Former Indian domestic giant Wasim Jaffer feels Australian talisman batsman Steven Smith is a better Test batsman than Virat Kohli. Both Smith and Kohli are the best batters of the current generation and they are often compared with each other. Many cricket pundits believe Smith has wood on Kohli in the Test format but Kohli is a better all-format player.
In fact, Wasim Jaffer also picked Virat Kohli as the best all-format player. Meanwhile, Jaffer rated Smith as a better Test form for making a roaring comeback after his one-year suspension of ball-tampering. The former Australian skipper was at the top of his game in the 2019 Ashes as he amassed 774 runs in four Test matches at a staggering average of 110.
Steven Smith has more consistent in the Test fold
Consequently, Smith was able to leapfrog Kohli and took the numero uno position in the ICC Test batsmen rankings. Smith has a solid technique and he has scored runs all over the world. In fact, there is no denying the fact that it is difficult to go past Smith once he gets settled at the crease. The right-hander has scored 7227 runs in 73 Test matches at an impressive average of 62.84.
On the other hand, Virat Kohli is hot on the heels of Steven Smith in the Test fold. Kohli hardly has any chunk in his armor and he is one of the best in the business. Kohli has also scored runs in every condition and he has come out on top. The Indian captain has amassed 7240 runs in 86 Test matches at an average of 53.63.
Meanwhile, Kohli is miles ahead of everyone when it comes to the white-ball version. The right-hander has an immaculate record while chasing and he has a fine job for the team.
Wasim Jaffer said while talking to Times Now, “I have to give it to Steve Smith for his form since return from suspension”.
Jaffer also picked Virat Kohli as a better white-ball cricketer than Rohit Sharma. Both of them have been fabulous in the limited-overs but Jaffer feels Kohli is more consistent.
“In sheer consistency, Kohli edges past Rohit. But Rohit will be ahead in terms of banking on starts and scoring after getting his eye in”.
Smith and Virat will be up against each other in the four-match Test series later in the year in Australia. The batsman who will outperform the other, his team will have a better chance of winning the series.
