Babar surpasses Guptill to become 3rd highest run-getter in T20I

NEW DELHI: Star Pakistan batter Babar Azam made T20I history on Friday during the first match of the series against New Zealand in Auckland by surpassing Martin Guptill to claim the third spot in the all-time list for the highest run-getters.
Babar’s impressive knock of 57 runs in the series opener elevated his career T20I tally to 3542 runs in 105 matches.
This accomplishment positions Babar just behind India’s dynamic duo, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, who currently hold the top two positions with 4008 and 3853 runs, respectively.
Babar’s rise in the rankings is a testament to his consistency and prowess in the shortest format of the game, solidifying his status as one of the premier T20I batsmen in the world.
Despite Babar’s outstanding individual performance, Pakistan faced a formidable challenge at Eden Park, succumbing to a 46-run loss against New Zealand. Daryl Mitchell (61) and the reliable Kane Williamson (57), who both had explosive performances, helped the Kiwis set an imposing target of 226 runs.
Babar, batting in an altered position at number three, led the charge for Pakistan with a resilient innings that included six boundaries and two sixes. Saim Ayub and Mohammad Rizwan provided a fiery start, contributing 27 and 25 runs, respectively.
However, the rest of the batting lineup faltered, and Pakistan found themselves bundled out for 180 in 18 overs.
New Zealand’s bowlers proved effective, capitalising on the wickets secured by Tim Southee (4-25) and Ben Sear (2-42). Despite Babar’s individual milestone, the collective effort fell short, leaving Pakistan trailing 0-1 in the five-match series.