Introduction – Rivalry Explained

Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli is one of the most talked-about comparisons in modern cricket. Both batters are known for their elegant batting, consistency and ability to perform under pressure. While Virat Kohli has built an outstanding record across all three formats, Babar Azam has also established himself as one of Pakistan’s finest modern-day batters.

But who has the better record? In this detailed comparison, we’ll look at Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli stats across Test, ODI and T20I cricket, including total runs, batting averages, strike rates, centuries and other major records. We’ll also compare their head-to-head performances, captaincy records and achievements to see where each player stands.

Whether you’re searching for Babar Azam’s record against Kohli or comparing their overall batting careers, this side-by-side breakdown will help you understand who has the edge. But who is better in 2026? Let’s break it down with stats, records, Asia Cup numbers, captaincy, and expert opinions.

Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli Career Stats (All Formats)

ODIs

ODI Comparison: Who Has the Better Record?

When it comes to ODI cricket, Virat Kohli clearly has the edge over Babar Azam in terms of overall performance and experience. Kohli has scored 15,109 runs in 305 matches, including an impressive 55 centuries and 79 half-centuries. His batting average of 58.78 also highlights his remarkable consistency at the highest level.

Babar Azam, meanwhile, has made an excellent start to his ODI career, scoring 6,744 runs in 144 matches at an average of 52.68, with 20 centuries and 38 half-centuries. His average is competitive, showing that he can maintain a high level of consistency, but he still has a considerable gap to cover in total runs, centuries and international experience.

Overall, in Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli ODIs stats, Virat Kohli is ahead in ODI cricket based on the available statistics. He leads in matches played, total runs, batting average, centuries and half-centuries, while Babar remains a strong competitor with an impressive average and plenty of potential to build his record further.

Tests

Test Comparison: Who Has the Better Record?

Virat Kohli holds a clear advantage over Babar Azam in Test cricket based on their overall batting records. Kohli has scored 9,230 runs in 123 matches at an average of 46.85, including 30 centuries and 31 half-centuries. His highest score of 254* also highlights his ability to play long, match-defining innings in the longest format.

Babar Azam has also shown his quality in Test cricket, scoring 4,771 runs in 66 matches at an average of 42.98. He has registered 9 centuries and 34 half-centuries, with a highest score of 196. Although Babar has a slightly higher number of half-centuries relative to his appearances, Kohli’s overall record is stronger in terms of runs, average, centuries and big individual scores.

Overall, in Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli Test stats, Virat Kohli is ahead in Test cricket according to these statistics. His greater run tally, higher batting average and significantly more centuries give him the advantage over Babar Azam in the longest format.

T20Is

T20I Comparison: Who Has the Better Record?

The T20I comparison between Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli is much closer, with both players having different strengths. Babar Azam has scored more runs than Kohli, with 4,596 runs in 145 matches compared to Kohli’s 4,188 runs in 125 matches. Babar also leads in centuries and half-centuries, recording 3 hundreds and 39 fifties, while Kohli has 1 hundred and 38 fifties.

However, Kohli’s biggest advantage comes from his batting average and strike rate. His average of 48.69 is significantly higher than Babar’s 38.94, while his strike rate of 137.04 is also better than Babar’s 128.02. These numbers highlight Kohli’s ability to score quickly while maintaining consistency in T20I cricket.

Overall, in Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli ODIs stats, Kohli has the stronger T20I batting average and strike rate, whereas Babar leads in total runs and centuries. This makes their T20I comparison more competitive, with each batter having a different statistical advantage.

Asia Cup Records: Virat Kohli vs Babar Azam

T20

ODI’s

Asia Cup Comparison: Virat Kohli Takes a Clear Lead

Virat Kohli has been far more successful than Babar Azam in the Asia Cup, particularly when it comes to scoring runs and maintaining a high batting average. In the T20 format, Kohli has scored 429 runs in 10 matches at an outstanding average of 85.80, including a century and three half-centuries. Babar, on the other hand, has managed just 68 runs in 6 matches at an average of 11.33, without registering a fifty or a hundred.

The difference is also visible in the ODI format. Kohli has accumulated 742 runs in 13 matches at an average of 61.83, with four centuries and one half-century. Babar has scored 363 runs in 10 matches, including one century and one half-century. Although Babar has produced some notable performances, his overall Asia Cup numbers remain behind Kohli’s.

Overall, in Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli Asia Cup stats, Kohli has a significantly stronger Asia Cup record in both formats. His higher run tally, exceptional averages and greater number of centuries give him a clear advantage over Babar Azam in this competition.

IPL vs PSL Performance

IPL vs PSL Comparison: Kohli and Babar’s Franchise Records

Virat Kohli has built a remarkable record in the Indian Premier League (IPL), scoring 9,336 runs in 283 matches at an average of 40.42. His nine centuries and 68 half-centuries highlight his long-term impact and ability to deliver big scores in one of the world’s most competitive T20 leagues.

Babar Azam has also been highly consistent in the Pakistan Super League (PSL). He has scored 4,380 runs in 111 matches at an impressive average of 47.09, including four centuries and 39 half-centuries. Although his total runs are lower than Kohli’s, Babar’s higher batting average reflects his strong individual consistency in the PSL.

Overall, Kohli leads in total runs, matches played and centuries, while Babar has the better batting average. Kohli’s IPL record demonstrates greater overall volume and longevity, whereas Babar’s PSL numbers highlight his excellent consistency in the tournament.

Captaincy Records: Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli

Virat Kohli: 213 matches, 135 wins, win percentage: 63.38%. Led India to its first-ever Test series victory in Australia (2018–19) and established a strong overseas Test record.

Babar Azam: 152 matches, 85 wins, win percentage: 55.92%. Led Pakistan to the 2022 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup final

Cover Drive Debate – Who Plays It Better?

Virat Kohli and Babar Azam are widely admired for their beautiful cover drives, but both have different styles of playing this classic cricket shot. Babar Azam is known for his smooth technique, relaxed stance and elegant bat swing. His high-elbow follow-through and effortless timing make his cover drive look graceful and stylish. Many cricket fans consider him one of the finest players of this shot in modern cricket.

Virat Kohli, on the other hand, brings a more aggressive approach to the cover drive. His strong footwork, controlled bat swing and excellent timing allow him to play the shot with confidence and authority. Kohli uses it not only to find boundaries but also to put pressure on bowlers and score important runs in different match situations.

So, who plays the better cover drive, in Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli? When it comes to pure elegance and visual beauty, Babar Azam has a slight edge. However, Kohli’s cover drive stands out for its control, attacking intent and effectiveness. Ultimately, both players have their own unique style, making this one of cricket’s most enjoyable debates.

Fitness & Discipline: Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli

Fitness and discipline play an important role in a cricketer’s performance and career. Virat Kohli is widely known for his strict fitness routine, disciplined diet and intense training. His commitment to fitness has helped him maintain high energy levels and perform consistently across formats.

Babar Azam has also been working on improving his fitness and physical conditioning. However, Kohli is generally considered to have an edge in this area because of his stronger fitness standards and long-term commitment to physical training. Both players understand the importance of fitness, but Kohli currently sets a higher benchmark in this comparison.

Fan Following & Global Impact

Virat Kohli has a massive global fan following, with around 271 million Instagram followers. His popularity goes beyond cricket, making him a well-known face for international brands and major advertising campaigns.

Babar Azam is also a major sports personality, especially in Pakistan, with around 6.5 million Instagram followers. He represents Pakistan cricket on the global stage and has a strong fan base among cricket lovers.

Expert Opinions on Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli

Several former cricketers and cricket experts have shared their views on the comparison between Babar Azam and Virat Kohli.

• Waqar Younis (Former Pakistan Captain): During a rapid-fire interview with Shubhankar Mishra, Waqar Younis was asked to choose between Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli. He picked Kohli, showing that he considers him the better player overall.
• Ricky Ponting (Former Australia Captain): Ponting has praised Babar’s natural batting talent and excellent technique. He believes Babar has the ability to reach Kohli’s level, but he needs to maintain his performance and consistency over a longer period.
• Shoaib Akhtar (Former Pakistan Fast Bowler): Akhtar described Babar as a talented and quality batter, but said Kohli has already achieved legendary status through his career and performances.
• Harsha Bhogle (Cricket Commentator): Bhogle highlighted the difference in their careers by describing Kohli as a player who has dominated both the past and present of cricket, while Babar represents the current generation and its future.
• Azam Khan (Pakistan Cricketer): Azam Khan explained that Babar has helped improve Pakistan’s image in international batting, much like Kohli did for India. He also pointed out that Kohli played alongside experienced stars such as Sachin Tendulkar and MS Dhoni, while Babar often had greater responsibility in Pakistan’s batting lineup.
• Virat Kohli on Babar Azam: Kohli has also praised Babar’s batting ability. He described him as one of the best batters in world cricket and appreciated his humble and respectful personality.

These opinions show that both players have earned respect from the cricket world. While some experts give Kohli the edge because of his achievements, others recognize Babar’s talent and potential.

Final Verdict – Who Is Better in 2026?

• Virat Kohli: Already a legend with records across formats, big-match performances, and unmatched fan following.
• Babar Azam: Stylish, consistent, and chasing Kohli’s milestones at a rapid pace.

👉 Answer: Kohli is still ahead overall, but Babar is closing the gap and could be the future king of cricket.

FAQs: Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli

Q1: Who has better stats – Babar Azam or Virat Kohli?
👉 Kohli leads in total runs and centuries, Babar leads in average at this stage.

Q2: Who is better in Asia Cup?
👉 Virat Kohli, with three centuries and highest score of 183.

Q3: Who is more consistent in chases?
👉 Virat Kohli is called the “Chase Master”.

Q4: Who is the Cover Drive King – Virat Kohli vs Babar Azam?
👉 Babar Azam’s cover drive is often rated as more elegant.

Q5: Who has bigger fan following?
👉 Virat Kohli, with 271M+ followers, compared to Babar’s 6M+.

Who is the fastest bowler in PSL history? Click the link below to find out, and stay connected with us for more updates.