-played third ODI of the three-match series against Sri Lanka. The Pakistan batter was not only fined monetarily but also handed a demerit point for his conduct unbecoming of player as per the ICC rules.<h2>Babar fined and handed demerit point by ICC</h2>The incident happened on November 16 in the 21st over of Pak's chase when Babar tried defend a ball by leg spinner Jeffrey Vandersay but missed it and the ball uprooted his off stump.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ranji-trophy-manipur-batter-lamabam-singh-given-out-for-hitting-the-ball-twice-1763526950273">Ranji Trophy: Manipur batter Lamabam Singh gets 'rarest of rare dismissal' because of umpire's unawareness</a>After the dismissal, Babar was clearly not happy, lost his cool and hit the stumps in anger. He was found in breach of Article 2.2 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, pertaining to “abuse of cricket equipment or clothing, ground equipment or fixtures and fittings during an International Match.”He was fined 10 per cent of the match fees in addition to a demerit point as well - his first in 24-month period. Pakistan, however, won the the match comfortably to win the series 3-0. Babar scored 165 runs in the series - joint most along with Fakhar Zaman. Babar, however, scored the runs at an average of 82 in comparison to 55 by Fakhar. The former Pak skipper also ended his century drought in the series - scoring his 20th ODI ton in the second ODI of the series - also the joint most for his country alongside former opener Saeed Anwar.

After the dismissal, Babar was clearly not happy, lost his cool and hit the stumps in anger. He was found in breach of Article 2.2 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel.

Pakistan batter Babar Azam had a horrible outing against Zimbabwe in the first match of the tri-series which also involves Sri Lanka. The match played at Rawalpindi saw Pakistan winning by five wickets but Babar was out on a duck during the chase. to add to his woes, the ICC has fined Babar for hitting the stumps in anger before leaving the field during recently-played third ODI of the three-match series against Sri Lanka. The Pakistan batter was not only fined monetarily but also handed a demerit point for his conduct unbecoming of player as per the ICC rules. Babar fined and handed demerit point by ICC The incident happened on November 16 in the 21st over of Pak's chase when Babar tried defend a ball by leg spinner Jeffrey Vandersay but missed it and the ball uprooted his off stump. Also Read - Ranji Trophy: Manipur batter Lamabam Singh gets 'rarest of rare dismissal' because of umpire's unawareness After the dismissal, Babar was clearly not happy, lost his cool and hit the stumps in anger. He was found in breach of Article 2.2 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, pertaining to “abuse of cricket equipment or clothing, ground equipment or fixtures and fittings during an International Match.” He was fined 10 per cent of the match fees in addition to a demerit point as well - his first in 24-month period. Pakistan, however, won the the match comfortably to win the series 3-0. Babar scored 165 runs in the series - joint most along with Fakhar Zaman. Babar, however, scored the runs at an average of 82 in comparison to 55 by Fakhar. The former Pak skipper also ended his century drought in the series - scoring his 20th ODI ton in the second ODI of the series - also the joint most for his country alongside former opener Saeed Anwar.

After the dismissal, Babar was clearly not happy, lost his cool and hit the stumps in anger. He was found in breach of Article 2.2 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel.

ICC hands Pakistan batter Babar Azam punishment for breach of Code of Conduct

From Shubman Gill to Babar Azam, here's a look at the top five batters in latest ICC ODI rankings 2025. This list also includes Rohit Sharma, Ibrahim Zadran and Daryl Mitchell. 

From Shubman Gill to Babar Azam, here's a look at the top five batters in latest ICC ODI rankings 2025. This list also includes Rohit Sharma, Ibrahim Zadran and Daryl Mitchell.&nbsp;

Meet top 5 batters in latest ICC ODI rankings 2025

Fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi grabbed three wickets and star batter Babar Azam hit a half-century to guide Pakistan to a four-wicket win over South Africa in the second Twenty20 international. Shaheen took 3-26 to restrict South Africa to 139-9 before Azam's 47-ball 68 helped Pakistan overhaul the target for the loss of six wickets in 19 overs for a 2-1 series win in Lahore.&nbsp;&nbsp;South Africa won the first match by 55 runs in Rawalpindi while Pakistan took the second by nine wickets, also in Lahore. A full house of 32,000 at Gaddafi Stadium cheered the home boy Azam when he cracked three successive boundaries off Ottniel Baartman to reach his 37th half-century -- his first after 13 T20I innings.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-zealand-kane-williamson-announces-t20i-retirement-ahead-of-next-year-world-cup-1762055242110">New Zealand’s Kane Williamson announces T20I retirement ahead of next year’s World Cup</a>&nbsp;Azam and Salman Agha (33) lifted Pakistan during a solid 76-run stand for the third wicket after Saim Ayub (nought) and Sahibzada Farhan (19) fell by the seventh over. Azam smashed nine boundaries but his dismissal to pacer Corbin Bosch put Pakistan in a spot of bother with Hasan Nawaz (five) and Mohammad Nawaz (nought) falling in quick succession. Usman Khan, six not out, hit the winning single.&nbsp;"I am happy at the come-from-behind series win," said the skipper Agha. "We were 1-0 down so it was a great effort by the players to win the next two."&nbsp;South African skipper Donovan Ferreira rued his side's batting.&nbsp;"We lost wickets in clusters and didn't score much, but credit to the bowlers to keep it tight," said Ferreira. "It was a great learning for us."&nbsp;South Africa, sent in to bat, slipped to two down without a run as Shaheen dismissed Quinton de Kock and Lhuan-dre Pretorius – both without scoring – off the second and third balls of the match.&nbsp;It became three down without a run, but Dewald Brevis overturned a leg-before decision off the fifth ball.&nbsp;The reprieve helped him add 38 for the third wicket with Reeza Hendricks to revive the innings, before debutant Usman Tariq broke the stand, getting Brevis caught off his second ball.&nbsp;Brevis hit two sixes in his 22-ball 21.&nbsp;Hendricks and Ferreira (29 with three sixes) added 34 for the fifth wicket.&nbsp;Hendricks, top-scorer with a 36-ball 34 with two boundaries, holed out in the 15th over off Tariq, who finished with 2-26.&nbsp;It was left to Bosch to help South Africa reach a fighting total with 30 not out.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

A packed house of 32,000 at Gaddafi Stadium cheered the home boy Azam when he cracked three successive boundaries off Ottniel Baartman to reach his 37th half-century -- his first after 13 T20I innings. 

Fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi grabbed three wickets and star batter Babar Azam hit a half-century to guide Pakistan to a four-wicket win over South Africa in the second Twenty20 international. Shaheen took 3-26 to restrict South Africa to 139-9 before Azam's 47-ball 68 helped Pakistan overhaul the target for the loss of six wickets in 19 overs for a 2-1 series win in Lahore. South Africa won the first match by 55 runs in Rawalpindi while Pakistan took the second by nine wickets, also in Lahore. A full house of 32,000 at Gaddafi Stadium cheered the home boy Azam when he cracked three successive boundaries off Ottniel Baartman to reach his 37th half-century -- his first after 13 T20I innings. Also read | New Zealand’s Kane Williamson announces T20I retirement ahead of next year’s World Cup Azam and Salman Agha (33) lifted Pakistan during a solid 76-run stand for the third wicket after Saim Ayub (nought) and Sahibzada Farhan (19) fell by the seventh over. Azam smashed nine boundaries but his dismissal to pacer Corbin Bosch put Pakistan in a spot of bother with Hasan Nawaz (five) and Mohammad Nawaz (nought) falling in quick succession. Usman Khan, six not out, hit the winning single. "I am happy at the come-from-behind series win," said the skipper Agha. "We were 1-0 down so it was a great effort by the players to win the next two." South African skipper Donovan Ferreira rued his side's batting. "We lost wickets in clusters and didn't score much, but credit to the bowlers to keep it tight," said Ferreira. "It was a great learning for us." South Africa, sent in to bat, slipped to two down without a run as Shaheen dismissed Quinton de Kock and Lhuan-dre Pretorius – both without scoring – off the second and third balls of the match. It became three down without a run, but Dewald Brevis overturned a leg-before decision off the fifth ball. The reprieve helped him add 38 for the third wicket with Reeza Hendricks to revive the innings, before debutant Usman Tariq broke the stand, getting Brevis caught off his second ball. Brevis hit two sixes in his 22-ball 21. Hendricks and Ferreira (29 with three sixes) added 34 for the fifth wicket. Hendricks, top-scorer with a 36-ball 34 with two boundaries, holed out in the 15th over off Tariq, who finished with 2-26. It was left to Bosch to help South Africa reach a fighting total with 30 not out. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

A packed house of 32,000 at Gaddafi Stadium cheered the home boy Azam when he cracked three successive boundaries off Ottniel Baartman to reach his 37th half-century -- his first after 13 T20I innings.&nbsp;

PAK vs SA 3rd T20I: Babar Azam, Shaheen star in Pakistan’s series clinching win in Lahore

Former Pakistan captain and star batter Babar Azam has dethroned his counterpart and batting giant Rohit Sharma from India for the most T20I runs. Against South Africa in the just-concluded second T20I in Lahore on Friday (Oct 31), Babar remained unbeaten on 11 to help his team level the three-match T20Is and also surpass Rohit on the all-time list. Back into the T20I side for the first time in a year, Babar needed just nine runs to get past Rohit’s overall runs tally, and he did that in the most Babar style, with a gentle single off Donovan Ferreira to long off.&nbsp;This record, however, comes as a boost for the batting star, who lately missed plenty of international action, including the 2025 Asia Cup and the home Proteas Tests. His form was the biggest worry for the Pakistan selectors, who dropped him across formats earlier. Returning to the team after a long time, Babar got out on a second-ball duck in the first game in Rawalpindi, missing out on surpassing Rohit in that game only.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/matter-to-be-taken-to-icc-bcci-issues-strong-warning-to-mohsin-naqvi-amid-asia-cup-trophy-row-1761932024145">‘Matter to be taken to ICC’: BCCI issues strong warning to Mohsin Naqvi amid Asia Cup trophy row</a><h3>Most T20I Runs – &nbsp;</h3><ul><li>Babar Azam (PAK) – 4234*</li><li>Rohit Sharma (IND) – 4231</li><li>Virat Kohli (IND) – 4188</li><li>Jos Buttler (ENG) – 3869*</li><li>Paul Stirling (IRE) – 3710*</li></ul><h3>What happened in Lahore T20I?</h3>After losing the series opener, Pakistan buckled up for the second game, putting up an improved performance to level the series. Reducing South Africa to a mere 110 inside the 20th over, with all-rounder Faheem Ashraf picking up four wickets, Pakistan needed a solid start to set the tone in the run chase. &nbsp;The two openers, Sahibzada Farhan and Saim Ayub, began proceedings, with the youngster Ayub taking on the charge. Stitching a 54-run stand for the first wicket, the pair put the hosts in the driver’s seat before Ayub took the attack to the opposition, smashing an unbeaten 71 off 38 balls, including five sixes and six fours. &nbsp;Pakistan chased the target with nine wickets and 41 balls remaining. &nbsp;The Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore will host the final T20I on Saturday (Nov 1).

The retired Indian pair of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are second and third on the all-time list in T20Is.

Former Pakistan captain and star batter Babar Azam has dethroned his counterpart and batting giant Rohit Sharma from India for the most T20I runs. Against South Africa in the just-concluded second T20I in Lahore on Friday (Oct 31), Babar remained unbeaten on 11 to help his team level the three-match T20Is and also surpass Rohit on the all-time list. Back into the T20I side for the first time in a year, Babar needed just nine runs to get past Rohit’s overall runs tally, and he did that in the most Babar style, with a gentle single off Donovan Ferreira to long off. This record, however, comes as a boost for the batting star, who lately missed plenty of international action, including the 2025 Asia Cup and the home Proteas Tests. His form was the biggest worry for the Pakistan selectors, who dropped him across formats earlier. Returning to the team after a long time, Babar got out on a second-ball duck in the first game in Rawalpindi, missing out on surpassing Rohit in that game only. Also read | ‘Matter to be taken to ICC’: BCCI issues strong warning to Mohsin Naqvi amid Asia Cup trophy row Most T20I Runs – Babar Azam (PAK) – 4234* Rohit Sharma (IND) – 4231 Virat Kohli (IND) – 4188 Jos Buttler (ENG) – 3869* Paul Stirling (IRE) – 3710* What happened in Lahore T20I? After losing the series opener, Pakistan buckled up for the second game, putting up an improved performance to level the series. Reducing South Africa to a mere 110 inside the 20th over, with all-rounder Faheem Ashraf picking up four wickets, Pakistan needed a solid start to set the tone in the run chase. The two openers, Sahibzada Farhan and Saim Ayub, began proceedings, with the youngster Ayub taking on the charge. Stitching a 54-run stand for the first wicket, the pair put the hosts in the driver’s seat before Ayub took the attack to the opposition, smashing an unbeaten 71 off 38 balls, including five sixes and six fours. Pakistan chased the target with nine wickets and 41 balls remaining. The Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore will host the final T20I on Saturday (Nov 1).

The retired Indian pair of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are second and third on the all-time list in T20Is.

PAK vs SA 2nd T20I: Pakistan's Babar Azam dethrones Rohit Sharma for most T20I runs

Here is a look at the five top-performing players in ICC ODI Rankings this week, featuring Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Ibrahim Zadran, Babar Azam, and Daryl Mitchell, who have all been in brilliant form for their respective teams.

Here is a look at the five top-performing players in ICC ODI Rankings this week, featuring Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Ibrahim Zadran, Babar Azam, and Daryl Mitchell, who have all been in brilliant form for their respective teams.

From Rohit Sharma to Shubman Gill, 5 top-performing players in ICC ODI Rankings

Pakistan batter Babar Azam's return to T20Is lasted only two balls as he got out on duck in the match against South Africa on Tuesday (Oct 28). Babar's last T20I, also against South Africa, had come in December 2024 and he was out of the side since. Babar's return to the side, which came after Pakistan's loss in Asia Cup 2025 final against India, had also drawn criticism. His failure surely hasn't helped his case as the batter would draw even more scrutiny after his duck against South Africa.<h2>Babar out on duck on T20I return</h2>Babar came to bat at number three in Rawalpindi - the first ball he faced was a wide down the leg side. The batter, however, could face only one ball before he tried to go over the field off Corbin Bosch and was caught rather tamely. Have a look at the video below:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Contribution Of Babar Azam on His Come Back. -Missed Run Out -Dropped easy Catch -Wasted Two Balls <a href="https://t.co/698g7Qadde">pic.twitter.com/698g7Qadde</a>&mdash; SheR•ALI (@Sher__Ali) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sher__Ali/status/1983223294611341417?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 28, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Babar has been horribly out of form in the recent times across formats. Before the T20Is, he played in two Tests against South Africa, scoring 131 runs in four innings with only one fifty. Overall, Babar has played 128 T20Is and has scored 4,223 runs at an average of 40 and a strike rate of 129. He also has three tons, 36 fifties in 20-over cricket with a best of 122.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shreyas-iyer-injury-update-india-odi-vice-captain-stable-and-under-observation-in-sydney-hospital-1761670326851">Shreyas Iyer injury update: India ODI vice-captain 'stable and under observation' in Sydney hospital</a><h2>Why Pakistan wearing pink jersey?</h2>Pakistan decided to wear pink jersey in the first T20I against South Africa against their traditional green shirt. The jersey colour change was to signify Pakistan Cricket Board's (0PCB) supports towards Pink Ribbon Pakistan" campaign. The initiative is being run to bring awareness about breast cancer. Apart from Pak's pink jersey, South Arica players and match official also worn pink ribbons.The Pakistan Cricket Board takes immense pride in using the power and reach of cricket to create awareness about causes that affect our society," Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief operating officer Sumair Ahmad Syed said in a statement.

Babar, in his first T20I in 2025, came to bat at number three in Rawalpindi - the first ball he faced was a wide down the leg side. The batter, however, could face only one ball before he tried to go over the field off Corbin Bosch and was caught rather tamely.

Pakistan batter Babar Azam's return to T20Is lasted only two balls as he got out on duck in the match against South Africa on Tuesday (Oct 28). Babar's last T20I, also against South Africa, had come in December 2024 and he was out of the side since. Babar's return to the side, which came after Pakistan's loss in Asia Cup 2025 final against India, had also drawn criticism. His failure surely hasn't helped his case as the batter would draw even more scrutiny after his duck against South Africa. Babar out on duck on T20I return Babar came to bat at number three in Rawalpindi - the first ball he faced was a wide down the leg side. The batter, however, could face only one ball before he tried to go over the field off Corbin Bosch and was caught rather tamely. Have a look at the video below:

Babar, in his first T20I in 2025, came to bat at number three in Rawalpindi - the first ball he faced was a wide down the leg side. The batter, however, could face only one ball before he tried to go over the field off Corbin Bosch and was caught rather tamely.

Pakistan vs South Africa: WATCH | Babar Azam, playing first T20I in 2025, gets out on duck

Pakistan will see a major return to their T20I set-up with just months remaining for the T20 World Cup in India, as former captain Babar Azam and speedster Naseem Shah have been named in the squad for the upcoming series against South Africa. Babar, who was dropped for the Asia Cup in the UAE, will return to the T20I squad, having last played for the national team in December 2024. The squad announced on Thursday (Oct 23) will be led by Salman Ali Agha, with Shaheen Shah Afridi leading the ODI squad.<h2>Pakistan announce squad for T20I series</h2>Having been out of favour in the entire 2025 from the T20I squad, Babar’s inclusion in the squad came as a surprise for many. Former Pakistan captain has more than 4000 runs in the T20I format with a best of 4223 and has led his side to a World Cup final and a semifinal in the past. However, since playing against South Africa in an away T20I series, he was not in favour.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-women-s-odi-world-cup-2025-all-you-need-to-know-about-indian-women-s-team-schedule-squad-fixtures-and-more-1758556378933">Women's ODI World Cup 2025: All you need to know about Indian women's team schedule, squad, fixtures and more</a>&nbsp;On the other hand, the Pakistan squad will also see the return of Naseem Shah, who has not played any T20I cricket since last year’s Australia tour. He was plagued with injuries and has struggled with form in recent months. His availability could be a huge boost for Pakistan as they build the squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup, which starts in February.&nbsp;Shaheen Afridi, on the other hand, will be leading the ODI squad after Mohammad Rizwan was sacked from the role on Tuesday.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/5-players-with-most-runs-in-women-s-odi-world-cup-history-debbie-hockley-mithali-raj-janette-brittin-charlotte-edwards-suzie-bates-1757606297874">From Mithali Raj to Janette Brittin, 5 players with most runs in Women's ODI World Cup history</a>&nbsp;Pakistan T20I squad: Salman Ali Agha (c), Abdul Samad, Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Hasan Nawaz, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Mohammad Salman Mirza, Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan (wk), Saim Ayub, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Usman Khan (wk), Usman Tariq.&nbsp;Pakistan ODI squad: Shaheen Shah Afridi (c), Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Faisal Akram, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Haseebullah, Hasan Nawaz, Hussain Talat, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Babar Azam, who was dropped for the Asia Cup in the UAE, will return to the T20I squad, having last played for the national team in December 2024. 

Pakistan will see a major return to their T20I set-up with just months remaining for the T20 World Cup in India, as former captain Babar Azam and speedster Naseem Shah have been named in the squad for the upcoming series against South Africa. Babar, who was dropped for the Asia Cup in the UAE, will return to the T20I squad, having last played for the national team in December 2024. The squad announced on Thursday (Oct 23) will be led by Salman Ali Agha, with Shaheen Shah Afridi leading the ODI squad. Pakistan announce squad for T20I series Having been out of favour in the entire 2025 from the T20I squad, Babar’s inclusion in the squad came as a surprise for many. Former Pakistan captain has more than 4000 runs in the T20I format with a best of 4223 and has led his side to a World Cup final and a semifinal in the past. However, since playing against South Africa in an away T20I series, he was not in favour. ALSO READ | Women's ODI World Cup 2025: All you need to know about Indian women's team schedule, squad, fixtures and more On the other hand, the Pakistan squad will also see the return of Naseem Shah, who has not played any T20I cricket since last year’s Australia tour. He was plagued with injuries and has struggled with form in recent months. His availability could be a huge boost for Pakistan as they build the squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup, which starts in February. Shaheen Afridi, on the other hand, will be leading the ODI squad after Mohammad Rizwan was sacked from the role on Tuesday. ALSO READ | From Mithali Raj to Janette Brittin, 5 players with most runs in Women's ODI World Cup history Pakistan T20I squad: Salman Ali Agha (c), Abdul Samad, Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Hasan Nawaz, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Mohammad Salman Mirza, Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan (wk), Saim Ayub, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Usman Khan (wk), Usman Tariq. Pakistan ODI squad: Shaheen Shah Afridi (c), Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Faisal Akram, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Haseebullah, Hasan Nawaz, Hussain Talat, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Salman Ali Agha.

Babar Azam, who was dropped for the Asia Cup in the UAE, will return to the T20I squad, having last played for the national team in December 2024.&nbsp;

Babar Azam, Naseem Shah return to Pakistan's T20I squad for South Africa and tri-series involving Zimbabwe, Sri Lanka

From Babar Azam to Virat Kohli, meet the five batters who reached 5,000 ODI runs the fastest. The list also features India's only woman cricketer, its vice-captain, Smriti Mandhana.

From Babar Azam to Virat Kohli, meet the five batters who reached 5,000 ODI runs the fastest. The list also features India's only woman cricketer, its vice-captain, Smriti Mandhana.

6 batters to reach fastest 5,000 ODI runs: Smriti Mandhana ahead of Virat Kohli, check full list

Pakistan batter Babar Azam is now the most successful Asian batter in the World Test Championship (WTC) history. He already had the most runs and now has crossed the milestone which no other Asian batter could including great Virat Kohli. Babar reached the latest milestone during his mediocre 23-run innings on day 1 (Oct 12) of the first Test against South Africa in Lahore. Babar is also the only non Australian or English player to score 3,000 or more runs in the WTC history and certainly the first Asian batter to do so.<h2>Babar is now best Asian batter in WTC</h2>The former Pakistan skipper now has 3,021 runs in WTC history - the most by an Asian batter. He scored these runs in 67 innings of 37 matches at an average of nearly 48 with eight tons, 18 fifties and a best of 196. Behind Babar is India Test skipper Shubman Gill among Asian batters with 2,826 runs in 71 innings of 39 Tests at an average of 43 with 10 tons, eight fifties and a best of 269. There is no other Pakistan batter in top 10 Asian batters in terms of run scoring with next best after Babar being Mohammad Rizwan with 2,269 runs.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/overconfidence-or-just-not-important-aussie-skipper-marsh-looking-at-india-series-as-pre-cursor-to-ashes-1760344935786">Aussie skipper Marsh looking at India series as pre-cursor to Ashes</a><h2>Most runs in WTC history</h2>England batter Joe Root has the most runs in WTC history - 6,080 runs in 69 Tests at an average of nearly 53 with 21 tons, 22 fifties and a best of 262. Second on the list is Aussie Steve Smith with 4,278 runs in 55 Tests at an average of nearly 50 with 13 tons, 19 fifties and a best of 211. There are four Australians, four Englishmen along with one Indian and Pakistani each in top 10 batters for most runs in World Test Championship history.

There are four Australians, four Englishmen along with one Indian and Pakistani each in top 10 batters for most runs in World Test Championship history. Babar Azam, the former Pakistan skipper, now has 3,021 runs in WTC history - the most by an Asian batter.

Pakistan batter Babar Azam is now the most successful Asian batter in the World Test Championship (WTC) history. He already had the most runs and now has crossed the milestone which no other Asian batter could including great Virat Kohli. Babar reached the latest milestone during his mediocre 23-run innings on day 1 (Oct 12) of the first Test against South Africa in Lahore. Babar is also the only non Australian or English player to score 3,000 or more runs in the WTC history and certainly the first Asian batter to do so. Babar is now best Asian batter in WTC The former Pakistan skipper now has 3,021 runs in WTC history - the most by an Asian batter. He scored these runs in 67 innings of 37 matches at an average of nearly 48 with eight tons, 18 fifties and a best of 196. Behind Babar is India Test skipper Shubman Gill among Asian batters with 2,826 runs in 71 innings of 39 Tests at an average of 43 with 10 tons, eight fifties and a best of 269. There is no other Pakistan batter in top 10 Asian batters in terms of run scoring with next best after Babar being Mohammad Rizwan with 2,269 runs. Also Read - Aussie skipper Marsh looking at India series as pre-cursor to Ashes Most runs in WTC history England batter Joe Root has the most runs in WTC history - 6,080 runs in 69 Tests at an average of nearly 53 with 21 tons, 22 fifties and a best of 262. Second on the list is Aussie Steve Smith with 4,278 runs in 55 Tests at an average of nearly 50 with 13 tons, 19 fifties and a best of 211. There are four Australians, four Englishmen along with one Indian and Pakistani each in top 10 batters for most runs in World Test Championship history.

There are four Australians, four Englishmen along with one Indian and Pakistani each in top 10 batters for most runs in World Test Championship history. Babar Azam, the former Pakistan skipper, now has 3,021 runs in WTC history - the most by an Asian batter.

Pakistan's Babar Azam in now the most successful Asian batter in WTC history

From Virat Kohli to Shubman Gill, here's a look at the top five batters in latest ICC ODI rankings 2025. This list also includes Rohit Sharma, Babar Azam and Daryl Mitchell

From Virat Kohli to Shubman Gill, here's a look at the top five batters in latest ICC ODI rankings 2025. This list also includes Rohit Sharma, Babar Azam and Daryl Mitchell

From Virat Kohli to Shubman Gill, top 5 batters in latest ICC ODI rankings 2025

From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli, here's a look at the top five active batters with most centuries in One Day Internationals. This list also includes Joe Root, Babar Azam and Quinton de Kock

From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli, here's a look at the top five active batters with most centuries in One Day Internationals. This list also includes Joe Root, Babar Azam and Quinton de Kock

From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli, 5 active batters with most ODI centuries

From Virat Kohli to Babar Azam, here's a look at the top five batters in latest ICC ODI rankings 2025.

From Virat Kohli to Babar Azam, here's a look at the top five batters in latest ICC ODI rankings 2025.

From Virat Kohli to Babar Azam, top 5 batters in latest ICC ODI rankings 2025

Pakistan demoted former captains Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan on Tuesday (Ausg 19) in a contract review that scrapped the top category after a string of poor recent results. There are now no players in the top category A for the first time since the system of central contracts was introduced 21 years ago. Azam and Rizwan have both been demoted to category B contracts, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) said.&nbsp;"We have awarded central contracts to 30 players with 10 each placed in B, C and D. Notably, no player has been selected in category A in this cycle," the PCB said in a media release, without giving any reason.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-asia-cup-squad-shubman-gill-returns-to-t20i-side-as-bcci-announce-15-man-team-check-details-inside-shreyas-iyer-1755595700460">India Asia Cup 2025 Squad Announcement: Shubman Gill returns, Iyer dropped as BCCI name 15-man team</a>&nbsp;Azam and Rizwan are the biggest names in Pakistan cricket but poor performances in the past 12 months saw them lose their places in the Twenty20 international squads announced for a tri-series and the Asia Cup.&nbsp;Joining Rizwan and Azam in category B are T20I captain Salman Agha, Fakhar Zaman, Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Saim Ayub, Shadab Khan and Shaheen Shah Afridi.&nbsp;The national team's recent performances in all three formats of the game have fallen badly.&nbsp;Pakistan beat England in a home Test series 2-1 last year but then lost 2-0 in South Africa and drew 1-1 at home against a lowly West Indies, finishing 10th and last in the World Test Championship.&nbsp;The slump has also resulted in Pakistan Test captain Shan Masood being demoted from category B to D.&nbsp;Pakistan won their first one-day international series in Australia for 22 years in November and routed South Africa 3-0 but then crashed out in the first round of the Champions trophy, an event they co-hosted with Dubai.&nbsp;They also crashed out of last year's Twenty20 World Cup in the first round and lost a recent Twenty20 international series in Bangladesh 2-1.&nbsp;The tri-series, also involving Afghanistan and the United Arab Emirates, starts from August 29 in Sharjah, followed by the Asia Cup in Dubai.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The two superstars are demoted to the B category, with no player in the elite A category, the PCB announced. 

Pakistan demoted former captains Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan on Tuesday (Ausg 19) in a contract review that scrapped the top category after a string of poor recent results. There are now no players in the top category A for the first time since the system of central contracts was introduced 21 years ago. Azam and Rizwan have both been demoted to category B contracts, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) said. "We have awarded central contracts to 30 players with 10 each placed in B, C and D. Notably, no player has been selected in category A in this cycle," the PCB said in a media release, without giving any reason. Also read | India Asia Cup 2025 Squad Announcement: Shubman Gill returns, Iyer dropped as BCCI name 15-man team Azam and Rizwan are the biggest names in Pakistan cricket but poor performances in the past 12 months saw them lose their places in the Twenty20 international squads announced for a tri-series and the Asia Cup. Joining Rizwan and Azam in category B are T20I captain Salman Agha, Fakhar Zaman, Abrar Ahmed, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Saim Ayub, Shadab Khan and Shaheen Shah Afridi. The national team's recent performances in all three formats of the game have fallen badly. Pakistan beat England in a home Test series 2-1 last year but then lost 2-0 in South Africa and drew 1-1 at home against a lowly West Indies, finishing 10th and last in the World Test Championship. The slump has also resulted in Pakistan Test captain Shan Masood being demoted from category B to D. Pakistan won their first one-day international series in Australia for 22 years in November and routed South Africa 3-0 but then crashed out in the first round of the Champions trophy, an event they co-hosted with Dubai. They also crashed out of last year's Twenty20 World Cup in the first round and lost a recent Twenty20 international series in Bangladesh 2-1. The tri-series, also involving Afghanistan and the United Arab Emirates, starts from August 29 in Sharjah, followed by the Asia Cup in Dubai. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The two superstars are demoted to the B category, with no player in the elite A category, the PCB announced.&nbsp;

Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan demoted in PCB contract review after Asia Cup snub

Former Pakistan captain and star batter Babar Azam found no place in the side’s 17-man squad for the 2025 Asia Cup, announced on Sunday (Aug 17). The PCB dropped Babar and keeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan from the T20 squad for the continental tournament starting September 9 in the UAE. Addressing the media, selector Aaqib Javed and new head coach Mike Hesson explained what prompted them to look beyond this star pair, with Hesson admitting that Babar was told to work on a few areas, including his strike rate in the middle overs and his game against spinners.&nbsp;“There is no doubt Babar’s been asked to improve in some areas around taking on spin and in terms of his strike rate. Those are things he is working really hard on,” the coach Hesson said, as quoted by the ICC. &nbsp;Babar will feature for Sydney Sixers in the upcoming season of the Big Bash League (BBL), with Hesson pushing him to succeed in his maiden stint in franchise cricket Down Under. The right-handed batter, who has scored over 13,000 runs across all T20s, strikes at just under 130, but his average stands at 43.07. For Pakistan, he has featured in 130 T20Is, scoring 4223 runs, with three hundreds to his name.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-chief-selector-ajit-agarkar-to-reward-shreyas-iyer-with-asia-cup-call-up-shubman-gill-yashasvi-jaiswal-out-of-selection-race-report-1755453427610">BCCI chief selector Agarkar to reward Shreyas Iyer with Asia Cup call-up; Gill, Jaiswal out of selection race – Report</a> &nbsp;Babar, 30, hasn’t played any T20Is for Pakistan since late 2024, with the selectors opting for fresher legs for the shortest format. &nbsp;“A player like Babar has an opportunity to play in the BBL and show he is improving in those areas in T20s. He is too good a player not to consider,” Hesson continued. &nbsp;Meanwhile, Pakistan will begin preparation for the 2025 Asia Cup with a triangular T20I series also involving the UAE and Afghanistan.&nbsp; &nbsp;In the Asia Cup, India and Pakistan are placed in Group A, alongside Oman and the UAE, with the marquee clash against India scheduled for Sunday (Sep 14) in Dubai. &nbsp;Besides, if India and Pakistan top Group A, they could face off in the Super 4s.<h3>Pakistan squad for triangular T20Is and 2025 Asia Cup –</h3>Salman Agha (captain), Abrar Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Hasan Nawaz, Hussain Talat, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Haris (wk), Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Wasim, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Salman Mirza, Shaheen Shah Afridi and Sufiyan Muqeem

Pakistan selectors dropped Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan from the 2025 Asia Cup squad.

Former Pakistan captain and star batter Babar Azam found no place in the side’s 17-man squad for the 2025 Asia Cup, announced on Sunday (Aug 17). The PCB dropped Babar and keeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan from the T20 squad for the continental tournament starting September 9 in the UAE. Addressing the media, selector Aaqib Javed and new head coach Mike Hesson explained what prompted them to look beyond this star pair, with Hesson admitting that Babar was told to work on a few areas, including his strike rate in the middle overs and his game against spinners. “There is no doubt Babar’s been asked to improve in some areas around taking on spin and in terms of his strike rate. Those are things he is working really hard on,” the coach Hesson said, as quoted by the ICC. Babar will feature for Sydney Sixers in the upcoming season of the Big Bash League (BBL), with Hesson pushing him to succeed in his maiden stint in franchise cricket Down Under. The right-handed batter, who has scored over 13,000 runs across all T20s, strikes at just under 130, but his average stands at 43.07. For Pakistan, he has featured in 130 T20Is, scoring 4223 runs, with three hundreds to his name. Also read | BCCI chief selector Agarkar to reward Shreyas Iyer with Asia Cup call-up; Gill, Jaiswal out of selection race – Report Babar, 30, hasn’t played any T20Is for Pakistan since late 2024, with the selectors opting for fresher legs for the shortest format. “A player like Babar has an opportunity to play in the BBL and show he is improving in those areas in T20s. He is too good a player not to consider,” Hesson continued. Meanwhile, Pakistan will begin preparation for the 2025 Asia Cup with a triangular T20I series also involving the UAE and Afghanistan. In the Asia Cup, India and Pakistan are placed in Group A, alongside Oman and the UAE, with the marquee clash against India scheduled for Sunday (Sep 14) in Dubai. Besides, if India and Pakistan top Group A, they could face off in the Super 4s. Pakistan squad for triangular T20Is and 2025 Asia Cup – Salman Agha (captain), Abrar Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Hasan Nawaz, Hussain Talat, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Haris (wk), Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Wasim, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Salman Mirza, Shaheen Shah Afridi and Sufiyan Muqeem

Pakistan selectors dropped Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan from the 2025 Asia Cup squad.

‘He’s too good a player…’ Babar Azam has new PAK coach Hesson’s backing after Asia Cup snub

Pakistan have announced their 15-man squad for the upcoming Asia Cup 2025 as they dropped a bombshell. The squad announced on Sunday (Aug 17) has seen two notable exclusions as Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan were dropped, while Salman Ali Agha will lead Pakistan. It will be the same squad that will feature against the UAE and Afghanistan as Pakistan go through a phase of transition.&nbsp;<h2>Babar, Rizwan dropped</h2>Babar and Rizwan, who have served Pakistan cricket for more than a decade, won’t be part of the squad that will challenge for the Asia Cup. The selectors have cleared their intention with the futures of Babar and Rizwan, who are now likely to face the axe in the T20 World Cup. Babar has been going through a rough patch of form and has now gone more than 700 days without an international hundred.&nbsp;&nbsp;For Rizwan, the situation is no different as he too looks out of touch with the national team. Having played more than 100 T20Is, Babar won’t feature in the Asia Cup squad, where Pakistan were victorious in 2016.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Men in Green had a horrible start to the year when they finished the Champions Trophy without a win. They finished rock bottom in Group A and notably lost to India in the UAE, where this year’s Asia Cup will be staged.&nbsp;&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rohit-sharma-to-virat-kohli-here-is-a-look-at-five-indian-batters-with-most-runs-in-asia-cup-odis-t20is-sachin-tendulkar-ms-dhoni-dhawan-1754123070628">From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli, 5 Indian batters with most runs in Asia Cup (ODIs + T20Is)</a>&nbsp;Pakistan will start their Asia Cup 2025 campaign against Oman on Friday (Sep 12) before facing India in a high-voltage clash on Sep 14. Pakistan will then conclude the group stage on Wednesday (Sep 17) against the UAE.&nbsp;&nbsp;According to the format, if both India and Pakistan finish in the top two of Group A, they will meet again in the Super 4 clash on Sep 21.&nbsp;<h2>Pakistan squad</h2>Salman Ali Agha (c), Abrar Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Hasan Nawaz, Hussain Talat, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Haris (wk), Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Waseem Jnr, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Salman Mirza, Shaheen Shah Afridi and Sufyan Moqim.

The Asia Cup 2025 squad announced on Sunday has seen two notable exclusions as Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan were dropped, while Salman Ali Agha will lead Pakistan. It will be the same squad that will feature against the UAE and Afghanistan as Pakistan go through a phase of transition. 

Pakistan have announced their 15-man squad for the upcoming Asia Cup 2025 as they dropped a bombshell. The squad announced on Sunday (Aug 17) has seen two notable exclusions as Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan were dropped, while Salman Ali Agha will lead Pakistan. It will be the same squad that will feature against the UAE and Afghanistan as Pakistan go through a phase of transition. Babar, Rizwan dropped Babar and Rizwan, who have served Pakistan cricket for more than a decade, won’t be part of the squad that will challenge for the Asia Cup. The selectors have cleared their intention with the futures of Babar and Rizwan, who are now likely to face the axe in the T20 World Cup. Babar has been going through a rough patch of form and has now gone more than 700 days without an international hundred. For Rizwan, the situation is no different as he too looks out of touch with the national team. Having played more than 100 T20Is, Babar won’t feature in the Asia Cup squad, where Pakistan were victorious in 2016. The Men in Green had a horrible start to the year when they finished the Champions Trophy without a win. They finished rock bottom in Group A and notably lost to India in the UAE, where this year’s Asia Cup will be staged. ALSO READ | From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli, 5 Indian batters with most runs in Asia Cup (ODIs + T20Is) Pakistan will start their Asia Cup 2025 campaign against Oman on Friday (Sep 12) before facing India in a high-voltage clash on Sep 14. Pakistan will then conclude the group stage on Wednesday (Sep 17) against the UAE. According to the format, if both India and Pakistan finish in the top two of Group A, they will meet again in the Super 4 clash on Sep 21. Pakistan squad Salman Ali Agha (c), Abrar Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Hasan Nawaz, Hussain Talat, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Haris (wk), Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Waseem Jnr, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Salman Mirza, Shaheen Shah Afridi and Sufyan Moqim.

The Asia Cup 2025 squad announced on Sunday has seen two notable exclusions as Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan were dropped, while Salman Ali Agha will lead Pakistan. It will be the same squad that will feature against the UAE and Afghanistan as Pakistan go through a phase of transition.&nbsp;

Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan dropped as Pakistan announce squad for 2025 Asia Cup

Former Pakistan captain Babar Azam’s poor run with the bat continued after he was dismissed for a duck in the second ODI against the West Indies on Sunday (August 10) in Trinidad &amp; Tobago. Since then it's been over 700 days and 71 innings for him, without the magical three-figure mark in any international match. Babar who was once considered to be Virat Kohli’s successor in ODI cricket is enduring a poor form across formats. After his latest dismissal, netizens trolled Babar's form, as he has not scored an international century since August 2023.&nbsp;&nbsp;In the first ODI against West indies on Friday (August 7), the 30-year-old fell three runs short of half-century and in the second match, West Indies pacer Jayden Seales bowled him out for a duck. The match itself was disappointing for the Pakistan team as other players also failed to contribute much to the team.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/top-5-bowlers-with-best-bowling-economy-in-wi-vs-pak-odis-malcolm-marshall-curtly-ambrose-courtney-walsh-abdul-qadir-roger-harper-1754650655925">- Top five bowlers with best bowling economy in WI vs PAK ODIs, only one Pakistani bowler is on list</a>&nbsp;In a rain-shortened 37-over game at the Brian Lara Stadium, Pakistan scored only 171 runs for the loss of 7 wickets. Not only Babar but captain Mohammad Rizwan also struggled against the West Indies bowling and made just 16 runs off 38 balls. Overall no Pakistani batter crossed 40-run mark.&nbsp;&nbsp;The home side would later chase the 184-run target in 33.2 overs after it was reset due to rain. While West Indies batters chased the DLS-set target to win by five wickets, it was the former Pakistan captain who made the headlines.&nbsp;&nbsp;Seeing this performance of Pakistan's team, social media was quick to react and specifically pointed out Babar for his current form. One user wrote, “no Zimbabwe, no Nepal, no party for Babar Azam". Another pointed out, “Babar Azam has now gone 71 innings and 712 days without an international century. Last ton was vs Nepal in Asia Cup 2023.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Third user wrote, “ With Babar Azam not being at his best for a while now. I am beginning to ask this question? Is he out of form or just past his prime ?”.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">No Zimbabwe, No Nepal, No Party for Babar Azam. <a href="https://t.co/3cmwjQvMAl">pic.twitter.com/3cmwjQvMAl</a>&mdash; Heisenberg (@rovvmut_) <a href="https://twitter.com/rovvmut_/status/1954551444628967452?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 10, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Babar Azam has now gone 71 innings and 712 days without an international century. Last ton was vs Nepal in Asia Cup 2023. Lots of hype, maybe Babar isn’t as clutch as people think. 🤷‍♂️ <a href="https://t.co/2khtbp6L6E">pic.twitter.com/2khtbp6L6E</a>&mdash; Lalit Kaur Dhillon (@LalitKaur) <a href="https://twitter.com/LalitKaur/status/1954783340529320313?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 11, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">With babar Azam not being at his best for a while now I am beginning to ask this question Is he out of form or just past his prime ? <a href="https://t.co/XXOZCJsDFm">pic.twitter.com/XXOZCJsDFm</a>&mdash; kashif farid (@kash8778) <a href="https://twitter.com/kash8778/status/1954782742497144966?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 11, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

It has been more than 700 days and 71 innings for Babar Azam, without an international century, as his poor form is a concern for Pakistan ahead of the upcoming Asia Cup 2025 in the UAE.

Former Pakistan captain Babar Azam’s poor run with the bat continued after he was dismissed for a duck in the second ODI against the West Indies on Sunday (August 10) in Trinidad & Tobago. Since then it's been over 700 days and 71 innings for him, without the magical three-figure mark in any international match. Babar who was once considered to be Virat Kohli’s successor in ODI cricket is enduring a poor form across formats. After his latest dismissal, netizens trolled Babar's form, as he has not scored an international century since August 2023. In the first ODI against West indies on Friday (August 7), the 30-year-old fell three runs short of half-century and in the second match, West Indies pacer Jayden Seales bowled him out for a duck. The match itself was disappointing for the Pakistan team as other players also failed to contribute much to the team. Also Read - Top five bowlers with best bowling economy in WI vs PAK ODIs, only one Pakistani bowler is on list In a rain-shortened 37-over game at the Brian Lara Stadium, Pakistan scored only 171 runs for the loss of 7 wickets. Not only Babar but captain Mohammad Rizwan also struggled against the West Indies bowling and made just 16 runs off 38 balls. Overall no Pakistani batter crossed 40-run mark. The home side would later chase the 184-run target in 33.2 overs after it was reset due to rain. While West Indies batters chased the DLS-set target to win by five wickets, it was the former Pakistan captain who made the headlines. Seeing this performance of Pakistan's team, social media was quick to react and specifically pointed out Babar for his current form. One user wrote, “no Zimbabwe, no Nepal, no party for Babar Azam". Another pointed out, “Babar Azam has now gone 71 innings and 712 days without an international century. Last ton was vs Nepal in Asia Cup 2023.” Third user wrote, “ With Babar Azam not being at his best for a while now. I am beginning to ask this question? Is he out of form or just past his prime ?”.

It's been more than 700 days and 71 innings for Babar Azam, without an international century, as his poor form is a concern for Pakistan ahead of the upcoming Asia Cup 2025 in the UAE.

'Missed century by 100 runs': Netizens troll Babar Azam as Pakistan batter slumps to new low in WIndies defeat

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