Babar Azam biography | The Elegant Run-Machine of Pakistan Cricket | Life, career, records, Achievements | usman on cricket
Babar Azam is one of Pakistan’s greatest modern-day cricketers — a stylish right-handed batsman, former captain across all formats, and widely regarded among the best in the world for his consistency, technique, and elegance. Let’s take a complete look at his life, cricket journey, and achievements.
Babar Azam Biography
| Full Name | Babar Azam |
|---|---|
| Born | October 15, 1994 |
| Birthplace | Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan |
| Role | Top-order Batsman |
| Batting Style | Right-hand Bat |
| Bowling Style | Right-arm Offbreak |
| Teams | Pakistan, Peshawar Zalmi (PSL), Karachi Kings, Somerset, Rangpur Riders, sydney sixers ( will play BBL first time ) |
| Nickname | Bobby |
Early Life and Background
Babar Azam was born and raised in Lahore, where cricket runs deep in his family. He is a cousin of Kamran Akmal, Umar Akmal, and Adnan Akmal — all of whom have represented Pakistan. Inspired by them, Babar began training at a young age and joined a local cricket academy.
His discipline and hunger for success soon caught the attention of coaches, and he rose quickly through Pakistan’s U-15, U-19, and domestic ranks.
International Career Journey
ODI Debut (2015)
Babar made his ODI debut against Zimbabwe in May 2015. He impressed immediately, scoring a fluent 54 on debut in Lahore — a fitting start in front of his home crowd.
By 2016, he had cemented his place with three consecutive ODI centuries against the West Indies, a record that announced his arrival on the global stage.
T20I Career
Babar’s T20I debut came against England in 2016. His calm temperament and ability to anchor innings soon made him Pakistan’s most reliable batter in the shortest format. He rose to No. 1 in ICC T20I batting rankings, consistently delivering runs in bilateral and global series.
Test Cricket Rise
Babar’s Test debut came in 2016 against the West Indies. Though he started slow, his improvement in red-ball cricket has been remarkable. His centuries in Australia, England, and Sri Lanka proved his adaptability.
By 2021, he was among the Top 5 Test batsmen in the world, with several match-saving innings as captain.
Captaincy Era
Babar Azam became Pakistan’s T20I and ODI captain in 2019 and Test captain in 2021.
Under his leadership:
- Pakistan reached the 2021 T20 World Cup semifinal, beating India convincingly.
- He led the team to the 2022 T20 World Cup final.
- Pakistan became No. 1 in ICC ODI Rankings (2023) under his captaincy.
Despite stepping down as captain in 2024, he remains the team’s batting mainstay and a respected senior player.
Playing Style and Strengths
Babar Azam is known for his:
- Classic cover drives and timing-based stroke play
- Calmness under pressure
- Strong wrist work and placement
- Ability to rotate strike efficiently
He’s often compared to Virat Kohli, especially for his consistency across formats and elegant technique.
Career Stats (as of 2025)
| Format | Matches | Runs | Average | 100s/50s | Best Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Test | 60 | 4,300 | 42.57 | 9/29 | 196 |
| ODI | 134 | 6,291 | 54.23 | 19/37 | 158 |
| T20I | 128 | 4,223 | 42.06 | 3/36 | 122 |
| PSL | 100 | 3,792 | 44.61 | 2/36 | 115* |
Major Achievements
- ICC Men’s ODI Cricketer of the Year (2021, 2022)
- Fastest to 5,000 ODI runs (97 innings)
- Most runs in a single PSL season (2023)
- ICC Team of the Year – multiple times across formats
- Pakistan’s all-format captain (2019–2024)
- Only Pakistani to rank Top 3 in ICC rankings across all formats simultaneously
Records and Milestones
- Fastest Pakistani to 1,000, 2,000, 3,000, 4,000, 5,000 ODI runs
- One of the few players to score centuries in three consecutive ODIs twice
- Highest run-scorer for Pakistan in T20 World Cup 2021 & 2022
- Most 50+ scores by a Pakistani in T20Is
BABR AZAM IN PSL | Babar started with Islamabad United but made his name with Karachi Kings, later joining Peshawar Zalmi in 2023.
He has been the most consistent PSL batter, holding the record for most runs in PSL history.
Personal Life
Babar Azam is known for his humble and composed personality. Despite massive fame, he remains grounded, often crediting his family and faith for his success. He got engaged in 2023, with his wedding expected soon (as per media reports).
Current focus & Update on His career (2025)
In 2025, Babar continues to be Pakistan’s batting backbone, eyeing the 2027 ODI World Cup as a senior player. He remains active in the PSL and global leagues, while focusing on improving his Test record overseas. He will feature in Big Bash league 2025/26 season for the very first time and will be the part of Sydney Sixers, though He is struggling to get big runs in international cricket across formats at the moment.
FAQs About – Babar Azam
What is Babar Azam’s highest score in international cricket?
His Highest score in Test cricket is 196 and 158 in ODI’s
Has Babar Azam won ICC awards?
Yes, he won ICC ODI Cricketer of the Year twice — in 2021 and 2022.
Which PSL team does Babar Azam play for?
Babar currently plays for Peshawar Zalmi.
Who is Babar Azam’s idol?
Babar has often mentioned AB de Villiers
Is Babar Azam still Pakistan’s captain?
As of 2025, he stepped down as captain but continues as Pakistan’s senior batsman.
What makes Babar Azam special?
His elegant stroke play, remarkable consistency, and leadership qualities make him one of Pakistan’s finest.
