Babar Azam Equals Virat Kohli’s T20 Record with 63 First-Innings 50+ Scores
Pakistan’s batting superstar Babar Azam has once again etched his name alongside cricket legend Virat Kohli, equaling one of the most prestigious records in T20 cricket history. During a high-scoring Big Bash League (BBL 15) match at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), Babar matched Kohli’s record for the most 50-plus scores in T20s while batting first.
This milestone not only highlights Babar Azam’s consistency but also strengthens his case as one of the greatest modern-day T20 batters.
Babar Azam Reaches Historic T20 Milestone
Babar Azam achieved this landmark while playing for Sydney Sixers against Sydney Thunder. Batting in the first innings, the Pakistani batter scored a composed 58 runs off 42 balls, guiding the Sixers to a formidable 198 for 5.
With this knock, Babar brought his tally to 63 fifty-plus scores in first innings T20 matches, equaling Virat Kohli’s long-standing record.
What makes this achievement even more remarkable is that Babar reached the milestone in just 163 innings, while Kohli took 216 innings to reach the same number.
Most 50+ Scores in T20s (Batting First)
| Player | Country | 50+ Scores | Innings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Babar Azam | Pakistan | 63 | 163 |
| Virat Kohli | India | 63 | 216 |
| David Warner | Australia | 58 | 199 |
| Jos Buttler | England | 58 | 217 |
This table clearly shows Babar Azam’s exceptional efficiency and consistency at the top level of T20 cricket.
Match Overview: Sydney Sixers vs Sydney Thunder
The milestone came during a crucial BBL 15 clash at the SCG. After the early dismissal of Daniel Hughes, Babar Azam took control of the innings with a calm and calculated approach.
Key Match Highlights:
- Venue: Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG)
- Tournament: Big Bash League 2025-26
- Score by Babar Azam: 58 (42 balls)
- Sydney Sixers total: 198/5
Babar played the role of an anchor, allowing aggressive batters around him to flourish.
Babar Azam’s Classical and Controlled Innings
Babar Azam’s innings was a masterclass in T20 batting awareness. Rather than forcing shots early, he focused on:
- Rotating the strike in the powerplay
- Supporting attacking partner Josh Philippe
- Gradually increasing his strike rate
The duo stitched together a century partnership, which became the backbone of Sydney Sixers’ massive total.
Shot Selection Breakdown:
- 5 fours through elegant cover drives and square cuts
- 2 sixes hit cleanly down the ground
- Minimal risky shots
- Strong control on off-side strokes
This innings showcased why Babar is often praised for blending classical technique with modern T20 demands.
Dismissal and Impact on the Match
Babar Azam was dismissed in the 18th over by England’s left-arm pacer Reece Topley. However, by the time he walked back, his job was already done.
Sydney Sixers were in complete control, and his innings had ensured:
- Strong momentum in the death overs
- Psychological pressure on Sydney Thunder
- A near-defending total on a batting-friendly pitch
Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli: A Modern T20 Comparison
The comparison between Babar Azam and Virat Kohli has become one of the most discussed debates in modern cricket.
Key Similarities:
- Consistency across formats
- Ability to anchor innings
- Strong temperament in pressure situations
- High average in T20 cricket
Key Difference in This Record:
- Babar reached 63 first-innings 50+ scores in 53 fewer innings than Kohli
- Shows Babar’s quicker impact rate in T20 cricket
This does not diminish Kohli’s greatness but highlights Babar’s remarkable efficiency.
Babar Azam’s Growing Legacy in T20 Cricket
Earlier, Babar Azam also became the highest T20I run-scorer, adding yet another feather to his cap. His performances in leagues like:
- Big Bash League (BBL)
- Pakistan Super League (PSL)
- International T20s
have cemented his reputation as a global T20 icon.
Cricket experts now regularly place Babar among:
- The greatest T20 openers
- The most reliable batters across conditions
- The best anchor-style players in the shortest format
Role of Big Bash League in Babar’s Career
Babar Azam’s participation in the BBL has allowed him to:
- Adapt to Australian pitches
- Face world-class fast bowling
- Improve power-hitting in large stadiums
His success with Sydney Sixers proves his ability to perform outside sub-continent conditions, strengthening his all-format credentials.
What This Record Means for Pakistan Cricket
Babar Azam’s achievement is a moment of pride for Pakistan cricket. It:
- Reinforces Pakistan’s presence in global T20 cricket
- Inspires young cricketers back home
- Strengthens Pakistan’s batting reputation internationally
With upcoming T20 World Cups and major leagues ahead, Babar’s form will be crucial.
Conclusion
By equaling Virat Kohli’s record of 63 first-innings 50+ scores in T20s, Babar Azam has once again proven why he is among the elite batters of this era. Achieving the feat in significantly fewer innings highlights his consistency, adaptability, and cricketing intelligence.
As Babar continues to perform in top leagues like the BBL, fans can expect even more records to fall. For now, this milestone stands as another golden chapter in an already legendary career.
Babar Azam Virat Kohli T20 Record – FAQs
1. What T20 record did Babar Azam equal?
Babar Azam equaled Virat Kohli’s record of 63 fifty-plus scores in first-innings T20 matches.
2. In which match did Babar achieve this milestone?
He achieved it while playing for Sydney Sixers vs Sydney Thunder in BBL 15 at the SCG.
3. How many innings did Babar take to reach 63 scores?
Babar reached the milestone in 163 innings, faster than Virat Kohli.
4. How many runs did Babar score in the record-equalling match?
He scored 58 runs off 42 balls.
5. Why is this record significant?
It highlights Babar Azam’s exceptional consistency and efficiency in T20 cricket.
