🔥 A deep dive into cricket’s biggest batting debate – Updated for 2025 🔥
Cricket fans across the world love to compare legends, and few debates are as heated as
Babar Azam vs
Virat Kohli. Both players have redefined batting in modern cricket, with
ICC rankings,
centuries, and records fueling endless discussions. But in 2025, who stands taller? Let’s break it down.
1. Career Statistics Comparison
| Stat | Babar Azam | Virat Kohli |
|---|---|---|
| ODI Runs | 6,300+ | 13,200+ |
| T20I Runs | 4,100+ | 4,200+ |
| Test Runs | 4,800+ | 8,900+ |
| International Centuries | 32 | 80 |
📌 Highlight: Kohli’s 80 international centuries place him just behind Sachin Tendulkar, while Babar Azam is building his own impressive legacy with consistency across formats.
2. Technique and Style
Virat Kohli is known as the “Chase Master,” with unmatched ability to anchor innings under pressure. His aggressive stroke play and fitness regime make him one of the fittest cricketers ever.
Meanwhile, Babar Azam has earned global praise for his elegant batting style. His cover drive is considered one of the finest in the game today, earning comparisons to legends like Sangakkara and Ponting.
3. Big Match Performances
In high-pressure ICC tournaments, Kohli has delivered iconic innings, particularly in World Cups and against Pakistan. His temperament in run chases is second to none.
However, Babar has stepped up in recent years, leading Pakistan to victories against top teams and consistently being among the top-ranked batsmen in ODI rankings.
4. Captaincy Impact
Babar Azam captained Pakistan across formats until 2023, with notable series wins but criticism over defensive strategies. His leadership remains a work in progress, but he has inspired a new generation of Pakistani cricketers.
Kohli’s tenure as Indian captain brought historic overseas Test wins, though his inability to win an ICC trophy is often pointed out. Still, his aggressive captaincy transformed India into a fearless team.
5. Fan Opinions & Reviews
💬 Fan Reviews
“Virat Kohli’s intensity is unmatched. He thrives in pressure situations and carries the team.”
“Babar Azam plays cricket like poetry. His cover drives are worth the ticket price alone!”
“Kohli is already a legend, but Babar has the potential to surpass him if he maintains his form.”
6. Future Outlook
As of 2025, Kohli is nearing the twilight of his career, but still contributes with crucial innings. Babar, at just 30, is entering his peak years and could dominate world cricket for the next decade.
Final Verdict: While Virat Kohli has already cemented his place as one of the greatest ever, Babar Azam is the future face of batting excellence. Instead of comparing, fans should celebrate the rare era of watching two modern giants at the same time.
Conclusion
The debate of Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli will never have a single answer. Kohli has the records, aggression, and legacy, while Babar has elegance, consistency, and the potential to rewrite cricket’s future. Both inspire millions, and cricket is richer because of their rivalry.