Babar Azam Shatters Records with Fastest Century in PSL History
Babar Azam's Record-Breaking Performance
In a stunning display of batting, Peshawar Zalmi's captain, Babar Azam, achieved his quickest century in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) against the Quetta Gladiators, reaching the milestone in just 52 balls. His innings included six fours and four sixes, resulting in an impressive strike rate of 192.31. Remarkably, he faced only one dot ball during his innings on April 19 at the National Stadium in Karachi. This century marks Babar's 12th in T20 cricket, placing him second only to the legendary Chris Gayle, who holds the record with 22 T20 centuries. Additionally, this was Babar's third century in the PSL, tying him with Usman Khan, Kamran Akmal, and Rilee Rossouw for the most PSL centuries, each having three.
Babar Matches Virat Kohli's Milestone
Peshawar Zalmi posted a formidable total of 255/3, bolstered by a significant 135-run partnership between Babar and Kusal Mendis. This partnership marked Babar's 47th century partnership in T20s, equaling the record held by Indian cricket star Virat Kohli. Babar has now surpassed Chris Gayle, who has 46 such partnerships. Furthermore, Babar has crossed the 400-run mark in PSL for the sixth time in his career, currently ranking second among the top run scorers of PSL 2026, just behind his teammate Mendis. After a lengthy wait of 67 innings, Babar finally ended his T20 century drought, despite facing criticism regarding his strike rate and position in the batting order. His previous season in the Big Bash League with the Sydney Sixers was also underwhelming.
Alongside Babar, Mendis contributed significantly with a score of 83 off 44 balls. Zalmi's total of 255/3 is their highest in PSL history and the third-highest overall in the league. The Gladiators struggled in their chase, ultimately bowled out for just 137 runs in 18.1 overs, resulting in a 118-run defeat. This victory secured Zalmi's position in the top two of the league standings, maintaining their unbeaten streak this season under Babar's leadership.