Mohammed Shami weighs in on comparison between Virat Kohli and Babar Azam

Pakistan's cricket team have been fairly consistent over the last few years. Ever since Babar Azam was named their captain, things have seemingly gone on an upward spiral for them. Besides, 2021 was a year to remember for the Asian side.

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While they made it to the semi-final during the 20-20 WC 2021, several of their players were named in Men's teams of 2021. Thus, India pacer Mohammed Shami was impressed with Pakistan's growth.

The Indian pacer praised the team in green for their recent performances. He stated that the emergence of three to four players have benefitted them. Further on, Shami also spoke about the comparison of Babar Azam with the likes of Steve Smith, Virat Kohli and Joe Root.

"Pakistan have been playing very good cricket of late and the emergence of three-four players have really helped them a lot. No doubt Babar Azam is a great player. But to compare him with the likes of Steve Smith, Joe Root or Virat Kohli will be unfair on him," said Mohammed Shami in an interview with India.com.

It is to be noted that Azam went on to win the ODI player of the year award for 2021. Although Shami did praise Pakistan's captain, he felt that people should judge him only after he plays for a few more years. However, the speedster did add that if he does continue to play the way he's playing, he would certainly go on to become one of the greatest players for Pakistan.

"I would say let him play for that many years and then maybe we can judge. At the moment, if he continues to play like that, then he would obviously end his career as one of the greats from Pakistan. Good luck Babar Azam, I would say," he said.