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Virat Kohli vs Babar Azam: Who is the Better Player?

Virat Kohli vs Babar Azam: Who is the Better Player?

Determining whether Virat Kohli or Babar Azam is the better player is subjective and depends on various factors including personal preferences, the criteria used for evaluation, and the context of their performances. However, we can compare their careers based on several key aspects such as statistics, achievements, consistency, and impact on the game.

Batting Statistics

  1. Virat Kohli
    • ODIs (as of June 2024): Over 12,000 runs, average around 58, 46 centuries
    • T20Is: Over 4,000 runs, average around 53, strike rate around 138
    • Tests: Over 8,500 runs, average around 49, 27 centuries
  2. Babar Azam
    • ODIs (as of June 2024): Over 5,000 runs, average around 59, 19 centuries
    • T20Is: Over 3,000 runs, average around 48, strike rate around 130
    • Tests: Over 4,000 runs, average around 47, 11 centuries

Achievements

  1. Virat Kohli
    • ICC Player of the Decade (2011-2020)
    • Multiple ICC awards including ICC ODI Player of the Year and ICC Test Player of the Year
    • Captaincy records in all formats, leading India to several high-profile series wins
  2. Babar Azam
    • ICC ODI Player of the Year (2021)
    • Consistently ranked in the top 5 batsmen across all formats
    • Led Pakistan to significant victories, including a historic series win against South Africa

Consistency and Impact

  1. Virat Kohli
    • Known for his consistency across all formats and in all conditions
    • Significant impact on Indian cricket with his aggressive style and fitness revolution
    • Proven match-winner in numerous high-pressure situations
  2. Babar Azam
    • Praised for his elegant and technically sound batting
    • Consistent performer and often the backbone of Pakistan’s batting lineup
    • Emerging as a strong leader and a match-winner for Pakistan

Context and Intangibles

  1. Virat Kohli
    • Started his career earlier and has had a longer period to accumulate stats
    • Known for his aggressive and passionate approach to the game
    • Huge fan following and marketability
  2. Babar Azam
    • Slightly newer to the international scene but quickly made a name for himself
    • Calm and composed demeanor on the field
    • Expected to have a long and illustrious career if he maintains his form

Conclusion

Both players have their unique strengths and have contributed immensely to their respective teams. Virat Kohli has a more extensive record given his longer career, with numerous individual accolades and records. Babar Azam, on the other hand, has shown remarkable consistency and technical prowess early in his career and continues to rise.

Ultimately, the “better” player can vary depending on what one values more in a cricketer—whether it is consistency over a longer period (Kohli), or a rising star with incredible potential and current form (Babar). Both are exceptional players, and the cricketing world is fortunate to witness their talents.

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