Babar Azam is on the verge of becoming the all-time top run scorer in T20 International cricket, surpassing Rohit Sharma. Azam can touch the milestone during the Pakistan vs South Africa T20I series. After a long time, the Pakistan batting star is set to make a comeback in the format. He has to score only 9 runs to surpass Rohit Sharma. Sharma has retired from T20I, so it is a golden chance for Babar to capture the number one spot of the T20I all-time top run scorer. According to stats, Rohit Sharma scored 4231 runs in 159 matches at an average of 32.05, and Babar Azam is currently in the second spot with 4223 runs in 128 matches. His T20I batting stats are laced with three 100s and thirty-six 50s. 

Top 5 innings of Babar Azam in T20Is:

1. 122 off 59 vs South Africa (Centurion, 2021): 

It was Babar Azam's maiden century in T20 International, which came against South Africa in an away match while chasing a target of 204 runs. He completed his fifty in 27 balls and showed no sign of slowing down. To create this remarkable innings, he smashed 15 fours and 4 sixes in that innings.

2. 110* off 66 vs England (Karachi, 2022):

It was the right-handed batter's second century in the format for Pakistan. In the home match against England, Pakistan batters were at the top of their game. They chased down a total of 200 runs with ease. Babar hit a boundary to finish the match in style. The host won the match without losing any wicket. Mohammad Rizwan accompanied Azam with an 88*-run knock.

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3. 97* off 58 vs West Indies (Karachi, 2018): 

It was the year 2018, when Babar was not established as a quick-scoring batsman. Then scoring an unbeaten 97 off 58 was a remarkable feat for him. In this innings, he hit 13 fours and a six. In this match, Pakistan batted first and set up a big total of 205 for 3 wickets and then defended the total successfully. 

4. 68* off 52 vs India (Dubai, 2021 – T20 World Cup): 

An unforgettable moment for Babar Azam and the Pakistan cricket team. With the help from Azam and Rizwan, they defeated their archrival India in the 2021 T20 World Cup by 10 wickets. 

5. 79* off 53 vs New Zealand (Christchurch, 2022): 

A perfect example of aggressive but composed batting. The conditions in Christchurch were not suitable for a subcontinent team. Pakistan lost a few wickets early in the run chase, but the star batter was there to drive them to claim a victory. Pakistan won the match by 6 wickets, chasing 147/8. 

Bracewell's destructive batting and Sears' five-wicket haul hand Pakistan a series shock at Bay Oval.
New Zealand completed a comprehensive ODI series performance by whitewashing a well-angled Pakistan side 3-0 with a 43-run victory in the decider played at Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui. The third ODI, reduced to 42 overs a side because of rain, witnessed a second-string Kiwi team outclass the visitors in all departments. New Zealand was asked to bat first and scored a competitive 264/8, Michael Bracewell's late fireworks proving crucial. Pakistan, in response, faltered under scoreboard pressure and was bowled out for 221 in 40 overs.

Naseem Shah gave Pakistan a strong start by dismissing Nick Kelly for just 3 runs early in the match. Young Rhys Mariu (58) and Henry Nicholls (31) then set up a strong foundation with a 78-run stand. Though Pakistan nibbled away at the middle overs with wickets-courtesy of Akif Javed and Sufiyan Muqeem—New Zealand captain Michael Bracewell turned the game around in the death overs. He hit 59 off 40 deliveries, taking advantage of a slow over-rate penalty that compelled Pakistan to bring in an additional fielder. His counterattack took New Zealand to a better-than-par 264/8.

NZ vs PAK 3rd ODI Highlights

New Zealand won the third match by 43 runs,

Pakistan whitewashed 3-0 in ODI series pic.twitter.com/kUUYAN0UKj

— RS KHATANA (@rskhatana72) April 5, 2025

 Pakistan Collapse In Spite of Babar and Rizwan's Resistance

Pakistan's pursuit started on a wobbly note when Imam-ul-Haq was forced to retire injured after being hit on the jaw by a throw. Abdullah Shafique's tail-end knock (33 off 56) contributed to the pressure as Pakistan's run rate suffered. Babar Azam was classy in his 50s and got some help from Mohammad Rizwan (37 off 32), but their fall spurred a collapse. Usman Khan, Salman Agha, and Faheem Ashraf all got out cheaply, while Tayyab Tahir provided a brief resistance with a 33-run cameo.

Ben Sears became New Zealand's bowling hero, destroying Pakistan's lower order with searing pace and accuracy. He returned career-best figures of 5/34, securing the 43-run win and clinching the series in style for the hosts. Pakistan were bowled out for 221 in 40 overs, well short of the target despite glimpses of promise.

This resounding series win will be remembered as a major statement from New Zealand, especially considering their depleted squad. Meanwhile, Pakistan will be left reeling from a clean sweep on foreign soil, with major questions looming over their middle-order consistency and game awareness in crunch moments.

Imam-ul-Haq Stretchered Off After Nasty Blow to Jaw During Pakistan vs New Zealand ODI

Sadly, in the middle of the action of the 3rd and final ODI match of the series between Pakistan and New Zealand at Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui, Imam ul Haq was hit on the jaw and suffered a painful injury. This happened when Pakistan was chasing a total of 265 runs put on the board by New Zealand.

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 Pakistani opener Imam was trying to sneak in a quick single when a throw from one of the New Zealand fielders hit him smack in the face. The ball hit his helmet grille and rounded off directly on the jaw, causing him immense pain. The on-field medical staff quickly moved to assist him and, after a little check, Imam ruptured the stretcher and was taken via buggy ambulance for scans.

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As has been documented, Imam got a concussion test done a while later and unfortunately did not pass. This meant that as a result he needed to come off the field, and so batter Usman Khan came in for him as a concussion substitute. At the moment Imam is in the medical tent and being treated. While not formally issued with a transfer to the hospital, it's a possibility depending on his further examinations.

 Watch: Pakistan’s Imam ul Haq retired hurt

Imam ul Haq retired hurt#PAKvNZ #PakistanCricket #Cricket pic.twitter.com/ulUYUzrPtx

— Urooj Jawed🇵🇰 (@uroojjawed12) April 5, 2025

This incident highlights the risks involved in the game, particularly during tight run situations, and the importance of proper protective gear. Fans and fellow cricketers have taken to social media to send prayers and wish Imam-ul-Haq a speedy recovery.

The second T20I between Pakistan and New Zealand will be played on March 21, 2025, at  Eden Park, Auckland. Having dominated the first T20I, New Zealand will seek to increase their lead, whereas Pakistan will hope to recover and tie the series

Match Details: NZ vs PAK 2nd T20I

• Match Date: March 21, 2025
• Venue:  Eden Park, Auckland
• Match Time: 11:45 AM IST (Indian Standard Time)

Live Streaming & Broadcast Details

Cricket fans can watch the match live through various broadcasting platforms:

For Viewers in India

• TV Broadcast: Sony Sports Network
• Live Streaming: Sony LIV app and website, FanCode app and website

For Viewers in Pakistan

• TV Broadcast: PTV Sports
• Live Streaming: ARY ZAP and Tamasha app

For Viewers in New Zealand

• TV Broadcast: Sky Sport NZ
• Live Streaming: Sky Go and Spark Sport

ALSO READ:NZ VS PAK 2ND T20I Match Live Streaming: Where & How to Watch on the tv and mobile online

NZ vs PAK Predicted Playing XI

PAK Playing XI

Hasan Nawaz, Abdul Samad, Mohammad Haris, Usman Khan, Agha Salman, Shadab Khan, Irfan Khan, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed, Sufiyan Muqeem

NZ Playing XI

Finn Allen, Tim Robinson, Daryl Mitchell, Mark Chapman, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Hay/ Tim Seifert, Jimmy Neesham, Jacob Duffy, Ish Sodhi, Will O Rourkee, Ben Sears

The second T20I between Pakistan and New Zealand will be played on March 18, 2025, at University Oval, Dunedin. Having dominated the first T20I, New Zealand will seek to increase their lead, whereas Pakistan will hope to recover and tie the series

Match Details: NZ vs PAK 2nd T20I

• Match Date: March 18, 2025
• Venue: University Oval, Dunedin
• Match Time: 6:45 AM IST (Indian Standard Time)

Live Streaming & Broadcast Details

Cricket fans can watch the match live through various broadcasting platforms:

For Viewers in India

• TV Broadcast: Sony Sports Network
• Live Streaming: Sony LIV app and website, FanCode app and website

For Viewers in Pakistan

• TV Broadcast: PTV Sports
• Live Streaming: ARY ZAP and Tamasha app

For Viewers in New Zealand

• TV Broadcast: Sky Sport NZ
• Live Streaming: Sky Go and Spark Sport

ALSO READ:NZ vs PAK Today Match Prediction – Who Will Win? | 2nd T20I, Preview & Analysis

NZ vs PAK Predicted Playing XI

PAK Playing XI

Hasan Nawaz, Abdul Samad, Mohammad Haris, Usman Khan, Agha Salman, Shadab Khan, Irfan Khan, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed, Sufiyan Muqeem

NZ Playing XI

Finn Allen, Tim Robinson, Daryl Mitchell, Mark Chapman, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Hay/ Tim Seifert, Jimmy Neesham, Jacob Duffy, Ish Sodhi, Will O Rourkee, Ben Sears

The second T20I of the Pakistan and New Zealand series will take place on Tuesday, with the match toss at 6:15 am (IST) and the game at 6:45 am (IST). The match will be played at the University Oval in Dunedin. The match will be telecast on the Sony Sports Network and will also be streamed live on the Sony LIV and Fancode website and apps.

Pakistan's Predicted Playing XI:

Mohammad Haris (Wicketkeeper), Hasan Nawaz, Salman Ali Agha (Captain), Irfan Khan Niazi, Shadab Khan (Vice-Captain), Abdul Samad, Khushdil Shah, Jahandad Khan, Shaheen Afridi, Mohammad Ali, Abrar Ahmed.

There are also debutants such as Hasan Nawaz, who can be expected to open the batting with Mohammad Haris. Abdul Samad, who has aggressive batting skills, could take Khushdil Shah's place in the lower order.

New Zealand's Predicted Playing XI:

Tim Seifert (Wicketkeeper), Finn Allen, Tim Robinson, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, Mitchell Hay (Wicketkeeper),Michael Bracewell (Captain), Zakary Foulkes, Kyle Jamieson, Ish Sodhi, Jacob Duffy.

New Zealand will probably have the same team that won the first game so convincingly

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Team Outlook:

New Zealand:  Following their comprehensive victory in the first game, New Zealand will look to take the series further in their favor. Tim Seifert, Finn Allen, and Michael Bracewell are likely to carry on with their impressive show.

Pakistan: Under pressure to even the series, Pakistan will most likely tinker with their lineup. Mohammad Haris, Hasan Nawaz, and Shadab Khan will have to rise to the challenge to take on the Black Caps.

The fans can expect a thrilling match as Pakistan looks to redeem themselves, while New Zealand hopes to continue their dominance in the series.

Pakistan will tour New Zealand for a T20I series, and the selection committee is likely to bring some new faces along with seasoned players. The team has a combination of all-rounders, pace bowlers, and hard-hitting batters.
The team has players such as Shadab Khan, Haris Rauf, and Sufiyan Muqeem, along with new faces like Irfan Khan and Jahandad Khan. Following is the likely squad:

Likely Squad

🚨Pakistan's likely T20I squad for New Zealand tour.

- Shadab, Haris, Sufiyan, Arafat, Irfan Khan, Zaman Khan, Wasim Jr, Abbas Afridi, Jahandad Khan, Agha Salman, Abrar, Omair Bin Yousuf, Khushdil, Hassan Nawaz, Ali Raza, Abdul Samad, Akif Javed and Khawaja Nafay. pic.twitter.com/gKNp0Uci1s

— Salman 🇵🇰 (@SalmanAsif2007) March 2, 2025

ALSO SEE: Shreyas Iyer vs Babar Azam in ICC Events:

This team represents Pakistan's plan to strike a balance between inexperience and experience. Having youth players included means that the management has the strategy of developing future stars well before big events.
Pakistan will be looking for a good outing against New Zealand, and people cannot wait to witness how this team fares

The much-awaited ICC Champions Trophy 2025 started with the Group A match between the hosts and defending champions Pakistan and New Zealand at the National Stadium in Karachi on Wednesday (February 19). New Zealand started the tournament with a 60-run win. 

After Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan chose to field first, New Zealand scored 320/5 in 50 overs, and the hosts replied with 260 all out. Now, we are going through some key records of the tournament opener. 

ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Key Match Stats of Pakistan vs New Zealand

Will Young and Tom Latham guide New Zealand to big total

• New Zealand batters Will Young and Tom Latham hit centuries. It was the fifth time in ICC Champions Trophy history with two centuries in an innings. 
• Tom Latham (118*) became the third wicketkeeper-batter to record a century in ICC Champions Trophy history. The other two names are Zimbabwean Andy Flower (145 vs India in 2002) and Sri Lankan Kumar Sangakkara (134* vs England in 2013).
• With his 118*, Tom Latham recorded the second highest individual score by a New Zealand batter in ICC Champions Trophy history. The record is 145* by Nathan Astle against the USA at The Oval in the 2004 edition.
• New Zealand scored 320/5 in 50 overs. It was their second highest total in ICC Champions Trophy history. Their record is 347/4 against the USA in the 2004 The Oval match. Meanwhile, New Zealand’s 320/5 was the seventh highest total in ICC Champions Trophy history.
• New Zealand’s 320/5 was the second highest total for a team against the hosts in the ICC Champions Trophy history. The record is 323/8 by England against the hosts South Africa at Centurion during the 2009 edition. 

See Also: New Zealand create ICC Champions Trophy history with twin centuries

Pakistan pacer Haris Rauf had a forgetable outing

• Pakistan pacer Haris Rauf ended with the bowling figures of 10-0-83-2. It was the most runs conceded by a hosts’ bowler in main ICC ODI tournament history (ICC ODI World Cup and ICC Champions Trophy). Previously, English bowler Paul Allott (1/82 against Sri Lanka in the ICC Cricket World Cup 1983), New Zealand bowler Tim Southee (2/82 against West Indies in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015), and English bowler Jake Ball (1/82 against Bangladesh in the ICC Champions Trophy 2017) jointly held the record.
• With his 2 for 83 runs bowling figures, Haris Rauf recorded the second most expensive bowling figures by a Pakistan bowler (Wahab Riaz 8.4-0-87-0 vs India in 2017) and the joint fourth most expensive bowling figures among the overall bowlers in ICC Champions Trophy history. 

Pakistan very slow start

• With 22/2, Pakistan recorded their lowest-ever first 10 overs score in a home ODI.

Khushdil Shah broke Champions Trophy record against New Zealand

• Pakistan batter Khushdil Shah completed his 50 runs in 38 balls. It was the fastest half-century record against New Zealand in ICC Champions Trophy history. English legend Alastair Cook was the previous record holder with a 39-ball fifty during the 2013 edition. 

Pakistan suffered a record defeat

• Pakistan lost the match by 60 runs. It was the largest defeat (by runs) for the hosts in ICC Champions Trophy history. The previous record was South Africa losing by 55 runs against Sri Lanka during the 2009 edition.
• New Zealand have won all their four matches against Pakistan in ICC Champions Trophy history. 

Date: Wednesday, February 19, 2025

Toss: Pakistan won the toss and opted to bowl

Time: 2:30 PM

Venue: National Stadium, Karachi

Pakistan Playing XI: Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Md. Rizwan ( C & WK ), Salman Agha, Tayyab Tahir, Khushdil Shah, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed

New Zealand Playing XI: Devon Conway, Will Young, Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham ( wk ) , Glenn Philips, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner ( C ) , Nathan Smith, Matt Henry, William ORourke

Pakistan has not had an easy time against New Zealand in the past ten days, losing three successive matches in crucial games. The Kiwis have been in great shape, dominating Pakistan in every department. Here's a brief rundown of how events went:

Pakistan in the last 10 days against New Zealand:

8th Feb - NZ beat PAK in Tri series.

14th Feb - NZ beat PAK in Tri series Final.

19th Feb - NZ beat PAK in Champions Trophy.

- THE DOMINATION OF NEW ZEALAND..!!!! pic.twitter.com/C7MB5fuI0B

— Tanuj Singh (@ImTanujSingh) February 19, 2025

ALSO SEE: Pat Cummins Withdraws from MLC 2025 Due to Workload and Injury Concerns

February 8, 2025 – Tri-Series Match
The series opened with New Zealand posting a record 331, aided by a fantastic 106* by Glenn Phillips. Pakistan resisted with Fakhar Zaman's 84 but fell short and were bowled out for 252. Black Caps are off to a good start.
February 14, 2025 – Tri-Series Final
Pakistan got an opportunity to get their revenge in the final but their batting failed once again, scoring just 242 runs. New Zealand chased it easily, with Tom Latham and Daryl Mitchell guiding them to a five-wicket win.
February 19, 2025 – Champions Trophy Group Match
The biggest stage, but the same outcome. New Zealand maintained their winning streak against Pakistan, claiming another win and showing their dominance.
The Takeaway
Three losses, three games – it has not been a good period for Pakistan. New Zealand, on the other hand, have demonstrated why they are amongst the most consistent sides in world cricket. Pakistan will have to regroup and return stronger in their upcoming games.