Which was the first in India Wasim Jaffer has made a bold comparison KL Rahul and Virat Kohlisaying that the Indian wicketkeeper batsman has the same skill as a good batsman. However, Jaffer believes that it is Kohli’s incomparable attitude and consistency that has helped him rise higher than ever in international cricket.Rahul and Kohli shared the Indian dressing room for more than a decade, with the pair building their international careers at the same time. While Kohli has been one of the most prolific batsmen of modern times, Rahul is often praised for his control and versatility but has struggled to convert his immense potential into consistent dominance.Speaking on the Great Indian cricket Show on Doordarshan, Jaffer reflected on his time as part of the Punjab Kings coaching setup and recalled working with Rahul during the IPL.
‘KL Rahul equals Virat Kohli in terms of talent’
Jaffer described Rahul as one of the most talented batsmen in world cricket and said the Karnataka star still has a lot to achieve.“KL is a great player who plays all three roles amazingly. Technically sound, composed, and controlled. Although he is still playing actively, I believe he has a limited chance due to his ability. He can get more tours in India with his permission,” said Jaffer. The former Indian opener then drew a surprising comparison with Kohli.“In terms of real talent and quality, I believe he is on par with Virat Kohli, but it is Virat’s elite mentality that creates the biggest separation between KL and Virat,” he added.
Virat Kohli vs KL Rahul: Comparison of international careers
Although Jaffer ranks Rahul’s talent along with Kohli’s, these numbers show a remarkable difference in Kohli’s longevity and consistency as Kohli started his international career 6 years before KL Rahul.
| Number | Virat Kohli | KL Rahul |
|---|---|---|
| Match of the Nations | 562 | 238 |
| They run | 28,359 | 9,830 |
| Batting Average | 52.71 | 40.45 |
| Many centuries | 85 | 22 |
| Half a year | 148 | 62 |
| Top Results | 254* | 199 |
