'Virat Kohli is zero compared to Babar Azam', Former Pakistan coach drops bold claim

Former Pakistan interim head coach Mohsin Khan has made bold statements while comparing Pakistan's star batter Babar Azam with India’s Virat Kohli, calling the latter a “zero.”

In an interview, Mohsin was asked about the ongoing comparison between Babar and Kohli, especially in light of Babar’s recent struggles with the bat. 

Mohsin, who previously served as Pakistan’s chief selector, responded by saying, “Virat Kohli is nothing compared to Babar Azam; he is zero.” 

However, he emphasized that the real issue is not the comparison, but the state of Pakistan cricket. 

“The real problem is that Pakistan cricket is completely ruined. There is no planning, strategy, merit, or accountability,” Mohsin stated. 

He expressed disappointment over Pakistan's lack of success in recent tournaments, criticizing how personal benefits and motives have affected the team’s performance. 

“In the past, we failed to qualify for the next round. It is shameful how our cricket has declined because of this. As long as recommendations are involved, anyone can be selected for the team. When I was the chief selector, I made selections with the grace of Allah, always choosing the best possible team,” he said.

Reflecting on his time as head coach, Mohsin said, “I sincerely worked for the Pakistan Cricket Board, and my results as head coach show my hard work. My goal was always to push Pakistan cricket forward.”

Babar Azam, who has been under intense scrutiny due to his recent batting form, has not scored a century since his 151-run knock against Nepal in August 2023. The right-handed batter, who has been promoted to open the innings for the ongoing ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 and the recent tri-nation ODI series, has struggled to produce significant scores. In five innings, Babar has managed scores of 10, 23, 29, 64, and 23, leaving fans and critics questioning his form.