Virat Kohli vs Babar Azam: A Simple Comparison of Their Cricket Careers
Virat Kohli and Babar Azam are two of the most famous cricketers today. Virat plays for India, while Babar represents Pakistan. Both are highly skilled and talented. This article compares their achievements in three formats: tests, one-day internationals (ODIs), and T20s.
1. About the Players
Virat Kohli (India):
Virat Kohli is one of the best cricketers in the world. He made his debut in 2008 and quickly became known for his batting and leadership. He has set many records and is consistent across all formats.
Babar Azam (Pakistan):
Babar Azam started his international career in 2015. He is Pakistan’s top batsman. His stylish play and consistency have made him one of the best in the world. You can read more about his career here.
2. Virat Kohli vs Babar Azam in Test Cricket
Virat Kohli’s Test Stats:
- Matches Played: 108
- Runs Scored: 8,535
- Average: 53.41
- Centuries: 27
- Highest Score: 254
Virat has been very successful in Test cricket. He has played in many countries and scored quickly. His leadership helped India win big matches, such as their 2020-21 series in Australia.
Babar Azam’s Test Stats:
- Matches Played: 46
- Runs Scored: 3,405
- Average: 45.43
- Centuries: 7
- Highest Score: 143
Babar has been Pakistan’s top Test batsman. He has played fewer matches than Virat but has shown great skill, especially in tough conditions like those in Australia and England.
3. Virat Kohli vs Babar Azam in One-Day Internationals (ODIs)
Virat Kohli’s ODI Stats:
- Matches Played: 273
- Runs Scored: 12,898
- Average: 59.07
- Centuries: 46
- Highest Score: 183
Virat has been outstanding in ODIs. He is the fastest to reach 8,000, 9,000, and 10,000 runs. He is also known for his ability to finish matches and help India win. Find more about his achievements in ODIs here.
Babar Azam’s ODI Stats:
- Matches Played: 99
- Runs Scored: 4,893
- Average: 59.91
- Centuries: 17
- Highest Score: 114
Babar has also done well in ODIs. He may have played fewer matches than Virat, but his consistency and ability to play long innings make him important for Pakistan.
4. Virat Kohli vs Babar Azam in T20 Internationals (T20Is)
Virat Kohli’s T20I stats:
- Matches Played: 115
- Runs Scored: 3,296
- Average: 52.78
- Strike Rate: 138.24
- Centuries: 0
- Highest Score: 90*
Virat is known for his consistent T20I performances. He has been key to India’s success in major tournaments like the World Cup.
Babar Azam’s T20I stats:
- Matches Played: 71
- Runs Scored: 2,544
- Average: 44.00
- Strike Rate: 130.41
- Centuries: 1
- Highest Score: 122
Babar Azam has been an important T20 player for Pakistan. He was the first Pakistani to score a T20I century. His calm batting in tough situations has made him a standout performer.
5. Key Achievements and Records
Virat Kohli:
- Fastest to 8,000, 9,000, 10,000, and 11,000 runs in ODIs.
- First to score 50 international centuries.
- Only player with an average above 50 in all formats. You can learn more about his records on this page.
Babar Azam:
- Fastest to 1,000 runs in T20Is.
- First Pakistani to score a T20I century.
- Often ranked among the world’s top batsmen.
6. Performance in Big Tournaments
Virat Kohli has been exceptional in ICC tournaments. He is known for performing under pressure in events like the World Cup and Champions Trophy.
Babar Azam has also impressed in ICC events. In the 2021 T20 World Cup, he played an important role in leading Pakistan.
7. Leadership and Impact on Teams
Virat Kohli:
Virat led India with passion and determination. His leadership helped India win historic matches, like their Test series win in Australia.
Babar Azam:
Babar Azam now leads Pakistan. His calm approach has helped Pakistan become a strong team, particularly after their win over India in the 2021 T20 World Cup.
Conclusion
Both Virat Kohli and Babar Azam are amazing cricketers. Virat has more records and a longer career. However, Babar is already making his mark and has a bright future.
Overall, Virat Kohli has achieved more in terms of records and leadership. His consistency and success in big tournaments give him the edge. But Babar Azam’s talent and potential suggest he will be a major player in the future.
Both players have unique strengths. Their rivalry will continue to excite cricket fans around the world.
Who’s the Better Player?
It depends on what you value in a player. Virat’s records and consistency stand out, while Babar’s elegance and growing success show he has a bright future. Both are stars in their own right, and their rivalry is one of the most exciting in cricket today.
Muhammad Anas
