ICC World Cup 2019: Michael Clarke Reveals 'Virat Kohli' of Pakistan

Former Australian captain Michael Clarke has revealed Virat Kohli of the Pakistan batting line-up. Clarke believes Babar Azam is the Virat Kohli of Pakistan line-up. In fact, this is not the first time that Babar Azam has been linked with Virat Kohli. Earlier Pakistan coach Mickey Arthur had compared Azam with the Indian captain.

Meanwhile, Babar Azam is a fine young talent who has been consistent for the Pakistan team. Azam has delivered the goods for the Pakistan team. The right-hander has scored  2739 runs in the 64 matches he has played at a staggering average of 51.68.

Michael Clarke heaps praise on Babar Azam.

The talisman right-hander is in fine form in the recent past. Azam had scored 277 runs in the five matches against England in the recently concluded bilateral series at an average of 55.40.

Clarke heaped praise on Babar Azam after he scored a fine 112 off 108 balls in the warm-up match against Afghanistan. However, Azam’s hundred went in vain as Pakistan lost the match.

Michael Clarke believes Pakistan’s chances to qualify for the last four of the World Cup will depend on the shoulder of the young batsman.

“Babar Azam is real class no doubt about that,” Michael Clarke said while commentating. “For me, he’s the Virat Kohli of Pakistan’s line up. If Pakistan [want] to qualify for the semi-finals or final, a lot will depend on his young shoulders.”

Babar Azam has been a consistent performer for the Pakistan team and he would like to come up with a good show in the World Cup. This would be his maiden World Cup and it would be interesting to note how he would handle the World Cup pressure.

Meanwhile, Pakistan lost their first warm-up match against Afghanistan by three wickets. The Men in Green will play their second warm-up match against Bangladesh at Cardiff on May 26. Sarfraz Ahmed-led side will begin their World Cup campaign against the Windies at Nottingham on 31st May.

On the other hand, Babar Azam vs Virat Kohli will be on show when India and Pakistan will take on each other on 16th June at Manchester.