Azhar Ali is a former Pakistan Test and ODI captain, born in Lahore in 1985, who played international cricket from 2010 to 2022. He scored over 7,000 Test runs, including a triple century, and is now part of the Pakistan Cricket Board’s selection committee.
Personal Profile
- Full Name: Azhar Ali
- Born: 19 February 1985, Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan
- Age: 41 years (as of March 2026)
- Height: 5 ft 10 in (178 cm)
- Batting Style: Right‑handed
- Bowling Style: Right‑arm leg break
- Role: Top‑order batter
- Nickname: Ajju
Azhar Ali Statistics
| Format | Matches | Runs | Bat Avg | 100s/50s | Highest Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tests | 97 | 7,142 | 42.3 | 19/35 | 302* |
| ODIs | 53 | 1,845 | 36.9 | 3/12 | 102 |
| First‑Class | 262 | 16,327 | 39.1 | 50/69 | 302* |
| List A | 181 | 6,674 | 46.3 | 18/38 | 133 |
Career Highlights
- Test Debut: vs Australia, July 2010 (Lord’s).
- ODI Debut: vs Ireland, May 2011.
- Triple Century: 302* vs West Indies in Dubai (2016), one of Pakistan’s few Test triple centuries.
- Captaincy: Led Pakistan in ODIs (2015–2017) and Tests (2016–2017).
- County Cricket: Played for Somerset and Worcestershire, excelling in English conditions.
- Retirement: Last Test vs England, December 2022.
- Post‑Career Role: Member of PCB’s Men’s National Selection Committee.
Style of Play
- Batting: Compact technique, patient, reliable at the top order.
- Temperament: Calm and disciplined, often anchoring Pakistan’s innings.
- Strengths: Long innings, ability to grind bowlers, especially in Tests.
Legacy
Azhar Ali is remembered as one of Pakistan’s most dependable Test batters of the 2010s. His triple century and consistent performances in challenging overseas conditions cemented his reputation. As captain, he provided stability during transitional phases, and today he continues to shape Pakistan cricket through his role as a selector.
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