Asia Cup 2022: Sri Lanka Legend Sanath Jayasuriya Gives Verdict On Virat Kohli vs Babar Azam Debate With Epic Reply: 'My Son's Favourite Player Too'

The debate over who is the better of Virat Kohli and Babar Azam, two of the finest batters in the world of cricket right now, continues among fans and analysts.

Despite India’s elimination from the Asia Cup, Virat Kohli was in excellent form and scored 122 runs off only 61 balls in their final Super 4 match against Afghanistan. With that performance, he also broke the record for most runs scored in a single T20I inning in India.

Sanath Jayasuriya Picks Virat Kohli Over Babar Azam

Sanath Jayasuriya, a renowned cricketer for Sri Lanka, chose to participate in the discussion and provide his viewpoint.

Speaking to Sportskeeda Cricket, he said, “I like Virat Kohli. He is my favourite player and also my son’s favourite player too.” 

Former head coach Ravi Shastri also gave the former captain accolades. Speaking on Star Sports, Shasti said, “I think what today’s innings of Virat Kohli has done, is that it has thrown the spanner in the works. It is allowed now for the selectors to think, ‘do we need a third opener?” 

“When Virat Kohli is there, you got KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma, and Virat could well be the third opener in case there’s an injury. It allows you to have an extra fast bowler, as well as an extra batsman in the middle order. So, it does open some opportunity,” he further added. 

Sri Lanka Gets Ready For The Final With A Win

Wanindu Hasaranga had his first standout performance of the competition when the middle overs arrived, taking 3 for 21. Pakistan’s innings was never quite able to take off.

Despite Mohammad Nawaz’s best efforts, Pakistan’s horizons significantly shrunk after his strikes, despite the fact that he appeared to be striking well in the 26 he made off 18 before being run out. Pakistan eventually lost to 121. 

Pakistan’s quick bowling in the powerplay alarmed Sri Lanka, who at one point fell to 29 for 3. However, because the aim was so modest, they could afford to move slowly. The pursuit was led by Pathum Nissanka, who hammered an unbroken 55 off 48. Bhanuka Rajapaksa and Dasun Shanaka’s less impressive but more aggressive innings allowed Sri Lanka to cruise home. 

Pakistan will take on Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup final under Babar’s leadership.

Also Read: Need To Get Balance In Batting Order To Close Out Games: Harmanpreet Kaur