Pakistan’s star batter and former captain Babar Azam has once again publicly expressed frustration over persistent comparisons with India’s modern batting great Virat Kohli, urging the media to stop framing narratives around the two players’ careers.
The discussion resurfaced during the ongoing Pakistan Super League, where Babar featured for Peshawar Zalmi. In his most recent outing, he scored 43 runs off 37 deliveries in an innings that, while measured and controlled, drew mixed reactions regarding its tempo. Despite criticism over strike rate in T20 cricket, his knock played a stabilising role in his side’s successful chase.
Following the match, Babar was engaged in a routine media interaction covering his form and team strategy. However, the tone shifted when he was asked yet again to compare himself with Kohli. Visibly irritated, the batter interrupted the line of questioning and made it clear that such comparisons are neither productive nor fair.
He emphasised that a batter’s performance should be evaluated within the context of match conditions rather than through external benchmarks. According to him, every game presents unique challenges—ranging from pitch behaviour and opposition tactics to match situation and required partnerships. He argued that these variables make direct comparisons misleading.
Babar further explained that cricket is inherently unpredictable. Even well-executed shots can result in dismissal or dot balls, while sometimes mis-hits produce runs. He noted that these uncertainties are part of the sport and should be accepted when assessing performances.
Addressing his own form and mindset, the 29-year-old said he focuses on continuous improvement, disciplined preparation, and adapting to team requirements. He added that progress in international cricket is gradual and often takes months of consistent effort rather than immediate transformation. He also highlighted that contributions in pressure situations are not always reflected in statistics alone.
Despite his reputation as one of Pakistan’s most prolific batters, Babar has faced increasing scrutiny in recent years, particularly in the T20 format. Critics argue that modern limited-overs cricket demands higher strike rates and more aggressive intent, an area where his approach is often debated.
In the current PSL season, Babar has played two matches so far, accumulating 82 runs with a steady average of 41. While his consistency remains evident, questions continue to be raised about his tempo in the shortest format.
Recent PSL Performance
| Matches Played | Total Runs | Average | Batting Style Assessment |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 82 | 41.0 | Controlled, steady innings |
The renewed discussion around Kohli comparisons has once again placed Babar at the centre of cricketing debate. However, his message remains firm: he prioritises his own development and his team’s requirements over external comparisons, insisting that each player’s journey in international cricket is distinct and should be judged on its own merit.