Multan Cricket Stadium witnessed a sensational performance as Pakistan’s captain and star batsman, Babar Azam, smashed 19th century in the opening match of the Asia Cup 2023. This historic century established him as the fastest cricketer to reach 19 ODI centuries, overtaking both Hashim Amla and Virat Kohli.
The opening match of the tournament, featuring Pakistan against debutant Nepal, unfolded at Multan, promising a captivating showdown. Stepping into the limelight, Babar Azam showcased his extraordinary batting skills, guiding Pakistan to a commanding total.
In the riveting showdown of the Asia Cup’s inaugural match, Babar Azam etched his name in cricket history by notching his 19th ODI century. The superstar’s innings showcased his unrivaled batting class as he reached the milestone in the 42nd over. This remarkable feat propelled Babar ahead of cricket luminaries like Virat Kohli, Hashim Amla, David Warner, and AB de Villiers. Impressively, Babar achieved this feat within 102 innings.
In the opening encounter of the Asia Cup, Babar Azam carved his name into the annals of cricket history with his 19th ODI century. Displaying his unparalleled batting finesse, he attained this milestone in the 42nd over. This exceptional achievement catapulted Babar past cricket icons such as Virat Kohli, Hashim Amla, David Warner, and AB de Villiers. Notably, Babar reached the fastest 19th ODI hundred in a mere 102 innings.
Babar Azam’s Fastest Century Milestone
Babar Azam’s reputation as a premier batter was further solidified as he became the quickest player to reach 19 ODI centuries in the 50-over format. His 19th century came during the Asia Cup 2023 opener, surpassing Hashim Amla’s previous record achieved in 104 innings. Virat Kohli, the former captain of India, took 124 innings to secure his 19th ODI century. Meanwhile, David Warner accomplished the milestone in 139 innings, and AB de Villiers reached it in his 171st inning.
Babar’s Batting Blitz
Following the historic century, Babar Azam continued to stamp his authority on the game. He unleashed a flurry of remarkable shots, including a stunning one-handed six off Gulshan Jha in the 43rd over. Unveiling an unprecedented facet of his game, Babar smashed three consecutive sixes—a first in his ODI career. His monumental knock of 151 runs off 131 balls propelled Pakistan to a commanding total of 342, setting Nepal a formidable target of 343 runs.