Pakistan cricket has experienced a rollercoaster year in 2025, with highs and lows across formats. After exiting the Champions Trophy in the group stage, securing success in the Tri-Nation series, and finishing as runners-up in the Asia Cup, the spotlight fell on Pakistan’s T20 captain Salman Ali Aga, who made history by setting a world record.
Under Aga’s leadership, Pakistan remains unbeaten in the ongoing T20 Tri-Series. Despite not being in peak batting form, with a modest strike rate of 113 in T20s, his captaincy has been impeccable. Yet, it is his personal milestone that has captured global attention: he has played 54 international matches in 2025, surpassing legendary Indian cricketers MS Dhoni (2007) and Rahul Dravid (1999), who had each played 53 matches in a calendar year.
| Year | Player | Matches Played |
|---|---|---|
| 1999 | Rahul Dravid | 53 |
| 2007 | MS Dhoni | 53 |
| 2025 | Salman Ali Aga | 54 |
This tally includes 5 Tests, 17 ODIs, and 32 T20Is. While T20 batting form has been inconsistent, Aga has impressed in ODIs and Tests, scoring 667 runs in 17 ODIs and 277 runs in 5 Tests. His leadership has ensured Pakistan’s success and sustained unbeaten streak in T20 matches.
This achievement cements Salman Ali Aga’s status as the record-holder for most international matches played in a single calendar year, marking a bright spot in Pakistan cricket during a year of fluctuating fortunes.
Khaborwala/SJ
