Babar Azam reaches historic T20 landmark during PSL 11 clash

KARACHI: Ace batter Babar Azam on Wednesday became the fourth player overall to complete 100 half-centuries in T20 cricket. 

The Peshawar Zalmi skipper achieved the feat during his side’s clash against Quetta Gladiators in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 11.

With this milestone, Babar joined Australia’s David Warner, India’s Virat Kohli, and England’s Jos Buttler.

Most half-centuries in men’s T20s

David Warner (Australia) – 116 in 435 innings
Virat Kohli (India) – 107 in 401 innings
Babar Azam (Pakistan) – 100 in 341 innings
Jos Buttler (England) – 100 in 468 innings

Notably, Babar has been in fine form in PSL 11 and currently sits second on the run-scorers’ chart. The right-hander has amassed 301 runs in six matches at an average of 75.25 at a strike rate of 132.59.

Babar scored an unbeaten 71 off 51 balls in Zalmi’s dominant win over Gladiators, marking his 100th half-century in T20s.

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Chasing a modest target of 155, Zalmi got off to a strong start as Mohammad Haris and Babar Azam put together a brisk 75-run opening stand. Haris scored 35 off 28 balls before being dismissed, but the platform had already been set.

Babar, anchoring the innings, found support from Kusal Mendis, who contributed 21 runs during a steady 49-run partnership. After Mendis departed, Babar ensured there were no late hiccups.

The Zalmi captain remained unbeaten on 71 off 51 deliveries, striking 10 boundaries, and guided his side home comfortably with nine balls to spare.

Earlier, Zalmi’s decision to field first proved spot on as Quetta struggled to build momentum and were bowled out for 154 in 20 overs.

Sufiyan Muqeem and Mohammad Basit starred with the ball, both taking wickets.

For his outstanding bowling performance, Muqeem bagged his second player of the match award.

READ: Babar Azam credits bowlers for dominant win against Quetta Gladitors