Babar Azam set to chase history as Pakistan face South Africa in ODI opener

Babar Azam stands on the threshold of history as the three-match ODI series between Pakistan and South Africa begins today (Tuesday) at Faisalabad’s Iqbal Stadium.

The star batter is eyeing two major milestones that could further strengthen his place among Pakistan’s cricketing greats.

Babar is just one century away from equalling the legendary opener Saeed Anwar’s record for the most hundreds by a Pakistani in One-Day Internationals. Anwar, one of the most stylish batters of his time, scored 20 centuries in 247 matches and 244 innings. In comparison, Babar has already reached 19 centuries in only 134 matches and 131 innings, which reflects his remarkable consistency and class.

If he manages another hundred in this series, Babar will not only match Anwar’s long-standing record but also have the chance to surpass it and set a new mark for future generations. Mohammad Yousuf follows them with 15 centuries in 281 matches, while Fakhar Zaman and Mohammad Hafeez each have 11 centuries to their names.

Chasing milestones

Babar’s ambitions go beyond national records. He is also on the verge of becoming the second-fastest player in ODI history to reach 20 centuries. With 19 centuries in 131 innings so far, he is closing in on India’s Virat Kohli, who reached the milestone in 133 innings.

If Babar reaches his next century within the next two innings, he will move ahead of Kohli and become the second-fastest player to reach the milestone, behind South Africa’s Hashim Amla, who accomplished the feat in only 108 innings. Players like AB de Villiers and Rohit Sharma reached 20 ODI centuries in 175 and 183 innings respectively.

Cricket returns to Faisalabad

The series also carries special significance for Faisalabad fans as it marks the return of international cricket to the city after more than 17 years. The last ODI played at the Iqbal Stadium was on April 11, 2008, when Pakistan defeated Bangladesh by seven wickets.

The remaining two ODIs of the series will also take place at the same venue on November 6 and 8.

Pakistan and South Africa have faced each other 87 times in ODIs. South Africa lead the head-to-head record with 52 wins, while Pakistan have won 34 matches, and one game ended without a result.

As both teams prepare for the opening clash, all eyes will be on Babar Azam. A record-equalling century in front of home fans could turn Faisalabad’s return to international cricket into an unforgettable celebration.