Babar Azam disrespects Virat Kohli while ranking Fab Four in Tests
Pakistani Cricketer Babar Azam Ranks Fab Four in Test Cricket
Pakistani veteran cricketer Babar Azam, often compared to the legendary Virat Kohli, has recently shared his rankings for the Fab Four in red-ball cricket. Azam, known for his exceptional skills on the field, has placed Kohli third behind Steve Smith and Joe Root in terms of Test cricket rankings.
The Friendly Rivalry Between Pakistan and India
The rivalry between Pakistan and India as nations has always been intense, reflecting on the cricket field as well. However, players from both sides have shown that beyond the field, they share a mutual admiration for each other’s talents. Despite on-field altercations, players like Harbhajan Singh and Shahid Afridi have maintained strong friendships, transcending the borders.
Azam, currently playing in the Big Bash League, recently discussed his rankings for the Fab Four during a conversation with Code Sports. While the rivalry between Kohli and Azam is well-known, the Pakistani cricketer has always acknowledged and respected the Indian greats for their contributions to the sport.
Virat Kohli’s Dominance Across Formats
Virat Kohli, although retired from T20Is and Test cricket, continues to showcase his talent in the ODI format. Azam, recognizing Kohli’s unparalleled success in all formats, ranked him as the greatest cricketer to have played the game. Despite Kohli’s retirement from certain formats, his impact and influence on the game remain unmatched.
Among the Fab Four, only Joe Root continues to actively participate in all formats, with Steve Smith retiring from ODIs and Kane Williamson stepping back from T20Is last year. Azam’s rankings for the all-format players placed Kohli at the top, followed by Smith, Williamson, and Root, respectively.
Babar Azam Joining Sydney Sixers Alongside Steve Smith
Babar Azam is currently playing for the Sydney Sixers in the Big Bash League, alongside Australian veteran cricketer Steve Smith. The Sixers, based in Sydney, have brought together the two talented batters for the ongoing season. Smith, fresh off the Ashes campaign against England, has returned to feature in the BBL matches for the Sixers, forming a formidable partnership with Azam at the top of the order.
Although Smith is not part of Australia’s T20 World Cup squad for 2026, he remains committed to playing the format and has set his sights on the 2028 LA Olympics. The collaboration between Azam and Smith in the BBL has garnered attention from fans and critics alike, showcasing the camaraderie and sportsmanship between players from different nations.
In conclusion, Babar Azam’s rankings for the Fab Four and his partnership with Steve Smith in the BBL highlight the spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie that transcends boundaries in the game of cricket.
The Evolution of the Fab Four in Test Cricket
The concept of the Fab Four in Test cricket, consisting of Steve Smith, Joe Root, Virat Kohli, and Kane Williamson, has been a topic of discussion among cricket enthusiasts and analysts alike. These four batsmen have consistently showcased their prowess with the bat and have dominated the Test arena for a significant period. While each player brings a unique style and approach to their game, they all share a common goal of excellence and consistency.
Steve Smith, known for his unorthodox technique and ability to read the game, has been a formidable force in Test cricket. His remarkable comeback after the infamous ball-tampering scandal in 2018 is a testament to his resilience and determination. Joe Root, the elegant English batsman, has been a pillar of stability for the England team, leading from the front with his solid technique and astute captaincy.
Virat Kohli, often regarded as one of the best batsmen of his generation, has set numerous records across all formats of the game. His aggressive style of play and unmatched consistency have earned him a place among the cricketing greats. Kane Williamson, the New Zealand captain, is known for his calm demeanor and ability to anchor the innings in challenging conditions, making him a valuable asset for his team.
The Impact of Babar Azam in International Cricket
Babar Azam, the rising star from Pakistan, has quickly established himself as one of the premier batsmen in world cricket. His elegant stroke play and ability to adapt to different conditions have garnered praise from fans and experts alike. Azam’s rise to prominence has been meteoric, and he has shouldered the responsibility of leading the Pakistani batting line-up with grace and skill.
While comparisons to Virat Kohli are inevitable due to their similar playing styles and positions in their respective teams, Babar Azam has worked hard to carve out his own identity in the cricketing world. His focus on consistency and hunger for runs have set him apart as a player to watch out for in the coming years. Azam’s performances in all formats of the game have solidified his status as a key player for Pakistan.
The Global Appeal of T20 Leagues and Player Collaborations
The emergence of T20 leagues like the Big Bash League has provided cricketers from different countries an opportunity to showcase their skills on a global platform. The inclusion of international stars like Babar Azam and Steve Smith in the same team not only adds to the competitiveness of the league but also fosters camaraderie and mutual respect among players from diverse backgrounds.
Collaborations between players from rival nations in T20 leagues serve as a reminder of the unifying power of sport, transcending boundaries and promoting goodwill among competitors. The interactions between Babar Azam and Steve Smith on and off the field exemplify the sportsmanship and camaraderie that define the spirit of cricket.
In conclusion, Babar Azam’s rankings for the Fab Four reflect his appreciation for the talent and achievements of his fellow cricketers, while his partnership with Steve Smith in the BBL underscores the shared passion and respect that players from different nations have for the game. As cricket continues to evolve, the camaraderie and mutual admiration among players will remain integral to the spirit of the sport.


