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In the dynamic and fiercely competitive landscape of modern-day cricket, where the clash of willow against leather is an art form, very few names resonate as the paragon of batting mastery in this era. The title of the best batter is not merely an accolade but a recognition of an individual whose prowess with the bat transcends statistical milestones, embodying the essence of a true run-scoring artisan.
In this era, the role of a batter has evolved beyond mere run accumulation; it has become a reflection of innovation, adaptability, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. What sets the best batter of this era apart is not just the sheer volume of runs but an amalgamation of technique, temperament, and an unparalleled ability to decode the complexities of modern-day cricket.
Shoaib Akhtar compares the two batting maestros
When it comes to the modern-day cricket, players like Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson, Steve Smith, Joe Root and Babar Azam are considered as great batters. Regarding the same, Shoaib Akhtar, the legendary figure in Pakistan cricket, has expressed his opinion on who he reckons to be the best batter of the current era.
In a recent statement made on the sidelines of the International League T20 (ILT20) in the UAE, Akhtar drew parallels between cricketing legends Sachin Tendulkar and Kohli, asserting that Kohli would have thrived even in the era when Tendulkar graced the cricketing stage. Akhtar, who is the brand ambassador and commentator for the second season of ILT20, offered insights into the dynamics of batting prowess across eras.
Speaking with an air of admiration for Tendulkar’s legacy, Akhtar highlighted the challenges the Little Master faced in an era where the cricket ball would reverse swing against some of the finest bowlers globally. Emphasizing the stark differences in playing conditions, Akhtar suggested that if Tendulkar were to play today, he would have amassed an even more prolific run tally.
“Back then, Sachin was playing with one ball, which would reverse swing against some of the best bowlers in the world. There was only one circle. Today, Sachin would have made a lot of runs. He is the greatest ever with Ricky Ponting, Brian Lara, etc. Wasim Akram and Shane Warne too. Virat would have been competitive (in our era),” stated Akhtar.
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Akhtar reveals the best batter of current era
While acknowledging the challenges that Kohli might have faced against the bowlers of Akhtar’s era, the Rawalpindi Express unequivocally hailed Kohli as the preeminent batter of the contemporary generation. Expressing his desire to witness Kohli achieve the elusive milestone of a hundred international centuries, Akhtar commended the former Indian skipper’s remarkable record of 80 centuries across formats, placing him within touching distance of Tendulkar’s iconic tally.
“He could have faced difficulties, but he would have scored the runs he has scored now. We would have faced a similar beating. But playing Wasim Akram is not easy. Virat is Virat. He is the greatest batsman of this era. Both eras cannot be compared. Hats off to him. I want him to get a hundred centuries,” added Akhtar.
