Babar Azam ended his century drought against Sri Lanka in Rawalpindi during the second ODI, scoring an unbeaten 102. His innings helped Pakistan seal the three-match series with a game to spare.

In classic Babar fashion, the century elevated his stature in Pakistan cricket. This marks his 20th ODI century, officially tying him with legendary Saeed Anwar for the most ODI hundreds by a Pakistani. What makes this feat remarkable is that Babar reached the milestone in 136 innings, far quicker than Anwar’s 244 innings.

Cricket Players ODI Statistics

Babar Azam – Matches: 139 | Innings: 136 | Hundreds: 20 | Average: 53.89

Saeed Anwar – Matches: 247 | Innings: 244 | Hundreds: 20 | Average: 39.21

Mohammad Yousuf – Matches: 281 | Innings: 267 | Hundreds: 15 | Average: 42.08

Fakhar Zaman – Matches: 91 | Innings: 90 | Hundreds: 11 | Average: 45.30

Mohammad Hafeez – Matches: 218 | Innings: 216 | Hundreds: 11 | Average: 32.90

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Babar’s century not only places him firmly among Pakistan’s cricketing greats but also silences critics calling for his exclusion. At 31 years old, he appears to have regained his peak form. Fans hope he can surpass Anwar’s record in the next ODI, setting a benchmark that could stand for decades.Pakistan cricket has produced many heroes, and Babar Azam’s latest milestone cements his place in history. His innings in Rawalpindi may well mark the start of a new chapter for the superstar and for Pakistan cricket.