To compare Babar Azam with Virat Kohli at this stage is too early: Wasim Akram

Wasim Akram, a veteran Pakistani bowler, believes it is naive to compare Babar Azam to the former India skipper Virat Kohli, who has been in the setup for way longer than Babar. The Pakistan skipper is currently the only batter from all over the world who is placed in the top three of ICC rankings across all three formats.

The exceptional batter has established a strong global reputation and frequently receives comparisons to Kohli, who is already considered a legend in the cricketing community. Even though the Indian batting legend hasn’t been playing at his best lately, his most recent international hundred dating back to November 2019, the considerably younger Babar appears to be at the prime of his career and excelling in all formats.

“First of all, let me start by saying that criticism from Indian fans against Kohli has been unnecessary. He is one of the greatest of all time, not just in this era. He is still fit as a fiddle. He is still one of the best fielders in the Indian squad. As they say class is forever and that is Virat Kohli. Hope he doesn’t come back to form against Pakistan but he will come back eventually,” said Akram in a press conference organized by Star Sports.

Babar Azam is absolutely on the right track to be one of the modern greats: Akram

When India plays Pakistan on Sunday in Dubai, in what will be the campaign opener of the Asia Cup for both teams, all eyes will be on Virat Kohli. After a brief break from the West Indies and Zimbabwe away series, Kohli will enter the game with a clear head. While on the other hand, the former Pakistani captain, Akram, claimed it is still a little early to compare Babar to Kohli.

“The comparisons are only natural. Babar has been very consistent because he has got the right technique. He is very hungry and very fit. He is still a young captain but is learning very fast. However, comparisons with Virat it is too early. Babar is on the right track to be where Virat Kohli is but to compare him with him at this stage is too early. But he is absolutely on the right track to be one of the modern greats,” Akram added.