Azhar Ali: The Backbone of Pakistan's Top-Order Batting

Azhar Ali, born on 19 February 1985, is one of Pakistan's most accomplished top-order batters. Known for his solid technique and consistent performances, he played a pivotal role in Pakistan's cricket success during the last decade. As a right-handed batter and a right-arm leg-break bowler, Azhar Ali represented Pakistan in Tests and One-Day Internationals (ODIs) from 2010 to 2022. He also captained the ODI and Test sides and left an indelible mark on Pakistan cricket history.

Quick Profile & Career Overview

Category	Details
Full Name	Azhar Ali
Nickname	Ajju
Date of Birth	19 February 1985
Age	40
Birthplace	Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan
Height	5 ft 10 in (178 cm)
Batting Style	Right-handed
Bowling Style	Right-arm leg break
Role	Top-order Batter
National Side	Pakistan (2010–2022)
Domestic Teams	Khan Research Laboratories, Lahore Qalandars, Somerset, Worcestershire, Central Punjab
ODI Shirt No.	79

Early Life and Background

Azhar Ali was born on 19 February 1985 in Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan. Growing up in Lahore, he showed a keen interest in cricket from a young age. His journey in cricket began as a leg-spinner, but his passion for batting gradually took precedence. Trained under the guidance of local coaches, Azhar honed his skills as a top-order batter and made his mark in domestic cricket.

Domestic and Franchise Career

Early Domestic Career

Azhar Ali made his first-class debut in 2002 at the age of 16, playing for Khan Research Laboratories (KRL). Initially a leg-spinner, his potential as a batter became evident with his consistent performances. Over time, he became a prominent top-order batter, helping his team win crucial matches.

Domestic Career Highlights

Season	Team	Matches	Runs Scored	Average	Top Score
2007-08	Khan Research Laboratories	8	503	50.25	120
2008-09	Khan Research Laboratories	11	788	35	99
2019-23	Central Punjab	30	1,879	42	185
2022-23	Worcestershire	10	879	54.94	145

County Cricket

In 2018, Azhar Ali signed with Somerset to play in the County Championship. His first match for Somerset was a memorable one as he scored a century against Worcestershire. Later in 2022, he joined Worcestershire, replacing the injured Matthew Wade. His impressive county career showcased his adaptability to English conditions and his ability to anchor innings.

Pakistan Super League (PSL) Career

Azhar Ali captained the Lahore Qalandars in the inaugural season of PSL in 2016. Although the team struggled to make an impact, Azhar's leadership and consistency as a batter earned him respect among peers and fans alike.

International Career

Test Career

Azhar Ali made his Test debut on 13 July 2010 against Australia at Lord's. Despite a modest start, his technique and temperament quickly earned him a reputation as a dependable Test batter. He went on to become a pillar of Pakistan’s middle order, scoring 7,142 runs in 97 matches at an average of 42.26.

Test Career Highlights

• First Test Century: Scored 100 against Sri Lanka in October 2011.
• Triple Century: Scored 302 not out against West Indies in October 2016, becoming the first player to score a triple century in a Day-Night Test.
• Double Century: Scored 226 against Bangladesh at Dhaka in 2015.
• Consistent Performances: Notched up 19 centuries and 35 fifties in his Test career.

ODI Career

Azhar Ali made his ODI debut on 30 May 2011 against Ireland. Though primarily considered a Test specialist, Azhar adapted well to the 50-over format, scoring 1,845 runs in 53 matches at an average of 36.90. He also captained the team during a challenging phase.

Notable ODI Achievements

• First ODI Century: Scored 101 against Bangladesh in April 2015.
• Highest ODI Score: 102 against Zimbabwe in May 2015.
• Captaincy: Led Pakistan to victory in the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy, defeating arch-rivals India in the final.

T20 International Career

Although Azhar Ali did not have a significant T20I career, he did participate in domestic T20 leagues like PSL and various county tournaments. His calm and composed nature made him more suited to the longer formats of the game.

Batting Records and Milestones

Azhar Ali’s illustrious career is marked by several remarkable achievements and records:

Test Records

Statistic	Details
Matches Played	97
Total Runs Scored	7,142
Batting Average	42.26
Highest Score	302* (vs. West Indies)
Centuries/Fifties	19/35
Most Runs in an Innings	302* (First Triple Century in Day-Night Tests)

ODI Records

Statistic	Details
Matches Played	53
Total Runs Scored	1,845
Batting Average	36.9
Highest Score	102 (vs. Zimbabwe)
Centuries/Fifties	3/12

Leadership and Captaincy

Azhar Ali captained the Pakistan ODI team after Misbah-ul-Haq's retirement. His leadership came under scrutiny during tough series losses against teams like England and Australia. Nevertheless, his captaincy saw glimpses of brilliance, particularly in the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy, where Pakistan emerged as champions.

Retirement and Legacy

Azhar Ali retired from ODIs in 2018 and from Test cricket in 2022. After retirement, he was appointed as the Head of Youth Development at PCB, mentoring young talent and guiding the next generation of cricketers.

Personal Life and Beyond Cricket

Azhar Ali's father, Muhammad Rafiq, is also an athlete who won a gold medal in a 21 KM marathon at the age of 76. Azhar has a cricket academy in Lahore's Valancia Town, aimed at nurturing young talent. His son, Ibtisam Azhar, is also a budding cricketer. Azhar Ali remains an inspiration to young cricketers worldwide. His journey from a leg-spinner to a prolific top-order batter highlights his dedication and passion for the game. Known for his calm demeanor and solid technique, Azhar Ali has etched his name in Pakistan cricket history. As a player, captain, and mentor, his legacy continues to impact the cricketing fraternity positively.