In cricket, India's Virat Kohli and Pakistan's Babar Azam continue to compete fiercely but amicably. Both are excellent modern batters who can win games by themselves. They are also graceful and dependable. Virat Kohli is 36 years and 219 days old, and Babar Azam is 30 years and 240 days old as of June 2025. Even if their travels differ in terms of speed and exposure, comparisons between them are inevitable.
Virat Kohli is renowned globally for his perseverance, physical strength, and ability to achieve objectives under pressure. Because of his unmatched peak years and combative temperament, he was considered one of cricket's greatest in all forms. He has been instrumental in India's victories in several bilateral series and ICC competitions.
In contrast, Babar Azam infuses the crease with elegance and serenity. Because of his technical skill and poise, he is Pakistan's most reliable batsman in all formats. His enduring strokeplay and dependability have made him a fan favorite and a record-setter, especially in ODIs.
Both players have succeeded with very different personalities: Kohli, the fiery leader; Babar, the elegant craftsman. The choice between them often boils down to personal preference.
Kohli was already well-known throughout the world at the age of 27. Among his more than 7,600 international runs were more than 25 hundreds. He was well regarded in T20Is and Tests and averaged more over 52 in ODIs. By then, Kohli had established himself as a leader and had made game-winning knocks in stressful situations.
In contrast, Babar Azam at 27 had scored around 7,200 runs across formats. While slightly behind Kohli in total runs, he held a superior ODI average near 59 and was ranked among the world's top batters. His Test average was close to 47, and he was already a dependable figure in T20s. While Kohli had a more explosive impact by 27, Babar offered more consistency and fewer dips in form.
At 30, Babar Azam is in the prime of his career. In T20s and leagues, he has played 320 matches, scoring 11,330 runs at an average of 43.07 and a strike rate of 129.33. He has notched up 11 centuries and 93 fifties, with 1,196 fours and 214 sixes. His overall calm presence and adaptability in various conditions have made him the backbone of Pakistan's batting unit.
Kohli, at 30, had already crossed major career milestones. He had played over 400 T20/league matches, scored 13,543 runs with a strike rate of 134.67, and an average of 41.92. He had 9 centuries and 105 fifties, with a slightly better six-hitting ability (435 sixes) and 74 not outs compared to Babar's 46.
In terms of fielding, Kohli had 185 catches, while Babar had 147. Both occasionally bowled, with Kohli taking 8 wickets (best 2/25), and Babar 4 wickets (best 2/20).
Statistically, Kohli had more matches, runs, and impact knocks, but Babar's averages and control are remarkably consistent at this age.
Both of their impact is reflected in their brand value, which goes beyond cricketing statistics. Virat Kohli's own fashion business, One8, IPL revenue, and BCCI contracts are the main sources of his projected $126-127 million net worth.
Babar Azam owns PCB central contract, PSL profits, and brand deals in Pakistan,which have contributed to his estimated $10–15 million net worth. Despite being far less than Kohli's, Babar's market value is nevertheless rising gradually.
No doubt , Virat Kohli's dominant performances, remarkable knocks, and massive global fan base have made him a legendbut Babar Azam, who is still in his prime, is not far away in leaving a legacy of consistency, elegance, and leadership.