Babar Azam matches Kohli’s disappointing record after Sri Lanka setback

In what can only be described as a bitter disappointment for Pakistani cricket fans, Babar Azam’s drought for an international century reached an unfortunate milestone during the first ODI against Sri Lanka.

Scoring just 29 runs before being clean bowled by Hasaranga, Babar now shares a rather discouraging record with India’s Virat Kohli both have gone 83 innings without scoring an international century.

This extended wait for a century has become a topic of concern, especially as Babar, once known for his consistency and elegance at the crease, struggles to break through this frustrating barrier.

Virat Kohli, who had faced a similar struggle, ended his century drought in 2023 after 83 innings, making the comparison even more glaring.

Other cricketing greats, including Sri Lanka’s former head coach Sanath Jayasuriya, have also faced lengthy waits for centuries, with Jayasuriya managing to score one after 88 innings. Former West Indian star Shivnarine Chanderpaul, too, waited 78 innings for his next century.

Babar’s last international century came during the 2023 Asia Cup against Nepal, and since then, his form has been worrying, particularly in key matches.

Despite his undeniable talent, the lack of a century in recent innings is becoming a cause of concern, not only for Babar himself but for Pakistan’s cricketing future as well.

The wait continues for the stylish batter to regain his form and deliver another memorable century for his nation.