Sachin Tendulkar vs Virat Kohli: Who is the best?

Cricket, often described as a game of numbers, has witnessed two of its greatest stalwarts in Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli. Beyond the eloquence of their strokes and the elegance of their play, their careers can be dissected statistically to understand the magnitude of their impact on the sport.

Batting Records and Centuries:

Sachin Tendulkar, the ‘Master Blaster’, etched his name in history with a record 100 international centuries, a feat unparalleled. His consistency across formats and longevity in the game remain unmatched. On the other hand, Virat Kohli, the ‘Run Machine’, boasts a staggering number of centuries in limited-overs cricket. His ability to convert starts into hundreds is remarkable, making him a modern-day great.

Batting Average and Strike Rate:

When it comes to batting averages, Tendulkar averaged over 53 in both Tests and ODIs, a testament to his consistency. Kohli, with an average hovering around 53 in ODIs and above 52 in Tests, mirrors Tendulkar’s consistency. However, Kohli’s strike rate in limited-overs cricket sets him apart, reflecting his aggressive yet effective approach.

Chasing Mastery:

Both players have been masters of successful run chases. Tendulkar’s calm demeanor and calculated strokes were the hallmark of his innings while chasing. Kohli, with his aggressive intent and ability to handle pressure, has become one of the finest chasers in the modern era. The number of successful run chases under his belt speaks volumes about his temperament.

Centuries in Major Tournaments:

Tendulkar’s impact in World Cups and other significant tournaments is legendary. His six World Cup centuries remain a record. Kohli, in major tournaments, has been pivotal for India, often steering the team through crucial encounters. His consistency in high-pressure situations has been a cornerstone of India’s successes in global events.

Captaincy and Leadership:

While Tendulkar’s captaincy was relatively short-lived, Kohli led India across formats. Under his captaincy, India achieved historic victories, showcasing his leadership skills. His aggressive approach as a captain mirrored his playing style.

Legacy and Impact:

Tendulkar’s retirement marked the end of an era, leaving an indelible legacy. Kohli, with his passion and consistency, has inspired a new generation. The stadiums roar with ‘Kohli, Kohli’ chants, signifying his impact both on and off the field.

Determining the “best” between Tendulkar and Kohli often boils down to personal preference. Some admire Tendulkar’s classical style, his ability to play with grace and finesse, and his immense contribution to Indian cricket over several decades. Others appreciate Kohli’s aggressive approach, his dominance in the modern era, and his consistency in run-chases, which have been pivotal in many Indian victories.

Here is the detailed statistics comparison between them.