Babar Azam copies Virat Kohli’s 71st Century celebration after ending his drought, fans call him a ‘copycat’, watch the celebration video

Babar Azam ends his long century drought with a celebration mirroring Virat Kohli’s 71st-ton gesture, prompting fans to call him a ‘copycat’ on social media.

New Delhi: Babar Azam’s batting was at its peak during Virat Kohli’s struggling days in international cricket. However, the wheel of time turned, and Babar found himself in the same situation, waiting for a century for more than two years. And when Babar finally broke this drought, his celebration sparked a new debate on social media, as it was strikingly reminiscent of Kohli’s.

Kohli’s 2022 Struggle and Babar’s Support

At the beginning of 2022, Virat Kohli had been without a century for three years, while Babar Azam was consistently making headlines. At that time, Babar wrote a heartwarming message for Kohli on social media—”This too shall pass.” This sportsmanship was appreciated worldwide, and just a few months later, the two faced off in the Asia Cup.

Kohli’s Return: 71st Century and Unique Celebration

Virat Kohli scored his 71st international century after nearly 1,000 days against Afghanistan in the Asia Cup. His smile, his glance towards the dressing room, and finally, his kiss on the locket—this celebration was incredibly special for fans. It was this celebration that marked the beginning of a new chapter.

True babar azam Fans will not pass without liking this post #BabarAzampic.twitter.com/UaeiYMtmQ4

— Sheikh Abdullah (@SheikhAbdulah56) November 14, 2025

After three years, it was Babar’s turn — a drought of 83 innings broken

Time moves forward—Kohli has retired from two formats, but Babar was going through a similar phase where a century seemed beyond his reach. Finally, against Sri Lanka in Rawalpindi, he scored 102* after 83 innings and 807 days, leading Pakistan to victory. Coincidentally, Kohli had also ended his century drought in exactly 83 innings.

Kohli-like celebration and fans’ displeasure

Babar’s smile after reaching his century, his glance towards the dressing room, and his kiss on the locket—all reminded one of Virat Kohli. Fans then began trolling him on social media, calling him a “copycat.” However, Babar’s century put him at the top of the list of all-time leading ODI centuries for Pakistan (20) and he also holds the record for most centuries on Pakistani soil (8).

Story Highlights

1. Babar Azam scored an international century after 83 innings and 807 days.
2. Fans called Babar’s celebration a copy of Virat Kohli.
3. Kohli made his comeback in 2022 with his 71st century against Afghanistan.
4. Babar played a key role in Pakistan’s victory by scoring his 20th ODI century.