I'll try to be as good as Virat Kohli: Babar Azam

Over the last few months, cricket tragics have been into overdrive comparing Pakistan batsman Babar Azam to Virat Kohli, owing to a series of eye-catching shows by the former. However, Azam thinks that he is still behind in the race and would want to emulate the Indian skipper’s performances.

“He's (Kohli) one of the best players. I'm still behind him. I'll try to be as good as him and win matches for my country,” Babar told Cricbuzz.

Babar, who was recently anointed as the captain of the ODI side making him the captain in both white-ball formats, has often been compared to Virat Kohli and his style of play, particularly the cover drive. The 25-year-old thinks that both the batsmen look similar while batting because they come from the subcontinent.

“Asian batsmen have the same technique and strokeplay. I guess some of our shots look similar,” he said.

Notwithstanding comparisons with Virat Kohli, Babar wants to keep things simple and do his job for the national side. “I don't look to compare myself with the greats. When I'm playing, I'm not trying to show off or prove any point to anyone. For me, it's about whether I'm satisfied with my performance.

“I'm happy as long as I can help Pakistan win matches. I'm rarely satisfied with my performance because I always see room for improvement, concluded Babar.

Babar’s next big assignment will be in England later this year. Pakistan are scheduled to tour England for three Tests and as many T20Is, dates of which are yet to be finalized.