Babar Azam apes Virat Kohli’s 71st century celebration after ending drought; fans show no mercy: ‘You can never be him’
admin Babar Azam and Virat Kohli both took 83 innings to end their century drought in international cricket. However, the similarities don’t end there.
Babar Azam Virat Kohli Century Drought:
Babar Azam and Virat Kohli share a unique milestone in international cricket. Both superstars needed exactly 83 innings to end their long and difficult century droughts. Their journeys, struggles, and even their celebrations show surprising similarities.
Babar Azam Virat Kohli Century Drought: How Kohli’s Struggle Began
The story starts in early 2022.
Virat Kohli was going through the toughest phase of his career. He had not scored a century for almost three years. His form dropped sharply, and criticism grew.
During that time, Babar Azam was in outstanding form. He dominated world cricket and also led Pakistan successfully. Seeing Kohli struggle, Babar posted a comforting message on social media: “This too shall pass.”
The gesture was appreciated worldwide.
A few months later, both players met in the Asia Cup, where Kohli’s revival began.
Kohli Breaks His 83-Inning Drought
Kohli finally ended his drought with a century against Afghanistan in the Asia Cup T20I.
The celebration was emotional. He smiled quietly, looked toward his teammates, and kissed his locket in tribute to Anushka Sharma.
This was his famous 71st international century, arriving after more than 1,000 days.
Babar Mirrors Kohli: Another 83-Inning Wait Ends
Three years later, the roles reversed.
Kohli retired from Tests and T20Is as a T20 World Cup champion. Meanwhile, Babar faced his own drought—more than two years and 80+ innings without a century.
Finally, in the second ODI against Sri Lanka, Babar scored an unbeaten 102, ending his drought after exactly 83 innings—the same number as Kohli.
His reaction?
A sheepish smile. A look toward the dressing room. And a gentle kiss on his locket.
Just like Kohli.
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