In a surprising yet respectful nod to his cricketing rival, Indian batsman KL Rahul has ranked Pakistan’s Babar Azam ahead of Australia’s Travis Head in his list of top international batters. Despite Babar’s recent dip in form and media criticism, the Indian batsman still considers Babar as one of the world’s premier batsmen.
During a recent cricket challenge, Rahul was tasked with ranking five international batters and bowlers based on his personal preferences. The exercise provided a fascinating glimpse into the Indian cricketer’s views on his contemporaries.
KL Rahul began by ranking Australian opener Travis Head in fifth place and Babar Azam fourth on the list. Suryakumar Yadav was awarded the third spot, while Indian captain Rohit Sharma was ranked second. The top position was reserved for Virat Kohli, widely regarded as one of the greatest batsmen of his generation.
Another Pakistani also made KL Rahul’s list as the challenge also extended to bowlers. Pakistan’s fiery pacer Naseem Shah was ranked fifth on Rahul’s list. While England’s veteran fast bowler James Anderson was initially ranked second South African legend Dale Steyn topped the list. Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah, secured the third spot. And Afghanistan’s Rashid Khan, celebrated for his spin wizardry and dominance in T20 leagues, was placed fourth.
Here’s KL Rahul’s top five batsmen and bowlers.
KL Rahul’s Top Five Batters:
KL Rahul’s Top Five Bowlers: