Thu Feb 20 10:58:36 UTC 2025: ## Babar Azam Joins Elite Club with 100th ODI Fifty, But Pakistan Falls Short Against New Zealand

**Karachi, Pakistan –** Pakistan captain Babar Azam achieved a significant personal milestone in his team’s Champions Trophy opener against New Zealand on Wednesday, becoming only the second Pakistani batsman to reach 100 half-centuries in international cricket. However, his 64-run knock off 90 balls, including 52 dot balls, couldn’t prevent Pakistan’s defeat.

Azam, who now boasts 31 international centuries, joins legendary former captain Inzamam-ul-Haq in this exclusive club. Globally, he is the 21st player to achieve the feat, trailing Sachin Tendulkar (164 fifties) and Kumar Sangakkara (153) who lead the all-time list. Inzamam holds the Pakistan record with 129 fifties.

Despite the milestone, Azam’s innings was considered underwhelming given the challenging chase of 321 runs. His slow start, reaching his fifty off 81 deliveries, hampered Pakistan’s pursuit, leaving them needing stronger contributions from the likes of Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan, and Tayyab Tahir. Pakistan’s sluggish powerplay, yielding only 22 runs with two wickets down, further contributed to their defeat.

New Zealand’s impressive total was built on centuries from Will Young and Tom Latham, alongside a rapid fifty from Glenn Phillips. Pakistan now faces a crucial match against India on Sunday.

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