Babar Azam Approaches Two ODI Milestones
Babar Azam is close to becoming the second-fastest player to score 20 centuries in One-Day International (ODI) cricket as Pakistan returns to Faisalabad’s Iqbal Stadium after 17 years for a series against South Africa.
Race to 20 ODI Centuries
With 19 centuries in 131 innings, Babar needs a century in either of his next two innings to surpass Virat Kohli and become the second-fastest to reach 20 ODI hundreds. Currently, only Hashim Amla has achieved this faster, reaching 20 centuries in 108 innings, while Kohli did it in 133.
Significance of the Faisalabad Series
The three-match ODI series is notable both for its competitive importance and the venue, as international cricket returns to the historic Iqbal Stadium. The last ODI played there was in April 2008 against Bangladesh.
Venue Condition Concerns
The Iqbal Stadium has faced significant neglect over the years despite its historical significance. According to a report by Dawn.com, documents obtained through the Punjab Transparency and Right to Information Act revealed that the Iqbal Stadium Management Committee (ISMC), which manages the stadium independently from the Pakistan Cricket Board and the Punjab Sports Board, generates over PKR 63 million (approx. US$223,000) annually but spends only PKR 30 million on maintenance.
"The Iqbal Stadium Management Committee (ISMC) earns over PKR 63 million annually but spends just PKR 30 million despite the venue's historical importance."
Looking Ahead
This series not only provides a platform for Babar Azam’s personal milestones but also highlights the need for better maintenance of cricket infrastructure in Pakistan.
Author’s summary: Babar Azam is poised to break key ODI century records as international cricket returns to Faisalabad’s neglected Iqbal Stadium after 17 years, spotlighting both his achievements and infrastructural challenges.
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