For Pakistan’s cricket fans, the sight of Babar Azam walking back to the pavilion for just 29 runs in the first ODI against Sri Lanka in Rawalpindi was yet another bitter pill to swallow. The stylish right-hander, known for his elegant stroke play and consistency, has now gone 83 consecutive innings without a century, equalling Virat Kohli’s infamous record for the second-longest drought in international cricket history.
Babar’s last century came against Nepal in 2023. Since then, he has amassed 20 fifties in 83 innings — a remarkable feat in consistency — but the inability to reach three figures has become a talking point. His highest score in this period, 81, is a stark reminder that he has been unable to convert starts into monumental innings. In Rawalpindi, Babar appeared composed early on, but Hasaranga’s deceptive googly dismantled his innings in the 24th over, leaving the fans longing for his trademark brilliance.
Despite Babar’s modest contribution, Pakistan managed to set a competitive total of 299 for 5, thanks largely to Salman Ali Agha’s century. Sri Lanka came close in reply, finishing on 293 for 9, but Pakistan claimed victory in a nail-biting series opener.
Babar’s current predicament draws parallels with Virat Kohli’s slump between 2019 and 2022. Kohli went 83 innings without a century, spanning nearly three years, before finally reaching triple figures again. During that time, Babar had shown solidarity with the Indian superstar, posting encouraging messages on social media. Ironically, Babar now finds himself in the same unenviable position, fighting to break the psychological and statistical barrier that has held him back.
The global record for the longest gap between centuries is held by Sanath Jayasuriya, who endured an 88-innings wait. With Babar and Kohli now tied on 83, they jointly occupy second place, with Shivnarine Chanderpaul of the West Indies trailing on 78. Jayasuriya, now Sri Lanka’s head coach, was reportedly celebrating in the dugout as Babar fell — a small moment of levity amidst a tense game.
The upcoming second ODI in Rawalpindi represents an opportunity for Babar to silence critics, lift his confidence, and finally return to the form that has made him one of Pakistan’s most dependable batsmen. All eyes will be on him as Pakistan aims to extend their winning streak in the series.