The ongoing debate about Virat Kohli and Babar Azam’s superiority as batsmen has sparked intense discussions among cricket enthusiasts. While some consider Babar Azam to be a worthy contender, former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria firmly believes that Kohli’s dominance is undeniable.

Kaneria: Kohli’s Stature and Records Speak Volumes

Kaneria expresses his frustration over the constant comparisons, arguing that Kohli’s superior record and influence on the field make him a clear cut above Babar Azam. He emphasizes Kohli’s exceptional run-scoring ability across various conditions and global tournaments, solidifying his status as a truly formidable batsman.

Kohli’s Aura: An Unmatched Influence

Kaneria highlights the aura Kohli brings to the field, asserting that his presence alone impacts the game in a way Babar Azam cannot yet achieve. He suggests that these comparisons are often fueled by the media’s desire to generate hype and promote their platforms. Kaneria urges fans to refrain from drawing conclusions and to instead analyze the players’ stats upon their retirement for a true assessment of their careers.

Babar Azam’s Current Form

Babar Azam, widely hailed as one of the world’s top batsmen, is currently experiencing a slump in form. He had a disappointing performance in the first Test against Bangladesh in Rawalpindi, managing only two runs across both innings. This dip in performance raises concerns about his ability to maintain his high standards and reignite his form.

Kohli’s Possible Return

Virat Kohli hasn’t participated in a Test match since India’s encounter with South Africa in Cape Town in January 2024. However, there are strong indications that he might make a comeback during India’s upcoming two-Test series against Bangladesh in September. Fans are eagerly awaiting Kohli’s return to witness his potential impact on the game and potentially regain his form.

Take Away Points

Kaneria’s perspective underscores the immense impact Kohli has had on the cricketing world. While Babar Azam has proven himself to be a formidable batsman, his journey towards reaching Kohli’s level of dominance is still ongoing. It is too early to definitively declare one player superior to the other. However, Kaneria’s viewpoint emphasizes the importance of recognizing Kohli’s unparalleled legacy in cricket, as reflected in his statistics, aura, and overall contribution to the sport.