Babar Azam Sets a Global Benchmark After Crossing 9000-Run Milestone

SYLHET: Babar Azam reached another major milestone in international cricket after becoming the first player to cross 9,000 runs in the current decade during the second Test against Bangladesh national cricket team at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium on Sunday.

The former Pakistan captain brought up the landmark during a 68-run knock that briefly held Pakistan’s innings together after an early collapse. His innings came from 84 deliveries and included 10 boundaries as he continued his strong run across formats in the 2020s.

Most international rRuns in the Current Decade (2020s)

• Babar Azam – 9,060
• Joe Root – 8,305
• Mohammad Rizwan – 7,779
• Kusal Mendis – 7,046
• Pathum Nissanka – 6,873
• Virat Kohli – 6,771
• Litton Das – 6,763

With the latest contribution, Babar Azam scored most international runs in decade, moving past the 9,000-run mark in 212 international appearances during the 2020s. His numbers in the period include 17 centuries and 67 half-centuries at an average above 42.

Bangladesh Take First-Innings Lead

Despite Babar’s effort, Pakistan were bowled out for 232 in reply to Bangladesh’s first-innings total of 278, handing the hosts a lead of 46 runs. Bangladesh’s bowling attack maintained pressure through most of the innings after reducing Pakistan to early trouble.

Fast bowler Taskin Ahmed struck twice in the opening phase, removing Abdullah Fazal and Azan Awais as Pakistan slipped to 23 for two. Babar and captain Shan Masood steadied the innings briefly before spinner Mehidy Hasan Miraz dismissed Masood to break the stand.

After lunch, Babar added useful runs alongside Salman Ali Agha, but Bangladesh regained control once Nahid Rana removed the former captain. Nahid and Taijul Islam finished with three wickets each, while Mehidy and Taskin claimed two apiece.

Lower-order resistance from Sajid Khan helped Pakistan cross 200. The off-spinner scored 38 from 28 balls, including four sixes, before Bangladesh wrapped up the innings shortly after tea.

With his latest achievement, Babar set a global benchmark for consistency in international cricket during the 2020s.