‘He’s probably the top batsman in the world’ – India’s star batter heaps praise on swashbuckling batter Babar Azam

India and Pakistan are all set to face off against each other during the Asia Cup on September 2 in Kandy, Sri Lanka, whereas the arch-rivals will again lock horns on October 14 at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad during the ODI World Cup. Notably, both Asian Giants are gearing up for the major tournaments. In addition, the Rohit Sharma side has yet to find a suitable team for the mega contest, whereas the Babar Azam side has already announced the squad for the Asia Cup and is looking into its great position ahead of the tournament.

Moreover, Pakistan skipper Babar Azam has been playing for Colombo Strikers in the Sri Lanka Premier League 2023, looking into his magnificent form and getting praise from a plethora of cricket pundits. Meanwhile, speaking on the same subject, India star batter Virat Kohli heaps praise on Pakistan skipper Babar Azam.

In addition, the right-handed batter opened up about his first meeting with Pakistan’s Opener in Manchester after the 2019 World Cup. Moreover, the 34-year-old batter says that he had great respect for Babar Azam, and that has not changed yet.

“The first interaction I had with him (Babar Azam) was during the 2019 (ODI) World Cup after the game in Manchester. I’ve known Imad (Wasim) since the Under-19 World Cup, and he said Babar wanted to have a chat. We sat down and spoke about the game. I saw a lot of regard and respect from him from day one, and that hasn’t changed,” Virat Kohli said on Star Sports, being quoted by NDTV Sports.

Babar Azam is the top batsman in the world across formats: Virat Kohli

Moreover, the Delhi-born cricketer called the Men in Green’s skipper one of the top batsmen in the world across all formats, whom the Indian cricketer enjoys watching.

“Regardless of the fact he’s probably the top batsman in the world across formats, and rightly so. Performs so consistently and I’ve always enjoyed watching him play,” he added further.