Statistical analysis reveals compelling insights as cricket titans Virat Kohli and Babar Azam prepare to face off in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, where India and Pakistan renew their historic rivalry.
Recent performances have put both batters under scrutiny. Babar Azam scored 64 runs from 90 deliveries in Pakistan's opening loss to New Zealand, while Virat Kohli managed 22 runs off 38 balls against Bangladesh.
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Career milestone comparison: 127 ODI matches
Babar Azam's statistics at the 127-ODI mark showcase his batting prowess
- 6,083 runs at 55.8 average
- Strike rate of 87.9
- 19 centuries
- 35 half-centuries
Virat Kohli's numbers at the same career point
- 5,355 runs at 52.5 average
- Strike rate of 89.6
- 18 centuries
- 29 half-centuries
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Champions Trophy performance analysis
Virat Kohli's Champions Trophy record spans four tournaments (2009-2025)
- 551 runs in 14 matches
- 78.71 average
- 90.18 strike rate
- Five half-centuries
- Highest score: 96 not out
Babar Azam's Champions Trophy statistics
- 197 runs in six matches
- 49.25 average
- 73.50 strike rate
- One half-century
- Highest score: 64
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Current form assessment
Both batsmen face similar challenges against spin bowling. Kohli has fallen to leg-spinners in his last three ODI innings, while Babar's two-year record shows vulnerability against spin bowlers.
The upcoming India-Pakistan clash in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 presents an opportunity for both players to overcome recent challenges and add another chapter to their storied careers.
Expert analysis suggests the match outcome could hinge on how these premier batsmen handle pressure and adapt to conditions, particularly against spin bowling.
