Cricket is more than just a sport; it’s a passion that unites millions of fans worldwide. Among the many cricketers who have made their mark on the game, two names that stand out are Babar Azam and Virat Kohli. Both players are regarded as two of the best batsmen in modern-day cricket. However, a fierce debate has been ongoing among cricket fans: Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli, who is truly the better player?

In this article, we will conduct a detailed Babar Azam and Virat Kohli career comparison, evaluate their strengths and weaknesses, and analyze who deserves the title of the No. 1 batsman. Let’s dive deeper into the world of these two cricketing legends.

Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli: The Legacy of Two Kings

Babar Azam is King, Virat Kohli was King

Before we delve into the numbers, it’s important to recognize that both players have achieved greatness in their careers. Babar Azam is King and is currently leading the charge in world cricket, especially in limited-overs formats. However, Virat Kohli was King for several years, holding the mantle as one of the top batsmen in the world.

While Virat Kohli has dominated world cricket for over a decade, Babar Azam has been rapidly rising through the ranks. Today, many cricket experts and fans consider Babar to be the future of cricket, and in certain aspects, he may already be the superior player.

Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli Career Comparison

Batting Style

• Babar Azam: Known for his elegant and stylish batting, Babar’s technique is widely regarded as one of the best in modern cricket. His ability to play on both sides of the wicket, along with his exceptional footwork and timing, makes him a dangerous opponent.
• Virat Kohli: Virat is known for his aggressive approach to batting and his ability to chase down difficult targets. He has been a master in all formats, from T20s to Tests, and his adaptability to various situations has set him apart.

Key Stats

Let’s take a look at some key statistics that highlight the difference between these two cricketers.

Format	Babar Azam	Virat Kohli
ODI Matches Played	98	274
Runs Scored (ODI)	5100+	12800+
Test Matches Played	47	108
Runs Scored (Test)	3800+	8000+
T20I Matches Played	75	115
Runs Scored (T20I)	2600+	3800+
Average (ODI)	54.00	59.07
Average (Test)	45.00	53.41
Average (T20I)	50.00	52.04

Match Impact & Consistency

• Babar Azam has been consistent across all formats, with an impressive batting average in both ODI and T20 cricket. His ability to anchor the innings, while also accelerating when needed, is a hallmark of his style.
• Virat Kohli has been a prolific run-scorer across formats. Despite a slight dip in his form in recent years, he remains one of the most dangerous players in world cricket. His consistency in chasing targets and his ability to score centuries make him a formidable opponent.

Records & Milestones

• Babar Azam holds several records, including the fastest to 1000 runs in ODIs for Pakistan and is currently one of the top-ranked batsmen in the world.
• Virat Kohli has set numerous records in all formats. He is the fastest to 8000, 9000, and 10000 runs in ODIs and has multiple centuries to his name across all formats.

Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli: The Cover Drive Showdown

One of the most admired shots in cricket is the cover drive, a shot that requires perfect timing, balance, and placement. When it comes to the Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli cover drive, both players have mastered this art.

• Babar Azam has often been praised for his exquisite cover drive, which looks elegant and smooth. His timing and placement on the front foot, especially when driving through the covers, are unmatched in world cricket.
• Virat Kohli, on the other hand, has a more aggressive cover drive, often hitting the ball with power and precision. While his drive is equally beautiful, it’s more focused on execution and power than the elegance that Babar exudes.

Both players have established their credentials with this shot, but Babar’s cover drive stands out for its graceful timing.

Who is No. 1 – Babar Azam or Virat Kohli?

When it comes to the question, Who is No. 1 – Babar Azam or Virat Kohli?, the answer depends on various factors:

• Form: Babar Azam is currently in great form and has been consistently performing across formats. In the last few years, his numbers have been on the rise, making him one of the most reliable batsmen in world cricket.
• Consistency: While Virat Kohli’s consistency over a long period of time cannot be understated, his recent form has been a bit inconsistent. In contrast, Babar Azam has maintained a steady rise in all formats.
• Impact in Big Matches: Virat Kohli has played more high-pressure matches than Babar Azam, especially in ICC tournaments. However, Babar’s recent performances in crucial matches have been impressive, indicating his potential to handle pressure situations.

Considering Babar Azam’s consistency, form, and leadership abilities, it’s safe to say that Babar Azam is No. 1 at the moment. His ability to anchor an innings, accumulate runs, and deliver under pressure has made him the standout player in world cricket.

FAQs: Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli

1. Who has a better batting average, Babar Azam or Virat Kohli?

• Virat Kohli has a higher batting average overall, particularly in ODIs. However, Babar Azam’s batting average is quickly catching up, and in T20Is and Tests, he is a serious contender.

2. Has Babar Azam surpassed Virat Kohli?

• While Babar Azam is certainly on the rise and has been in excellent form, it’s fair to say that Virat Kohli’s legacy still overshadows Babar in terms of career achievements. However, Babar has the potential to surpass him in the future.

3. Which player is better in T20 cricket?

• Babar Azam has been one of the best T20 players in recent years, .But Virat Kohli has consistently dominated in T20Is, especially during ICC tournaments. Babar is emerging as a strong contender, but Virat still leads in terms of overall impact.

4. Who is more stylish in their batting – Babar Azam or Virat Kohli?

• Babar Azam’s technique is widely regarded as more stylish and elegant, with his cover drive being one of the best shots in modern cricket. Virat Kohli, while stylish, is more aggressive in his approach.

5. Who is better under pressure, Babar Azam or Virat Kohli?

• Virat Kohli has proven his ability to perform under pressure time and again, especially in run chases. However, Babar Azam has shown signs of being just as effective in pressure situations.

Conclusion: The Future Belongs to Babar Azam

While Virat Kohli will always be remembered for his monumental contributions to the game. And his exceptional achievements, Babar Azam is rapidly emerging as the future of world cricket. His consistency, elegance, and leadership qualities set him apart as a top contender for the title of the best batsman in the world.

The debate of Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli will continue for years to come. But if we look at the current form, the rising stars, and the overall potential, Babar Azam stands out as the No. 1 batsman today. With time, he could cement his place as one of the all-time greats in world cricket.