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For fans, cricket is a way of life — a source of joy, unity, and endless conversations. It brings people together, turning ordinary days into unforgettable moments with every boundary, wicket, and roar from the crowd. Cricket has always celebrated great rivalries—Sachin vs Lara, Ponting vs Dravid, and now, in the modern era, it’s Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli. Both represent their nations with pride and are considered among the best batsmen in the world. Their styles may differ, but the impact they’ve had on their teams is strikingly similar. With nearly a decade of international experience each, they have built loyal fan bases and left an undeniable mark on the sport.
As of June 2025, their careers have offered enough data, highlights, and milestones to draw fair comparisons. This article breaks down their stats, playing styles, tournament performances, and influence, offering a full picture of how these two cricketing titans match up.
Virat Kohli was born on November 5, 1988, in Delhi, India. He made his international debut in 2008 during an ODI match against Sri Lanka. Since then, he has become one of the most celebrated cricketers in the world. Kohli is known for his aggressive approach at the crease, combined with solid technique and a fierce competitive spirit. His intensity on the field, sharp running between the wickets, and ability to chase down targets under pressure have made him a match-winner for India. As a top-order batter, his role is crucial in setting up or chasing totals. Kohli’s elite fitness levels have revolutionized Indian cricket, inspiring a new generation of athletes to prioritize strength, stamina, and agility.
Babar Azam was born on October 15, 1994, in Lahore, Pakistan. He entered the international arena in 2015, debuting in an ODI against Zimbabwe. From his early days, Babar stood out with his stylish and graceful stroke play. His playing style is elegant and wristy, marked by perfect balance and consistency across formats. Babar has quickly established himself as the backbone of Pakistan’s batting lineup. As a top-order batter, he anchors the innings with composure and class. While his fitness level started as average, it has steadily improved over the years, showing his commitment to adapting to the modern demands of international cricket.
While Kohli is known for his hunger and aggression, Babar is known for his calm and grace under pressure. Their contrasting styles have made their rivalry even more exciting.
Virat Kohli has played 123 Test matches, scoring 9,230 runs at an impressive average of 46.85. He has 30 centuries and 31 half-centuries to his name, with a highest score of 254 not out. On the other hand, Babar Azam has featured in 59 Test matches, amassing 4,235 runs at an average of 42.77. He has scored 9 centuries and 29 fifties, with a highest score of 196. Kohli announced his retirement from Test cricket in May 2025, bringing an end to a legendary chapter in his career. Babar, though younger and still active, has been a steady performer in the format, especially in subcontinental conditions.
In One Day Internationals, Virat Kohli has played 302 matches and scored 14,181 runs at a remarkable average of 57.88. He has hit 51 centuries and 74 half-centuries, with a top score of 183. Babar Azam has participated in 131 ODIs, accumulating 6,235 runs at an average of 55.17. He has scored 19 centuries and 37 fifties, with a highest score of 158. Kohli surpassed Sachin Tendulkar’s iconic record of 49 ODI centuries during the 2023 World Cup. Meanwhile, Babar has maintained a consistently high standard, ranking among the top five ICC ODI batsmen for most years since 2019.
Virat Kohli has played 125 T20 Internationals, scoring 4,188 runs at an average of 48.69 and a strike rate of 137.9. His T20I career includes 1 century and 38 fifties, with a highest score of 122 not out. Babar Azam, in 128 matches, has scored 4,223 runs at an average of 39.83 and a strike rate of 129.8. He has notched up 3 centuries and 36 half-centuries, with a top score of 122. While Kohli leads in terms of average and strike rate, Babar’s tally of three centuries highlights his ability to convert starts. Both players have regularly topped the T20I run charts and are known for delivering in high-stakes matches.
Kohli's record in ICC tournaments is unmatched. Babar has shown promise but has not delivered as dominantly on the big stage.
|
Format |
Kohli (India) |
Babar (Pakistan) |
|
Tests |
68 matches, 40 wins |
24 matches, 10 wins |
|
ODIs |
95 matches, 65 wins |
50 matches, 28 wins |
|
T20Is |
50 matches, 30 wins |
74 matches, 42 wins |
Kohli's tenure as captain ended without an ICC trophy, but he built India into a strong overseas Test team. Babar faced leadership criticism and stepped down in 2023 before returning to white-ball captaincy in 2024.
Virat Kohli
Babar Azam
Kohli
Babar
Kohli set new standards in fitness with his diet and training. At 36, he still competes at the highest level. Babar is fit but doesn’t follow the same extreme routine. As cricket gets faster and more athletic, Babar may need to adapt further.
Virat Kohli
Babar Azam
Kohli is in a league of his own in terms of global influence. Babar is loved deeply in Pakistan and is gaining more international fans.
T20 World Cup 2021
ODI World Cup 2023
Champions Trophy 2025
When it comes to high-pressure games between India and Pakistan, Kohli has consistently performed, while Babar has been less effective.
Kohli
Babar
Both players continue to perform in limited-overs cricket. Kohli may retire after the 2026 T20 World Cup. Babar, at 30, is entering his prime.
Kohli’s legacy is already secured: records, consistency, and leadership. He redefined Indian cricket’s fitness culture and brought a fearless approach. Babar’s legacy is still unfolding. If he wins an ICC trophy or crosses the 10,000-run barrier in ODIs, he could become Pakistan’s greatest-ever batter.
When it comes to Test performance, Virat Kohli holds a clear advantage with more centuries, runs, and experience. In ODIs, Kohli also dominates with a higher run tally and a record number of centuries, including breaking Tendulkar’s record. Babar Azam, however, takes the lead in T20I centuries, having scored three compared to Kohli’s one.
In ICC tournaments, Kohli’s contributions have been more significant and consistent, making him the standout performer in major events. Kohli also has a better overall captaincy record, having led India to many notable series wins. In terms of technique and elegance, Babar’s graceful stroke play gives him an edge in aesthetic appeal.
Fitness and longevity clearly favor Kohli, who has set high standards for physical conditioning and continues to perform at age 36. Finally, in terms of global fan base and brand value, Kohli is in a league of his own, with unmatched social media following and worldwide recognition.
Both are giants of their generation. Kohli’s numbers and impact are unmatched, but Babar’s journey is still in progress. Rather than choosing one, fans should celebrate both.
Their rivalry isn’t just about stats—it’s about pride, passion, and two cricketing nations with rich histories. Babar vs Kohli isn’t just a battle of runs, it’s a story of two artists painting the canvas of modern cricket.
Both are giants of their generation. Kohli’s numbers and impact are unmatched, but Babar’s journey is still in progress. Rather than choosing one, fans should celebrate both.
Their rivalry isn’t just about stats—it’s about pride, passion, and two cricketing nations with rich histories. Babar vs Kohli isn’t just a battle of runs, it’s a story of two artists painting the canvas of modern cricket.
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