Babar Azam has achieved the remarkable distinction of being the joint-fastest batter to exceed the 6,000 runs mark in One Day Internationals (ODIs). This milestone was reached during the Tri-Series final against New Zealand at the National Stadium in Karachi on Friday. Babar executed a well-timed drive for four on the third ball of the seventh over, skillfully anticipating a slower delivery from Jacob Duffy, thereby marking the significant achievement.

With this accomplishment, Babar Azam is now on par with former South African cricketer Hashim Amla, as both have reached the 6,000 ODI runs milestone in just 123 innings.

In comparison, India's Virat Kohli required 136 innings to achieve the same feat, while both Kane Williamson and David Warner reached the milestone in 139 innings each.

Consequently, Babar Azam has become the fastest Asian player to attain this landmark in ODI cricket.

Despite this achievement, Babar has faced challenges in accumulating runs during the ongoing Tri-Nation series against New Zealand and South Africa. In the two matches preceding the final, the 30-year-old managed scores of only 10 and 23.

In the final match, although Babar Azam began with promise, he was unable to build on it, ultimately departing after scoring 29 runs off 34 balls.

The former captain of Pakistan last recorded a century in 2023 against Nepal, and since that time, he has not surpassed the three-figure mark in ODIs.

Babar has taken on the role of opening the batting for Pakistan in the 50-over format following the exclusion of Saim Ayub from the Tri-Nation series and the Champions Trophy.

'Stop calling me king'

Babar Azam has recently requested Pakistani journalists to refrain from referring to him as "king." Following a remarkable record chase against South Africa during the Tri-Nation series, he addressed the media.

"I kindly ask you to stop calling me King. I do not consider myself a king at this stage. I have new responsibilities to undertake," stated Babar Azam.

"What I have accomplished in the past is behind me. Each match presents a new challenge, and my focus must remain on the present and the future," he further remarked.

Babar Azam's most recent international century was achieved against Nepal on August 30, 2023, where he scored 151 runs from 131 balls.

Pakistan is placed in Group A of the Champions Trophy, competing alongside India, New Zealand, and Bangladesh. The team will commence their campaign against New Zealand on February 19.

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