Image Source: AFP
[Saba Sports News] In 2022, amidst one of the most challenging periods of his career, Virat Kohli received a supportive message from Pakistan’s leading batsman, Babar Azam, via Twitter. The friendship and mutual respect between Babar and Virat are well documented, with Babar recently sharing insights into the guidance he has received from Virat, though keeping the details of their discussions private.
Babar has been struggling to find his form since the 2023 World Cup, managing only a handful of half-centuries in T20Is against New Zealand and lacking his characteristic fluency. The two cricketers had a chance to meet during the Asia Cup 2023 and again when India faced Pakistan in the World Cup.
In an interview with Zalmi TV, Babar discussed his habit of seeking advice from peers like Virat, Steve Smith, and Kane Williamson during international matches. He specifically mentioned a productive conversation with Kohli but chose to keep the details confidential.
“I always try and talk to him whenever we play against each other. I always ask him few questions and he helps me with it. Not only him, I also talk a lot to Steve Smith and Kane Williamson, when we play against Australia and New Zealand, respectively. I had a good chat with Virat Kohli, there are things that we talk about that I can’t share here but it was fruitful,” Babar shared.
Reflecting on playing against India in Ahmedabad during the World Cup, Babar was struck by the overwhelming presence of Indian fans in blue but was pleasantly surprised by the support Pakistan received at other venues. He didn’t expect the Indian crowd to back Pakistan and was touched by the warmth and appreciation shown towards his team, marking his first visit to India as a memorable and eye-opening experience.
“It was a different vibe. The entire stadium was see of blue. You are playing in India, you can expect it. But in other venues, we also received exceptional support. I was not expecting it from India. I was not expecting it at all. It was my first time in India and I had no knowledge about the country. It was a different experience. It was their love, Indian people gave us so much love, they appreciated our cricket,” he added.