Babar Azam has etched his name as the first batter of the 2020s to achieve a significant run-scoring milestone, amassing 9,060 runs from 231 innings across 212 international matches this decade. This feat comes as Azam marked his return to Pakistan's Test side with a crucial half-century (68 off 84 balls) against Bangladesh in Sylhet, aiding his team's recovery from a precarious 79/4. While Azam's batting prowess garners attention, the persistent comparisons with Virat Kohli have become a focal point, with former players and commentators weighing in on the pressure these parallels might be exerting on the Pakistani batter.
Babar Azam's 9,060 runs this decade, averaging 42.53, solidifies his statistical standing. His recent 68 against Bangladesh, though not enough to avert a bowling-out for 232, highlights his continued ability to perform under match conditions.
Azam's Recent Form and Milestones
Azam's performance in the second Test against Bangladesh saw him score a vital 68, his 31st Test half-century. This knock also places him in elite company, with reports noting he equals Steve Smith's World Test Championship record and becomes the first Asian batter to reach 20 WTC fifties. Despite these achievements, a persistent struggle for a Test century, now spanning three years, has been noted.
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The Kohli Comparison Conundrum
The discourse surrounding Babar Azam's form has frequently invoked comparisons to Virat Kohli. Former Pakistan cricketers, including Ahmed Shehzad, have strongly criticised this tendency, arguing it places undue pressure on Azam. Shehzad stated, "You cannot even compare him with MS Dhoni," underscoring the perceived disparity and the unfairness of such comparisons. This sentiment is echoed by others who believe the constant parallel detracts from Azam's individual game and potentially impacts his confidence.
"Virat Kohli is nothing compared to Babar Azam; Kohli is zero." - Former Pakistan cricketer Mohsin Khan.
A Shifting Role and Scrutiny
Babar Azam has recently stepped down as Pakistan's captain across all formats, a move that some suggest allows him to concentrate more fully on his batting. Legends like Younis Khan have advised Azam to focus solely on his game, free from distractions and external pressures, to regain his optimal form. The narrative around Azam is complex, acknowledging his past successes while grappling with his current struggles and the intense spotlight fueled by comparisons to contemporary greats.
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Historical Context
The emergence of Babar Azam as a leading batsman has inevitably invited comparisons with established stars like Virat Kohli. This phenomenon is not unique to cricket, as players often find themselves measured against benchmarks set by earlier generations or contemporary rivals. The current decade's statistics, however, position Azam prominently in terms of accumulated runs, even as the subjective assessment of his game continues to be influenced by these ongoing comparisons.
