Babar Azam, a Pakistani cricketer born on October 15, 1994, in Lahore, is recognized as one of the finest batters in contemporary cricket. Making his international debut in May 2015 against Zimbabwe, Azam quickly rose through the ranks, showcasing remarkable consistency across all formats. Notably, he holds the record for being the fastest cricketer to score 1,000, 2,000, 3,000, 4,000, and 5,000 runs in One Day Internationals (ODIs). Azam's prowess extends to Tests and T20Is as well, evident from his Test debut in October 2016 and his consistent performances in T20 cricket. He captained the Pakistan national team across all formats until November 2023, leaving behind a legacy of success and leadership. Azam's cricketing journey is defined by records and accolades, solidifying his status as one of Pakistan's cricketing legends.
Virat Kohli, a prominent figure in international cricket, rose to prominence as a dynamic leader during the 2008 Under-19 World Cup, where he led India to victory. Despite initial challenges in securing a spot in the senior national team, Kohli's persistence paid off, showcasing his potential with commendable performances. Notably, his breakthrough innings came during a tense run-chase against Sri Lanka, solidifying his reputation as a reliable player under pressure. Kohli's journey continued with remarkable achievements, including multiple ODI records and influential contributions to India's success in major tournaments. Renowned for his aggressive yet calculated batting style, Kohli's tenure as captain further showcased his leadership abilities, guiding India to significant victories and earning accolades both on and off the field. In the Indian Premier League, Kohli's unwavering commitment to the Royal Challengers Bangalore franchise has solidified his status as one of the league's most iconic figures, despite the team's elusive quest for a title.
The rivalry between Virat Kohli vs Babar Azam, two cricketing stalwarts from India and Pakistan respectively, has been a captivating narrative in the cricketing world, particularly highlighted during the ICC Men's T20 World Cups of 2021 and 2022.
These encounters not only showcased their individual brilliance but also underscored the intense competition between the two teams, making each match a memorable event for cricket fans, that often led to comparing Virat vs Babar.
In the 2021 T20 World Cup, held on October 24 in Dubai, the spotlight was on Babar Azam as he, alongside Mohammad Rizwan, led Pakistan to a historic victory over India.
This match was significant as it marked Pakistan's first World Cup win against India in 13 attempts. Shaheen Shah Afridi's devastating opening spell, where he claimed the wickets of both Indian openers, set the tone for the night.
Despite Virat Kohli's valiant 57-run effort, India could not withstand the pressure exerted by Pakistan's bowlers and the clinical chase executed by Babar and Rizwan.
The match ended in a 10-wicket win for Pakistan, a result that broke a long-standing jinx and was celebrated fervently by Pakistan fans. Also mark another significant moment on Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli rivalry.
The following year, at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on October 23, 2022, another chapter of Babar Azam vs Kohli rivalry showed in dramatic fashion.
This time, it was Virat Kohli who stole the show with an unbeaten 82, guiding India to a nail-biting victory over Pakistan.
Kohli's innings, hailed as one of the greatest in T20 cricket, was a masterclass in chasing under pressure. The match, watched by over 90,000 fans, went down to the wire, with India securing a win on the last ball.
The game was not just about Kohli's heroics; contributions from Hardik Pandya and Arshdeep Singh were crucial in India's triumph. Pandya's all-round performance and Singh's early breakthrough, including the wicket of Babar Azam, played pivotal roles in shaping the outcome.
These encounters between India and Pakistan, with Virat Kohli vs Babar Azam at the forefront, have not only highlighted their exceptional talents but also the deep-rooted rivalry and mutual respect between the two teams.
Each match, with its own set of dramatic moments and individual heroics, has contributed to the rich tapestry of cricketing history, leaving fans eagerly anticipating future contests between Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli.
Babar Azam Career Statistics
Career Batting Stats
Format
Matches (M)
Innings (Inn)
Not Outs (NO)
Runs (R)
High Score (HS)
Average (Avg.)
Balls Faced (BF)
Strike Rate (SR)
Hundreds (H)
Fifties (50x)
Fours (4s)
Sixes (6s)
Test
52
94
9
3898
196
45.86
7104
54.87
9
26
454
23
ODI
117
114
13
5729
158
56.72
6455
88.75
19
32
520
60
T20i
109
103
14
3698
122
41.55
2864
129.12
3
33
395
59
Career Bowling Stats
Format
Matches (M)
Innings (Inn)
Balls (B)
Runs (R)
Wickets (W)
BBM
Average (Avg.)
Economy (Econ.)
Strike Rate (SR)
5W
10W
Test
52
8
90
42
2
1/2
21.0
2.8
45.0
0
0
ODI
117
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
T20i
109
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Virat Kohli Career Statistics
Career Batting Stats
Format
Matches (M)
Innings (Inn)
Not Outs (NO)
Runs (R)
High Score (HS)
Average (Avg.)
Balls Faced (BF)
Strike Rate (SR)
Hundreds (H)
Fifties (50x)
Fours (4s)
Sixes (6s)
Test
113
191
11
8848
254
49.16
15924
55.56
29
30
991
26
ODI
292
280
44
13848
183
58.68
14797
93.59
50
72
1294
152
T20i
117
109
31
4037
122
51.76
2922
138.16
1
37
361
117
IPL
237
229
34
7263
113
37.25
5586
130.02
7
50
643
234
Career Bowling Stats
Format
Matches (M)
Innings (Inn)
Balls (B)
Runs (R)
Wickets (W)
BBM
Average (Avg.)
Economy (Econ.)
Strike Rate (SR)
5W
10W
Test
113
11
175
84
0
0/0
0.0
2.88
0.0
0
0
ODI
292
50
662
680
5
1/13
136.0
6.16
132.4
0
0
T20i
117
13
152
204
4
1/13
51.0
8.05
38.0
0
0
IPL
237
26
251
368
4
2/25
92.0
8.8
62.75
0
0
Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli
In the domain of international cricket, the comparison between Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli has always been a topic of great interest.
Both are iconic figures who have proved their mettle time and again on the cricket field, yet each embodies a unique style and approach to the game.
The dilemma when comparing Virat Kohli vs Babar Azam lies in differentiating their performances using career statistics.
It’s a fascinating subject to dissect, given the intricacies of the data and the potential revelations it may hold.
It is worth exploring the head-to-head Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli statistical comparison of these cricketing maestros, which may shed new light on their respective prowess.
Head to Head Comparison of Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli
Babar Azam and Virat Kohli both debut in 2015 and 2008 respectively, overcoming initial struggles to establish successful cricket careers.
Azam leads in ODI and T20 averages, while Kohli showcases consistency with a higher Test average.
Both players have significant achievements, with Azam's top global ranking and Kohli's Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy win.
As captains, both Azam and Kohli have led their teams to notable victories, with contrasting leadership styles and impressive winning percentages.
Early Years and Debut Match Statistics
Going back into the early years and debut match statistics, it becomes evident that Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli rivalry displayed immense promise and skill from the onset of their respective cricket careers.
Babar Azam made his debut in 2015 against Zimbabwe, scoring an impressive 54 runs. Kohli, on the other hand, debuted in 2008 against Sri Lanka, where he managed only 12 runs.
It is interesting to note that despite the initial discrepancy in their debut performances, both players faced early struggles in the pursuit of their cricketing careers.
Azam, despite his remarkable debut, faced challenges in cementing his place in the Pakistan cricket team due to inconsistent performances.
Similarly, Kohli, despite his prodigious talent, faced early struggles with form and consistency. These initial hardships, however, did not deter them and served as evidence of their subsequent success.
The analysis of their early years and debut performances highlights not only their raw talent but also their resilience in the face of adversity.
Beyond Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli comparison, both own initial years in international cricket are proof of their will to rise above the trials and tribulations, paving the way for their illustrious careers.
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Batting Averages: Test, ODI, and T20
Turning our focus to the batting averages in Test, ODI, and T20 formats, a thorough comparison between Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli offers insightful revelations about their individual proficiency and adaptability in diverse cricketing scenarios.
Both players have had outstanding careers, but a detailed look into their batting averages and strike rates provides a deeper understanding of their techniques and performances.
Test Averages
Azam’s average in Test matches trails slightly behind Kohli’s. This showcases Kohli’s consistent performance in the longer format of the game, a result of his superior technique and adaptability.
ODI Averages
In the ODI format, Azam has a marginally higher average than Kohli. This implies that Azam’s technique analysis in the shorter format could be more refined, leading to better consistency.
T20 Averages
Azam clearly leads in T20 averages, indicating his prowess in this fast-paced format. This can be attributed to his higher strike rate, making him a more aggressive player in T20 cricket.
Strike Rates Comparison
While Kohli’s strike rate is commendable across formats, Azam’s higher T20 strike rate could be a game-changer.
This comparison of Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli, liberates us from bias, enabling a fair appreciation of both cricketing giants.
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Major Achievements and Awards
In evaluating the stellar careers of Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli, their numerous accolades and significant achievements provide proof of their exceptional cricketing skills and consistent performances over the years.
Azam, currently ranked as one of the top five batsmen in the world, has received four Player of the Series awards in T20I cricket.
Meanwhile, Kohli has amassed an impressive array of honours, including the prestigious Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy for ICC Cricketer of the Year.
Their personal lives have also influenced their careers. Babar Azam’s humble beginnings have defined his cricketing ethos, while Virat Kohli’s high-profile marriage to Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma has brought him immense press attention and commercial opportunities.
Endorsement deals have also played a significant role in their careers. Kohli’s endorsements span across various sectors, from sportswear to automobiles, contributing to his status as one of the highest-paid athletes globally.
Azam, while not as extensively endorsed, has secured deals with major brands, reflecting his growing global reputation.
These achievements and awards illustrate not only their cricketing prowess but also their marketability and influence beyond the pitch and mark another significant point of Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli rivalry.
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Captaincy Records and Impact
When comparing Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli, both have demonstrated remarkable leadership skills, as evident from their captaincy records and the profound impact they have had on their respective teams.
With different leadership styles, they have each managed to positively influence their teams and guide them to notable victories.
1. Leadership Styles
Kohli’s aggressive and passionate style contrasts with Babar’s calm and composed demeanor. These styles have shaped the team dynamics and performance of the Indian and Pakistani teams respectively.
2. Team Influence
Both captains have inspired their teams to achieve new heights. Kohli led India to its first-ever test series win in Australia, while Babar has been instrumental in bringing consistency to the Pakistani batting line-up.
3. Captaincy Records
Kohli has captained India in over 60 test matches with a winning percentage of over 58%, while Babar, who took over captaincy more recently, has shown promise with a 50% winning rate in his first 10 tests.
4. Impact
Their leadership has not only resulted in team victories but also in the emergence of new talent, showcasing their ability to nurture and develop upcoming players.
Head-to-Head Performance Analysis
Delving into the domain of head-to-head performance, a meticulous analysis reveals intriguing insights into the cricketing prowess of Babar Azam and Virat Kohli.
To appreciate their comparative consistency, we dissect their batting averages, which encapsulate their overall reliability.
Kohli, with a spectacular average of 52.04 in ODIs and 52.88 in Tests, clearly demonstrates his unwavering performance.
Azam, though relatively new, holds a promising average of 54.17 and 45.44 in ODIs and Tests respectively, hinting at his potential to surpass Kohli in due course.
Player longevity plays a substantial role in establishing a player’s legacy. Kohli, having played for over a decade, has displayed a longevity that carries the weight of experience and perseverance.
His consistent performance has been a proof of his adaptability in diverse cricketing conditions. Azam, on the other hand, is at the nascent stage of his career but has shown promise of a long and successful tenure.
While Kohli’s numbers reflect the story of a seasoned player, Azam’s statistics narrate a tale of a rising star.
The contrasting stages of their careers make Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli head-to-head analysis an exciting study in comparative consistency and player longevity.
Final Words on Head to Head Comparison of Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli
The comparison between Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli’s cricket careers offers insightful data, reflecting both their individual prowess and impact as captains.
Although their career trajectories show distinct trends across Test, ODI, and T20 formats, their contributions to cricket cannot be understated.
Their performances and awards validate their significance in the cricketing world. A detailed head-to-head analysis further illuminates their skills and influence, making them both notable figures in international cricket.
FAQs about Head to Head Comparison of Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli
What Personal Hardships Did Babar Azam and Virat Kohli Face in Their Early Years Before Professional Cricket?
Both Babar Azam and Virat Kohli faced significant personal hardships. Family influence and career motivation played pivotal roles in overcoming their early struggles, propelling them to their illustrious professional cricket careers.
Have Babar Azam and Virat Kohli Ever Played on the Same Team in Any Form of Cricket?
Regarding team loyalties and career progression, Babar Azam and Virat Kohli have not played together on the same team in any form of cricket, maintaining distinct paths within their respective national teams.
Outside of Cricket, What Other Sports or Hobbies Are Babar Azam and Virat Kohli Interested In?
Outside of cricket, both Babar Azam and Virat Kohli share a football enthusiasm influenced by their families. They also enjoy leisure activities, with Azam favoring hunting and Kohli being passionate about fitness and healthy lifestyle.
How Do Babar Azam and Virat Kohli's Fitness Regimes and Diets Compare?
Babar Azam and Virat Kohli, guided by their fitness mentors, maintain rigorous training schedules. Their dietary influences lean towards high-protein diets, showcasing a dedication to physical well-being that goes beyond their cricket careers.
What Philanthropic Works or Charities Are Babar Azam and Virat Kohli Involved In?
Babar Azam and Virat Kohli are involved in significant philanthropic works through their charitable foundations, reflecting their societal consciousness and desire to make a meaningful, positive philanthropic impact beyond the cricket field.