Who is king of cricket Babar or Kohli? Detailed Analysis 2024

Cricket, the 'gentleman's game', is a sport where legends are born and comparisons are inevitable. In recent times, two names have consistently dominated discussions - Babar Azam from Pakistan and Virat Kohli from India. While both are exceptionally talented with a stellar track record, the question remains: Who is the real king? Your next read will answer this question for sure! A detailed analysis of statistics, case studies, and crucial match phases to unveil the undisputed "King" of Cricket!

Statistics Talks

Since Cricket is a number's game, we will be talking in facts by covering the core factors that we generally use to consider a player to be in that "Elite Club of Legends".

Age Discrepancy

Whenever the grand debate about the 'King of Cricket' begins, a common refrain is the age difference between our stalwarts. But here's a twist! To give everyone a level playing field, we're comparing stats from the exact age bracket. We've looked at Virat Kohli's record up until he touched 30, and, interestingly, Babar Azam is just on the cusp of entering his 30s. So, with both legends at similar life stages, let's take a quick look at the stats and see how they stack up, shall we?

Batting Averages

Virat Kohli: As of the last update, Kohli boasts an impressive ODI average of over 50 and a Test average nearing the 55 mark. His consistency across formats is unparalleled.

Babar Azam: Azam, though relatively younger in his career, holds a commendable ODI average close to 56. His Test average is around 44, showing promise and room for growth.

Centuries and Fifties

Both batsmen have a plethora of centuries and fifties across formats. However, Kohli's conversion rate from fifties to hundreds is slightly higher, indicating his ability to capitalize on starts.

Strike Rates

Now, here's where the plot thickens! Some voices often point out that by the time he was 30, Virat Kohli had already played more matches than Babar Azam. And why wouldn't he? Our very own Kohli kickstarted his journey early on, showcasing his exceptional cricketing genius amidst the fierce competition right here in India. And guess what's even more fascinating? At this juncture, Kohli not only matches but also surpasses Babar Azam iwth the "Strike Rates" across all three cricketing formats. Quite the feat, isn't it?

📚📕🕮Case Studies: The Crucial Matches

Babar Azam's Knock against New Zealand (T20 World Cup):

In a do-or-die match against New Zealand, Azam scored a sublime century, showcasing his ability to handle pressure. His innings was laced with exquisite strokes and was pivotal in Pakistan's victory.

Virat Kohli's Chase Masterclass (2016 WT20):

An epic Super Four clash against Pakistan in Asia Cup, 2023, our very own Virat Kohli played a gem of an innings. He smashed an unbeaten 122 runs off just 94 balls, sprinkling in 9 boundaries and sending 3 biggies over the ropes. Thanks to his masterclass, India posted a massive 356/2 on the board. And the cherry on top? Pakistan couldn't quite keep up and were bundled out for a mere 128. What a day for Indian cricket!

Also, Picture this! T20 World Cup 2016, and the stage was set. Against the mighty Australians, Virat Kohli turned into a one-man army! With his willow singing, he crafted an unbeaten 82 off a mere 51 deliveries. And here's where it gets even more exhilarating: in those crucial final moments, Kohli blazed away, scoring 33 runs from just 13 balls! His synergy with our former skipper, MS Dhoni, was pure magic. Together, they steered the ship, making sure Australia had no chance. What a night that was for Indian cricket!

Pressure Situations: The Deciders

While both batsmen are adept at scoring throughout an innings, Kohli's proficiency in the death overs, especially in chasing, sets him apart. His ability to find gaps, run hard, and find boundaries under pressure is unparalleled.

In crunch situations, Kohli's temperament shines. Whether it's chasing a daunting total or rebuilding after early wickets, he often leads from the front. Azam, too, has shown glimpses of his ability to anchor an innings, but his experience in high-pressure scenarios is still evolving.

Virat Kohli & Babar Azam Career Statistics Combined before Age 30:

Babar Azam: Notable Achievements before turning 30

1. Second fastest Asian batsman to reach 3000 runs in ODI cricket (68 innings).
2. Fastest player to score 5000 runs in ODI cricket (97 innings).
3. Most runs in the first 25 innings of a player's career (1306 runs).

Virat Kohli: Notable Achievements before turning 30

1. Fastest to 8,000, 9,000, 10,000, 11,000, and 12,000 ODI runs.
2. Only batsman to average over 50 in all three formats of the game atleast one point before turning 30.
3. Holds multiple records for the fastest centuries and half-centuries in ODIs.
4. Former Captain of "Indian Cricket Team".

These statistics underscore Kohli's extraordinary talent, consistency, and adaptability across formats, cementing his status as one of the modern greats of the game.

The Undisputed "King of Cricket"

Comparing Babar Azam and Virat Kohli is akin to comparing a master artist with just artist; I understand both bring unique strokes and strategies to the crease, however, when it comes to the "King of Cricket", Virat Kohli definitely is the undisputed King even, if we summarize the King Kohli's record till 30 years of his age. Also, Kohli's experience and proven track record in crunch situations tilt the scales in his favor undoubtedly, but we cannot ignore Azam's potential and skill set promises a future where this debate might see a different conclusion.