Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli: A Detailed Look at the duo’s numbers across formats

The rivalry between two modern cricket greats, Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli, is a topic that many fans discuss with great interest. Virat Kohli and Babar Azam are celebrated batters who have marked their presence in international cricket with their outstanding performances.

Virat began his international journey in 2008, while Babar stepped into the limelight in 2015, and since then comparisons have been drawn between the two. On April 19, 2021, Babar ended Kohli’s incredible 1,258-day reign at the top of the ODI rankings, adding more fuel to the Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli debate. This exciting rivalry is now one of the most talked-about subjects in cricket.

Background and Career Trajectory

Virat Kohli, known for his consistent run-scoring and fierce determination, began his international career in 2008. He quickly rose to prominence with his exceptional talent and hard work. Over the years, Kohli established himself as an icon in international cricket by setting high benchmarks in ODIs and Tests. His journey from being a young prodigy to one of cricket’s most dominant batters is well recognized.

The comparison of Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli is rooted in Kohli’s long-established career, making his records a symbol of consistency and excellence in cricket. His early start gave him a head start in accumulating impressive statistics that define his career.

On the other hand, Babar Azam made his international debut in 2015 and has rapidly climbed the ranks to become a key player for Pakistan. Even though he started later, Babar’s talent made him one of the brightest stars in cricket. Early comparisons of Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli emerged because Babar displayed a similar style to Kohli during his U-19 days. While Kohli had already won a U-19 world title, Babar’s record showed great promise despite the lack of such a trophy. His achievement of being the fastest to score 2,000 ODI runs in just 47 matches further solidified the discussion of Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli among fans and experts.

T20 International Showdown

In T20 Internationals, the battle of Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli is clearly visible in the numbers. Virat Kohli has played 115 matches, scoring 4,008 runs with an average of 52.73, while Babar Azam has played 104 matches and scored 3,485 runs at an average of 41.49. Kohli’s strike rate is at 137.96, and he has managed one century along with 37 half-centuries. Babar, though with fewer matches, has hit three centuries and made 30 half-centuries with a strike rate of 128.41.

This direct comparison of their T20 statistics creates a captivating case of Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli, showing how experience and style meet in short-format cricket. Their performance in T20Is is a major part of their ongoing rivalry.The numbers in the T20 format further demonstrate the impact of consistency and aggressive play. Virat Kohli’s success over more games points to his ability to maintain high standards in pressure situations. Meanwhile, Babar’s record of three centuries indicates his strong batting power in quick encounters.

The duel of Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli in T20 Internationals shows that even with differences in match count, both players have carved their niches in the shortest format. This competitive spirit has not only driven individual performances but has also added excitement to every match they participate in, keeping fans engaged and debates active.

One-Day International (ODI) Comparison

When it comes to One-Day Internationals, the numbers of Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli reveal clear distinctions and similarities in their approaches. Virat Kohli has played 289 ODI matches and amassed a total of 13,626 runs with an impressive batting average of 58.48. His strike rate in ODIs stands at 93.55, and he has scored 49 centuries and 70 half-centuries.

Kohli’s milestone of being one of the only six players to cross 12,000 ODI runs and being the fastest to do so in 251 matches reinforces his long-standing dominance in the format. The statistics in the context of Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli show how a longer career can sometimes play a role in accumulating large numbers over time.

Babar Azam’s ODI journey, on the other hand, is marked by rapid success in a shorter period. He has played 116 matches and scored 5,691 runs, carrying an average of 56.91 with a strike rate of 88.78. Despite playing fewer matches, his record includes 19 centuries and 32 half-centuries. These figures add a competitive edge to the ongoing debate of Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli in ODIs, showing that Babar has quickly become a formidable opponent in the one-day format. Each run and every match played builds on the legacy of both players, making their numbers a central focus in the world of cricket today.

Test Cricket Comparison

Test cricket brings a different challenge, and the contest of Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli in this format reveals more about their skills and stamina. Virat Kohli has appeared in 111 Test matches, scoring 8,676 runs with an average of 49.30 and a strike rate of 55.23. His record includes 29 centuries and 29 half-centuries, and he is recognized for being the fastest to score 7,000 Test runs in just 81 matches. Kohli’s numbers in the Test arena echo his resilience and ability to perform over long periods of time. The detailed statistics of Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli in Tests highlight how each player has adapted to one of cricket’s toughest formats.

Babar Azam, although having played only 49 Test matches, has scored 3,772 runs with an average of 47.75 and a nearly identical strike rate of 55.19. His record includes 9 centuries and 26 half-centuries, showing that he can handle the rigorous demands of Test cricket. The performance in the context of Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli provides a clear picture of how Babar is quickly catching up with a more experienced player like Kohli. Each game in Test cricket tests the players’ patience and skill, and the numbers illustrate their ability to succeed even in a long-format game.

Overall International Centuries and Impact

The comparison of overall international centuries further deepens the discussion of Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli. Virat Kohli has amassed an impressive total of 79 international centuries across formats, showing his consistent performance over a long career. This achievement highlights his reliability and steady contribution in many important matches. Every century recorded by Kohli serves as a testament to his skill and hard work. The numbers in the debate of Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli give cricket fans a reason to celebrate each century as a milestone that has contributed to his legendary status.

Babar Azam, in contrast, has scored 31 international centuries in his career so far. Although lower than Kohli’s numbers, Babar’s record is very impressive considering the fewer matches he has played. His rapid rise in the records of international cricket makes the Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli comparison even more interesting.

Each century by Babar reflects his determination and focus during every innings. These totals are not just numbers; they tell the story of two great batters who have influenced the modern game significantly. The legacy of their centuries continues to inspire future generations, making the discussion of Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli a lasting one.

Captaincy Records and Leadership Impact

Captaincy records add another layer of detail in the discussion of Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli, showing how their leadership styles influence their performance. Virat Kohli has led in T20 Internationals in 50 matches, winning 30 and losing 16 games, with 1,570 runs scored as captain. His leadership has been a vital part of the team strategy, and his cricketing acumen is highlighted by these numbers. His record as a captain underlines his ability to make timely decisions and motivate players to perform well. The numbers in the Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli comparison provide evidence of his strong captaincy skills, setting a benchmark for future captains.

Babar Azam’s record as a captain is equally compelling when discussed in the context of Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli. He has captained 71 T20I matches, winning 42 of them and scoring 2,195 runs while leading his team. His performance in this role shows that even though he started his international career later, his leadership qualities have grown quickly. In Test and ODI cricket, Babar’s captaincy record is also promising with 20 Test matches and 42 ODI matches under his belt. The leadership records of both players show that their influence goes far beyond individual batting statistics, as each decision and every match run serves to inspire and drive their teams toward success.

Comparative Analysis: Strengths, Weaknesses, and Trends

When comparing the strengths and weaknesses of the two players, the discussion of Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli brings forward many interesting points. Virat Kohli’s extensive experience gives him strength in managing pressure and delivering consistently high scores, especially in crucial moments. His record across formats demonstrates his ability to adapt his game according to match conditions.

Although Babar Azam has a shorter career so far, his rapid progress in scoring runs and achieving milestones shows his strong determination. The detailed numbers of Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli reflect that both players have specific strengths that make them outstanding, and that experience or quick progress each plays its part in their cricketing paths.

The trends from their performances also highlight differences in playing styles and opportunities. Virat Kohli’s style relies on consistency developed over many years, while Babar Azam’s record shows aggressive moves and quick scoring. In the context of Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli, the contrast in their career paths, the era they played in, and the nature of their respective matches become clear through their statistics.

Both strengths and weaknesses are noted in the numbers, with each player achieving records that suit their individual circumstances. This comprehensive comparison helps in understanding the significance of their contributions and paves the way for future records in cricket.

Conclusion

The detailed analysis of Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli shows many important numbers and records that define their careers. Virat Kohli’s long journey from 2008 has set a high benchmark with his large collection of centuries and consistent performance in all formats. On the other hand, Babar Azam’s quick rise since 2015 has caught the attention of cricket fans and experts alike.

The comparisons in T20, ODI, and Test formats, along with their captaincy records, add more depth to the rivalry of Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli. Each player’s achievements in different formats highlight their unique talents and significant contributions to the game of cricket.

In summary, the numbers and milestones in the debate of Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli speak volumes about their respective careers and legacies. Both players have influenced the world of cricket in unique ways through their sheer consistency and leadership abilities. The statistics show a story of two dedicated players shaping the future of international cricket. As their careers continue to evolve, the records of Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli will remain a valuable reference for fans and experts who appreciate the beauty and complexity of cricket.