Fakhar Zaman’s record among Pakistan’s top 6 ODI run-scorers is truly impressive
They faced each other in the warm-up to the Champions Trophy in a triangular series that also featured South Africa, and now they are set to do battle again — this time in New Zealand.
As Pakistan gears up for the challenge against the Black Caps, it’s a good time to look at the batting records in this historic rivalry.
Over the years, several Pakistan greats have made their mark against New Zealand in ODIs. Among them, six players have crossed the 1,000-run mark in the 119 ODIs played between the two nations.
Notably, one of these players is still active and will be eager to climb up the rankings in the upcoming series. Let’s take a look at Pakistan’s all-time leading run-scorers against New Zealand in ODI cricket.
6. Babar Azam – 1,009 runs from 23 ODIs with a high score of 107 at an average of 48.04
The only active player on this list, Babar Azam has already scored over 1,000 runs against New Zealand, and at the rate he is going, he could soon be challenging the top names. Babar’s elegant stroke play and ability to construct innings have made him a key performer in this rivalry.
His highest score of 107 came in 2023, a brilliant knock that showcased his class and ability to dominate the Black Caps’ attack. Given his current form and his hunger for big runs, there’s a good chance that Babar will climb even higher on this list before the current three match series comes to an end.
5. Saleem Malik – 1,054 runs from 43 ODIs with a high score of 83 and an average of 34.00
A mainstay of Pakistan’s batting in the 1980s and 1990s, controversial former captain Saleem Malik was a stylish middle-order batsman known for his ability to pace an innings.
While he never managed a century against New Zealand, his consistent performances helped Pakistan achieve many victories over the years. His best innings, an 83-run knock, may not seem huge in today’s era, but back in the day, it formed the cornerstone of a challenging total that was almost enough to secure a win.
4. Fakhar Zaman – 1,077 runs from 20 ODIs with a high score of 180 at an average of 63.35
Fakhar Zaman has one of the best averages on this list, and his impact against New Zealand has been nothing short of spectacular. The explosive left-hander had a knack for scoring big runs quickly, and his highest score of 180 not out remains one of the most dominant performances in this rivalry.
Fakhar’s ability to take the game away from the opposition within a few overs made him a dangerous batter against the Black Caps. While he is still playing, he is not part of the current tour and his fractious relationship with the cricket authorities in Pakistan means it’s never clear when he will be playing again.
3. Shahid Afridi – 1,078 runs from 38 ODIs with a high score of 108 at an average of 32.66
When it comes to entertainment, there are very few players who can match Shahid Afridi. The explosive all-rounder often took the New Zealand bowlers apart with his aggressive stroke play.
His highest score of 108 not out was a trademark Afridi innings, featuring towering sixes and rapid scoring. Though his average of 32.66 is not the highest, his ability to change the course of a game in minutes made him one of Pakistan’s most dangerous batters in this rivalry. Known as ‘Boom Boom’ for his explosive repertoire of hitting, Afridi had the ability to clear the boundaries even when mistiming shots.
2. Saeed Anwar – 1,260 runs from 32 ODIs with a high score of 113 and an average of 45.00
One of the most elegant left-handed openers Pakistan has ever produced, Saeed Anwar had a brilliant record against New Zealand. His effortless stroke play and ability to anchor an innings made him a nightmare for bowlers.
Anwar’s highest score of 113* was a perfectly paced innings, full of delightful cover drives and smart placement. His impressive average of 45.00 highlights how consistent he was against the Black Caps throughout his career.
1. Inzamam-ul-Haq – 1,283 runs from 45 ODIs with a high score of 137 and an average of 34.67
At the top of the list is none other than Inzamam-ul-Haq, Pakistan’s legendary middle-order batsman and former skipper. His 1,283 runs in 45 matches make him the most prolific Pakistani run-scorer against New Zealand in ODIs. Inzamam was known for his ability to chase down targets with calmness and composure.
His highest score of 137* came in a match-winning effort, where he dominated the Kiwi bowlers with his elegant stroke play. While his average of 34.67 isn’t the highest on this list, his ability to deliver in crucial moments and win games for Pakistan makes him the standout performer in this rivalry.
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