Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has urged fans to stop comparing Babar Azam with Virat Kohli, insisting the two operate in “different leagues”.

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Pathan’s remarks came after Babar managed just five off seven balls in Pakistan’s heavy defeat to India in the T20 World Cup 2026 clash in Colombo.

Since his 68 against India in the 2021 T20 World Cup, Babar’s returns in the rivalry have dipped sharply. His scores read 10, 14, 0, 13 and 5, taking his tally to 110 runs in six matches at an average of 22 and a strike-rate of 123.59.

In contrast, Kohli has amassed 492 runs in 11 T20 World Cup matches against Pakistan at an average of 70.28. That tally includes his iconic match-winning knock at the Melbourne Cricket Ground during the 2022 T20 World Cup, where he steered India to victory from a precarious position.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Pathan referenced that innings while questioning whether Babar has produced a similar performance under pressure.

“Please stop comparing Babar Azam with Virat Kohli. Kohli is in a different league,” Pathan said. “Look at his innings against Pakistan in the 2022 World Cup. Has Babar ever played such a knock under pressure? Apart from 2021, when dew played a big role, how many times has he absorbed pressure and finished games like that?”

Criticism of Babar’s approach

Pathan also criticised Babar’s shot selection during the recent defeat.

“With three wickets down, he should have batted until at least the 15th over, focused on singles and doubles and played a long innings. Even a strike rate of 120 would have been acceptable given the scoreboard pressure,” he said.

“Instead, he went for a big shot and got out. He doesn’t consistently clear boundaries at will or rotate strike freely in the middle overs against quality spin when the ball grips.”

According to Pathan, that approach contributed to Pakistan being bowled out before completing their 20 overs.

“This was a shameful defeat, no doubt about it,” he added.

‘Pakistan’s batting lacks depth’

Pathan further questioned Pakistan’s overall batting strength, arguing that once India posted 175, the contest was effectively decided.

“People are praising Pakistan’s bowling, but what about their batting?” he said. “Their batting lacks depth and a clear approach in T20 cricket. Once India reached 175, the match was practically over.”

Pakistan must now defeat Namibia in their final group-stage fixture to keep their hopes of reaching the Super 8 stage alive.