Let’s be clear, consistency in T20 cricket is often undervalued. While innings that are here today and gone tomorrow are often newsworthy events in T20 cricket, the players who display the most consistency from year to year and match to match are reliable, consistent performers. Today, we are interested in a statistic that is not talked about enough but has a wonderful narrative—most innings as a batsman in PSL history.
Babar Azam: The King of Consistency
Babar Azam has played 96 innings between 2016-2025, the most of any player in PSL history. That is not just a number; that tells you about outstanding longevity. Babar has long been labeled the “anchor” of Pakistan’s batting, and based on his elite performance in the PSL, it’s hard to argue. He has averaged 44.36 with a strike rate of 126.44, which means he is always among the runs, always scoring, and always being the rock of his team.
It’s impossible to overlook the worth of someone who makes it look so routine. But nonetheless, having recorded 35 fifties in 96 innings, Babar is certainly producing, rather than just showing up. Competing for three franchises (Islamabad United, Karachi Kings, Peshawar Zalmi), plus being a run-scoring machine that has adapted to each setup and has demonstrated professionalism at the next level.
Fakhar Zaman: The Blaze That Keeps Burning
With 93 innings separating him from Babar Azam in terms of runs, Fakhar Zaman is as flamboyant, aggressive, and unpredictable as you can get in PSL. From 2017-2025, he was always going to be part of the top three for the Qalandars, and always good for your entertainment dollar, with no disappointments. He scored 2834 runs at a better strike rate than Babar (141.55) and hit 122 sixes. His innings are never dull.
But don’t let the fireworks fool you; there are strains behind the gloss. Fakhar has had some indifferent periods, but his resilience to fight through seasons is a strong character. Yes, his average of 30.80 does not inspire extremes of consistency, but then that is not supposed to be his role: as a hitter who is willing to ‘fail’ if it means he is maximizing the chance for his team to win.
Shoaib Malik: The Evergreen Warrior
Next, we have Shoaib Malik—the ageless wonder of the PSL. He has had 88 innings in 93 matches, and to journey through the PSL from Karachi Kings to Quetta Gladiators is admirable. Even at the age of 40+, he has a strike rate of 127.78 and an average of 33.09, which speaks volumes to his fitness, understanding of the game, and ability to adapt his game.
Malik has done it all—batting and fielding in any position in the batting order, bailing teams out from destruction, finishing matches as well as between overs if required. Malik does not have a PSL hundred, but the twelve fifties he provided to the match document go to show he has been a reliable middle-order player for ages.
In a league where seasons are short and players’ careers even shorter, Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, and Shoaib Malik have used their path to eventually define the ‘norm.’ They have not only experienced the most innings but have also played and led the way by adapting to the ever-changing world of T20 cricket. It is one thing to be good for a season; it is another to be good for nine years in a row.
Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.
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