India’s crushing 61-run win over Pakistan in Colombo reignited the long-running debate between Virat Kohli and Babar Azam, with Dinesh Karthik delivering a scathing assessment of the former Pakistan skipper.
Babar’s dismissal in a high-pressure chase drew sharp criticism from Karthik, who questioned both the shot selection and the thinking behind it. Babar attempted an aggressive attack early in the innings and perished at a time when Pakistan needed stability rather than risk.
For Karthik, the moment was symbolic.
‘IT’S THE SERVE, NOT THE SIZE’
Speaking on Cricbuzz after the match, Karthik said he found the comparison between Kohli and Babar “a bit unfair” – but used the contrast to underline his point.
“I i can’t imagine Virat Kohli playing that shot so soon in shift. That’s submission,” Karthik said. “It’s not believing in what it takes to win or how to get your team closer to winning.
He argued that great players absorb pressure rather than succumb to it. According to Karthik, Kohli would look to rotate the strike, bat deep and lead the chase methodically instead of attempting a low-percentage run.
“That pressure absorption is what makes the size,” he added. “Every game can’t be easy when you come in and play a few shots.
Karthik also felt that Babar’s stroke was out of character. Known for his timing through the covers and ability to manipulate the gaps, Babar instead opted for a wild shot over midwicket despite the fielder positioned in the deep. “He’s better than that,” Karthik said, hinting that the pressure of expectation may weigh heavily on the Pakistan star.
THE NUMBERS TELL THE STORY
Babar’s recent record against India in the T20 World Cup adds context to the criticism. From his 68 in the 2021 edition, he had scores of 10, 14, 0, 13 and 5. In six matches against India, he scored 110 runs at an average of 22 and a strike rate of 123.59.
In contrast, Kohli dominated the rivalry. The former Indian captain has amassed 492 runs in 11 T20 matches against Pakistan at an average of 70.28. His memorable knock at the MCG in the 2022 T20 World Cup remains one of the greatest chases in tournament history.
Meanwhile, reports suggest that Pakistan could make bold changes ahead of their must-win clash with Namibia, with senior players. Babar Azam and Shaheen Shah Afridi are likely to be rested after the defeat in Colombo.
Karthik went further to claim that Babar is “nowhere close” to being the best in the world right now and backs India’s Abhishek Sharma as a global in-form player.
In one brutal comparison, Karthik may well have changed the tone of the Kohli versus Babar debate – possibly for good.
– The end
Issued by:
Amar Panicker
Published on:
February 17, 2026