Cricket is a game of passion and rivalry. Babar Azam vs. Virat Kohli: this rivalry is as intense and captivating as the captains and batting stars of Pakistan and India, respectively.
Both players have been dominating the international cricket scene for the past few years, breaking records and winning accolades with their consistent and brilliant performances. But who is the better batsman? How do they compare in different formats, conditions, and situations? And what makes them so special and unique? In this article, we will try to answer these questions and more by analyzing their statistics, strengths, weaknesses, and personalities.
Table of Contents
Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli: The numbers
The first thing that comes to mind when comparing two batsmen is their numbers. How many runs have they scored? What is their average? How many centuries have they had? How do they fare against different oppositions and in different venues? These are some of the criteria that can help us measure their batting prowess and achievements. Let us look at some of the key statistics of Babar Azam and Virat Kohli across all three formats of the game:
| | Format | Matches | Runs | Average | Strike Rate | 100s | 50s | |
| |——–|———|——|———|————-|——|—–| |
| | Tests | Babar | 37 | 2295 | 44.22 | 63.7 | 5 | 18 | |
| | | Kohli | 96 | 7765 | 51.69 | 57.1 | 27 | 25 | |
| | ODIs | Babar | 80 | 3985 | 56.92 | 93.3 | 14 | 18 | |
| | | Kohli | 254 | 12169 | 59.07 | 93.2 | 43 | 62 | |
| | T20Is | Babar | 59 | 2166 | 47.93 | 129.7| 1 | 21 | |
| | | Kohli | 90 | 3159 | 52.65 | 138.4 |0 | 28 | |
As we can see from the table, both batsmen have impressive numbers in all formats, but there are some notable differences as well. Kohli has played more matches than Babar in all formats, which means he has more experience and exposure at the highest level. He also has more runs, centuries, and a higher average than Babar in Tests and ODIs, which shows his consistency and longevity in the longer formats. However, Babar has a slight edge over Kohli in T20Is, where he has a higher average, strike rate, and one more century than Kohli. This indicates that Babar is more suited to the shortest format, where he can play with more aggression and flair.
Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli: The personalities
Another aspect that can differentiate two batsmen is their personalities. How do they handle the pressure? How do they motivate themselves and their teammates? How do they react to failures and successes? How do they deal with criticism and praise? These are some of the questions that can reveal their character and attitude towards the game and life in general.
Babar Azam is known for his calmness and composure on and off the field. He rarely shows any emotions or expressions while batting or leading his team. He is focused, determined, and disciplined in his approach to cricket. He does not let external factors affect his performance or mindset. He is humble, respectful, and polite to his opponents, fans, and media.
Virat Kohli is known for his passion and intensity on and off the field. He often shows his emotions and expressions while batting or leading his team. He is aggressive, confident, and competitive in his approach to cricket. He does not shy away from challenges or confrontations. He is outspoken, honest, and bold toward his opponents, fans, and media. He is also a fitness freak who follows a strict diet and workout regime to keep himself in shape.
Both batsmen have different personalities, but they share some common traits as well. They are both hardworking, dedicated, and ambitious in their pursuit of excellence. They are both role models for millions of young cricketers around the world who aspire to emulate them. They are both leaders who inspire their teams with their performances and words.
Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli: The opinions
What do other cricketers think about Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli? How do they rate them as batsmen and as captains? Here are some of the opinions of famous cricketers about Babar and Virat:
“Babar Azam is one of the best in the world right now. He has got a great game plan. He knows his strengths and weaknesses. He plays with a lot of confidence and flair.” – Kane Williamson
“Virat Kohli is a nightmare for bowlers nowadays. He is supremely fit; he looks good. He enjoys his fielding and he does whatever a leader is supposed to do.” – Wasim Akram
The Verdict: Babar vs Virat Showdown
So, who is the better batsman between Babar Azam and Virat Kohli? The answer is not easy, as both are exceptional players who have achieved remarkable feats in their careers. They have different styles, skills, and personalities, but they share a common passion for cricket and a hunger for runs.
Perhaps, the best way to conclude this comparison is to appreciate both of them for their contributions to the game and enjoy their batting while they are still playing. As cricket fans, we are lucky to witness two of the greatest batsmen of this generation in action, and we should celebrate their greatness rather than compare them.
As Sachin Tendulkar once said, “Don’t compare players, enjoy them.”
If you are Interested in Babar Azam’s World Cup performance? Read this article for all the insights.
Want to know more about the statistics of Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli, check out this article.
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