Cricket, a game where legends are born, has always been a canvas for extraordinary stories. In the days of yore, we were blessed with the majestic presence of Sachin Tendulkar, whose graceful strokes and determination made him an idol for aspiring cricketers. And who could forget the illustrious Ricky Ponting, whose fierce competitiveness and spirit instilled fear in the hearts of opponents?
But as the wheel of time turns, a new chapter unfolds, introducing us to a quartet of modern-day maestros, affectionately known as the “Fab-4” – whose full form is the Fabulous Four. The Fab-4 are the modern-day greats: Virat Kohli, Steve Smith, Joe Root and Kane Williamson. However recently we have seen the Fab Four change.
A Fab Four Change: What Aakash Chopra Has To Say?
In the landscape of Test cricket, the notion of the “Fab Four” has seen a shift, according to the renowned cricket commentator Aakash Chopra. While the term previously encompassed four exceptional batsmen, including the prodigious Virat Kohli, the current scenario, as per Chopra’s analysis, showcases a slightly different composition.
According to him, the esteemed and illustrious trio now consists of the indomitable Kane Williamson, Joe Root, and Steve Smith. While others may be knocking on the door like the illustrious and young Pakistani star batsman Babar Azam, Chopra suggests that, for the time being, these three remarkable individuals hold the mantle of Test cricket’s current “Fab Three. Is this Fab Four change appropriate?
“There is no Fab four now in Test Cricket. Virat Kohli is out of it. Babar Azam has scored runs and he can be part of it but not yet. For now, it is Fab three with Kane [Williamson], [Joe] Root and [Steve] Smith”.
What Simon Duoll Said About The Inclusion Of Babar Azam In The Fab 4
When it comes to the inclusion of Babar Azam in the esteemed “Fab Four,” the sentiments expressed by Simon Doull, the esteemed cricket commentator, resonate with the prevailing sentiments of many cricket enthusiasts. Doull acknowledges that in the present cricketing landscape, few can dispute Babar Azam’s claim to being the premier player in the world.
His batting prowess, particularly in the top order, is nothing short of exceptional, with consistency in his batting. While Joe Root, too, presents a compelling argument for his place in the elite group, Doull suggests that in the current era, the spotlight is firmly on Babar Azam naming him the Big One.
“Not many could argue that Babar Azam is the best player in the world at the moment. As far as batting in that top order is concerned, he is unbelievable. Joe Root’s got an argument for that too. They talk about the big four, at the moment, he’s the big one”
Also Read: From ICC Awards to World Cup Glory: Babar Azam’s Ambitions Unveiled
The Performance Of Virat Kohli Recently In Test
Virat Kohli, a name that resonates with power and finesse in the realm of Test cricket, boasts an impressive overall record that showcases his immense contributions to the Indian cricket team. Over the course of 109 matches and 185 innings, Kohli has amassed a staggering total of 8,479 runs. With an impressive average of 48.72, Kohli has been phenomenal in his career. A remarkable feat indeed, accentuated by his 28 centuries, solidifying his reputation as a true run-making machine.
However, it is worth noting that Kohli’s recent statistics from the period spanning 2020 to 2023 have presented a different narrative. In this timeframe, encompassing 25 matches and 48 innings, the former Indian captain has encountered a dip in his form. Accumulating 1,277 runs at an average of 29.76, his recent performances have not mirrored his previous glories. With only one century to his name during this period, it marks a departure from his customary dominance.
Also Read: Is This The End Of Virat Kohli?
The Performance Of Babar Azam In Test
Babar Azam, the young Pakistani batting sensation, has carved his own path in the world of Test cricket, leaving an indelible mark with his remarkable performances. With 47 test matches and 85 innings under his belt, Azam has accumulated a commendable tally of 3,696 runs, exhibiting his exceptional batting prowess. With an impressive average of 48.63, he has consistently proven his mettle against formidable opponents. Notably, Azam has already registered nine centuries in his career, further cementing his status as a rising star.
However, it is in recent years, from 2020 to 2023, that Babar Azam’s talent has truly blossomed. In this period, across 22 matches and 38 innings, he has amassed a staggering 1,989 runs at an outstanding average of 49.35. This remarkable display of consistency and skill has seen him notch an additional five centuries to his name.
Should Babar Azam Be Swapped With Virat Kohli In Tests Fab Four?
The question of whether Babar Azam should replace Virat Kohli in the revered Test Fab Four change ignites intense debate among cricket enthusiasts. When scrutinizing the statistics, Babar Azam’s exceptional performances emerge as a compelling argument in his favour. With 47 test matches and 85 innings, Azam has showcased his class by accumulating 3,696 runs at an impressive average of 48.63, including nine centuries. Moreover, his recent form from 2020 to 2023 solidifies his case even further.
In this period, Azam has notched up 22 matches and 38 innings, amassing a staggering 1,989 runs at an outstanding average of 49.35, accompanied by five centuries.
On the other hand, while Virat Kohli’s overall Test record is undeniably remarkable, his recent stats from 2020 to 2023 paint a different picture. In this period, Kohli has played 25 matches and 48 innings, scoring 1,277 runs at an average of 29.76, with only one hundred to his name. While acknowledging the ebb and flow of form in a player’s career, it is worth pondering whether the dynamic performances of Babar Azam could warrant a potential swap in the coveted Test Fab Four change.
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