Babar Azam, Pakistan’s cricketing prodigy, has consistently been a source of pride for his nation. Known for his elegant batting style and consistency, Babar’s ODI centuries are a testament to his skill and dedication. This blog post explores each of Babar Azam’s ODI centuries, providing insights into his remarkable journey in international cricket.
The Rise of a Cricketing Star
Babar Azam made his ODI debut for Pakistan in May 2015, and since then, he has shown a meteoric rise through the ranks. Known for his composure and technique, Babar quickly became the backbone of Pakistan’s batting lineup, achieving records and milestones at a pace comparable to some of the game’s legends.
First ODI Century
Babar Azam’s first ODI century came against the West Indies in September 2016. Scoring 120 runs off 131 balls in Sharjah, this inning marked the arrival of Babar as a significant player on the international stage, setting the tone for a series of prolific performances.
Notable ODI Centuries
Each of Babar Azam’s ODI centuries has contributed to shaping his career. Noteworthy innings include his 125* against the West Indies in 2017 and his commanding 115 against Sri Lanka in 2019. These innings not only bolstered his stats but also helped Pakistan clinch crucial victories.
Babar’s Approach to Batting
What sets Babar Azam apart in the ODI format is his unique approach to batting. He combines classical cricketing shots with impeccable timing, making him a formidable opponent. His ability to anchor the innings and accelerate when needed makes each of his ODI centuries a masterclass in batting.
Record-Breaking Innings
Babar Azam’s ODI centuries often come in record-breaking fashion. For instance, his fastest ODI century against Australia in April 2022, where he scored 114 runs off 83 balls, showcased his ability to dominate world-class bowling attacks.
Babar Azam in ICC Tournaments
Babar’s performances in ICC tournaments have been pivotal. His century against New Zealand in the 2019 ICC World Cup under pressure was a career-defining innings that not only saved his team but also highlighted his temperament and class.
Comparison with Contemporary Greats
Comparing Babar Azam’s ODI centuries with contemporaries like Virat Kohli and Joe Root illustrates his standing in international cricket. While Kohli might have more centuries, Babar’s consistency and average are comparable, indicating his potential to redefine batting records.
Babar’s Impact on Pakistan Cricket
Babar Azam’s ODI centuries have had a significant impact on Pakistan cricket. As a captain and key player, his performances often dictate the team’s fortunes. His leadership and batting prowess continue to inspire a new generation of cricketers in Pakistan.
Future Prospects
Looking ahead, the number of Babar Azam’s ODI centuries is expected to grow, given his form and fitness. Each inning he plays not only adds to his tally but also cements his legacy as one of the finest batsmen in the history of cricket.
Conclusion
Babar Azam’s ODI centuries are a blend of art and consistency, underscored by his profound impact on the cricket field. As he continues to evolve, his journey is one of relentless pursuit of greatness, promising more enthralling chapters in the annals of cricket history.
FAQ
1. How many ODI centuries does Babar Azam have?
As of the latest update, Babar Azam has scored 17 ODI centuries. However, this number is subject to change as he continues his cricketing career.
2. What is Babar Azam’s highest score in ODIs?
Babar Azam’s highest score in an ODI is 158 runs, which he scored against England in Birmingham in 2021.
3. How does Babar Azam rank among Pakistani batsmen in terms of ODI centuries?
Babar Azam ranks highly among Pakistani batsmen in ODI centuries, quickly closing in on the records held by cricketing legends like Saeed Anwar.
4. What makes Babar Azam’s batting style unique?
Babar Azam’s batting style is distinguished by his solid technique, calm demeanor at the crease, and ability to play long innings, which makes him a standout batsman in modern cricket.
5. Which teams have Babar Azam scored the most centuries against in ODIs?
Babar Azam has scored multiple centuries against top cricketing nations like Sri Lanka, West Indies, and Australia, showcasing his ability to perform against varied bowling attacks.
