Babar Azam etched his name deeper into cricketing history by becoming the fastest batter in men’s T20s to reach 12,000 runs, achieving the milestone during Pakistan Super League season 11 clash between Peshawar Zalmi and Karachi Kings at Karachi’s National Stadium.
Coming into the match just 13 runs shy of the landmark, Babar reached the milestone in emphatic fashion, dispatching Khushdil Shah for a towering six over mid-on in the fourth over of Zalmi’s innings. The shot not only brought up the record but also highlighted the ease and authority with which he continues to dominate the shortest format.
With this feat, Babar became only the 12th player in men’s T20 cricket to surpass the 12,000-run mark, joining an elite club that includes legends such as Chris Gayle, Kieron Pollard, Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, David Warner and Shoaib Malik.
What sets this achievement apart is the pace at which the Pakistan captain reached the milestone. Babar completed 12,000 T20 runs in just 338 innings, overtaking Gayle, who previously held the record with 343 innings. Kohli and Warner follow further behind, underlining the significance of Babar’s consistency and longevity at the top level.
Babar remained unbeaten on 87 runs off 51 balls that included 10 boundaries and two sixes.
Fastest to 12,000 T20 Runs (Men’s Cricket):
Babar Azam – 338 innings
Chris Gayle – 343 innings
Virat Kohli – 360 innings
David Warner – 368 innings
Jos Buttler – 405 innings
The latest milestone further strengthens Babar’s position among the modern greats of T20 cricket. Known for his composure, classical technique, and remarkable consistency, he has remained one of the most prolific run-scorers across both international and franchise cricket.
