“Finished Kohli” trends as fans mock Babar Azam after golden duck on T20I comeback

Babar Azam’s much-anticipated return to T20I cricket turned into a nightmare.

As the former Pakistan skipper was dismissed for a two-ball duck against South Africa in the opening match of the series at Rawalpindi on Tuesday, October 28. Facing Corbin Bosch, Babar edged a delivery straight to Reeza Hendricks at cover, leaving the home crowd stunned and Pakistan’s chase in early trouble.

Coming in at No. 3 after Sahibzada Farhan’s 24 off 19, Babar had a brief stay at the crease as Pakistan faltered while chasing a steep 195-run target. His dismissal triggered a flood of reactions on social media, with fans drawing comparisons between him and Virat Kohli — many mocking the Pakistan batter and arguing that he falls short of the Indian star’s consistency and match-winning temperament.

The trolling came despite Kohli’s own recent struggles in ODIs against Australia, as fans highlighted how the Indian batter bounced back with a gritty half-century at the SCG.

Babar, who was recalled to the side after Pakistan’s Asia Cup batting woes, will be eager to silence critics when the series moves to Lahore for the second T20I on Friday, October 31. The right-hander will also feature for the Sydney Sixers in the upcoming Big Bash League (BBL) 2025–26 season, where he hopes to rediscover his rhythm and form.