Former Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Amir has named Virat Kohli as the toughest batter he has faced in international cricket, praising the Indian superstar for his consistency, composure, and ability to deliver in high-pressure situations. Kohli has built a remarkable record against Pakistan across white-ball cricket, establishing himself as one of India’s greatest match-winners in the rivalry.
Since making his debut against Pakistan in 2009, the batting icon has scored more than 1,270 international runs against the arch-rivals at an average above 63, including four centuries. His numbers in T20Is are equally outstanding. Kohli averages over 70 against Pakistan in the shortest format and has produced several memorable performances, most notably his unbeaten 82 at the 2022 T20 World Cup in Melbourne.
In One-Day Internationals, he has amassed 778 runs in 17 innings against Pakistan, registering four centuries and two half-centuries. Despite enjoying a few memorable moments against Kohli, including dismissing him in the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy final, Amir admitted that the former India captain has been his most challenging opponent.
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Speaking to Wisden, Mohammad Amir said, “For this generation, I’ve said it many times, Virat Kohli is the toughest batter I have bowled to. When you look at his consistency, the way he controls his game, and how he finishes matches, there is simply no match for him in modern cricket.”
🗣”No comparison with Virat”
Mohammad Amir reveals his toughest opponents to bowl against 💪
Watch the full Scoop Extended interview 👉 https://t.co/Q5I3D4Fxj6 pic.twitter.com/bgxXaEVd2y
— Wisden (@WisdenCricket) July 30, 2026
The left-arm pacer also reflected on the toughest batters from an earlier era, naming Australian greats Ricky Ponting and Shane Watson among the most difficult opponents he encountered.
“Among former players, Ricky Ponting and Shane Watson were extremely difficult to bowl to. But if we talk about current players, Virat Kohli stands at the top without a shadow of a doubt,” Mohammad Amir added.
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Kohli has retired from Test and T20I cricket but continues to represent India in One-Day Internationals. The veteran batter was last seen in action during India’s recent ODI series against England and remains a key figure in the team’s plans for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
