The ongoing debate over who is the superior batter between Virat Kohli and Babar Azam has fueled countless discussions among cricket enthusiasts. However, former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria recently made his views on the matter unequivocally clear. In an interview, Kaneria outright dismissed the comparison, asserting that Kohli’s record far surpasses that of Babar Azam.
For Kaneria, the debate is a non-starter. He believes that Virat Kohli’s accomplishments and influence on the game make the comparison irrelevant. Kaneria highlighted Kohli’s exceptional record, noting that his achievements in international cricket place him in a league of his own, far ahead of his Pakistani counterpart.
Kaneria also questioned the rationale behind comparing Kohli and Babar, pointing out that Kohli’s mere presence on the field exerts a significant influence—something Kaneria feels Babar Azam currently lacks. He suggested that while Babar is undoubtedly a talented player, he has yet to reach the level of impact that Kohli consistently demonstrates.
According to Kaneria, the media has played a considerable role in perpetuating these comparisons, which he believes are not based on reality. He criticized the narrative that places Babar on the same pedestal as Kohli, arguing that it distracts from appreciating the unique qualities each player brings to the game.
During the interview, Danish Kaneria said, “Who is comparing them? I am tired of hearing that people compare them. When you’re talking about comparing, look at the runs Virat has scored. He has scored runs all around the world. He is a massive player.”
He further added, “Look at his stature, when he walks onto the field, his aura itself is different and he (Babar) does not come close, forget comparing them. All that is created by the channels to sell their product. I have had a lot of questions comparing them, but I have never done it. Look at the stats. When both of them retire, do take a look at the stats.”
Do you agree with Danish Kaneria?
