3 Elite Batting Milestones That Babar Azam Can Achieve In ICC Champions Trophy 2025

Babar Azam in action [Source: AP]

On Wednesday, Pakistan will cross swords against New Zealand in the first match of the ICC Champions Trophy. Led by Mohammad Rizwan, Pakistan are placed in group A alongside New Zealand, Bangladesh and arch-rivals, India. 

Babar Azam will be one of Pakistan's key players to watch out in the tournament. As the stylish batter prepares for the Champions Trophy, here are three significant milestones he can achieve in the showpiece event. 

1. Most ODI Centuries At Home For Pakistan

As shown in the above table, Babar Azam has struck seven ODI centuries in just 25 ODI innings on home soil. Thus, if he slams a hundred in one of the Champions Trophy matches in Pakistan, he will overtake Mohammad Yousuf and claim the first position on the list. 

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2. Most 50+ scores In ODIs For Pakistan vs NZ

Legendary batter Saeed Anwar has recorded the most 50+ scores (11) for Pakistan in ODIs vs New Zealand. Meanwhile, Babar Azam is second on the list with ten scores of fifty runs or more against the BlackCaps in the 50-over format. Therefore, if he slams a half century in the first Champions Trophy match, Babar will record the most fifty-plus scores for Pakistan against New Zealand in ODIs. 

3. Most 50+ Scores For Pakistan In ICC ODI events

As shown in the above table, Javed Miandad has slammed nine fifty-plus scores for Pakistan in 30 ICC World Cup and Champions Trophy matches combined. Former captain Misbah-ul-Haq and legendary opener Saeed Anwar also have nine fifty-plus scores, while Babar Azam is placed fourth with eight scores of fifty or more. Therefore, if Babar scores two more half centuries, he will claim the top position in the standings. 

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