For years, Pakistan’s Babar Azam has often been compared to India’s Virat Kohli. But right now, those comparisons seem far from reality. What was once considered a fair debate has now turned into something many see as unrealistic. The reason? Babar’s ongoing poor form, which has now stretched to 72 international innings without a century.
Babar Azam’s Struggles Continue
Babar’s latest setback came in the final ODI against the West Indies, where he managed only nine runs. Pakistan collapsed for just 92, losing the match and the series 2-1. It was also their first ODI series defeat to the West Indies in 34 years. Following this, a former Pakistan star openly criticised Babar, saying he should never have been compared to Kohli in the first place.
Ahmed Shehzad Says Virat Kohli Stands Alone
That former player is Ahmed Shehzad. He believes King Kohli is in a league of his own, not even comparable to someone like MS Dhoni.
“When everything was going well, you were running campaigns comparing players. Now that the performances are not coming, you are saying ‘don’t compare two players’. Why not? Virat Kohli’s comparison cannot be made with anyone in the world. He is a legend of this generation, a role model. You cannot compare him even with MS Dhoni. Dhoni may have been a great captain, but as a batter, cricketer, and athlete, Kohli stands alone. No one should be compared with anyone because it’s unfair and it adds extra pressure, which we are now seeing on Babar,” he said.
Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli: The Reality Check
Babar Azam turns 31 this year, so he still has time on his side. However, matching Kohli’s incredible career numbers seems highly unlikely at this stage. All eyes will now be on the selectors to see if Azam makes the squad for the Asia Cup starting September 9.
If picked, Azam will have a big milestone in sight. He needs just nine runs to overtake Rohit Sharma at the top of the list for most T20I runs. This year’s Asia Cup will be played in the shortest format for only the third time in history, and breaking Rohit Sharma’s record would be a notable achievement for Babar Azam.
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