Choosing the finest T20 International batter is a debate that sparks endless discussions among fans, cricketers, and experts alike. With the format producing a host of superstars over the years, narrowing down the list to a single name often feels impossible. From Chris Gayle’s six-hitting prowess to MS Dhoni’s finishing ability, from AB de Villiers’ 360-degree strokeplay to Virat Kohli’s consistency under pressure, every player has left a unique imprint on the shortest format of the game.
Recently, Indian wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik faced with this very challenge during a candid chat with Cricbuzz. He was asked to pick the best T20I batter of all time, and after multiple rounds of elimination, he finally revealed his choice.
Dinesh Karthik picks the all-time best T20I batter
During the fun segment, Karthik was first presented with a long list of legendary names including Rohit Sharma, Gayle, De Villiers, Suryakumar Yadav, Yuvraj Singh, Dhoni, Kohli, and Suresh Raina. In the next round, he trimmed the list down to Rohit, De Villiers, Kohli, and Dhoni.
From there, the contest grew tighter as Karthik picked only de Villiers and Kohli. The final decision was always going to be a tough one, but in the end, Karthik leaned towards Kohli, calling him the best T20I batter the world has ever seen. He justified his decision by pointing out Kohli’s unmatched consistency and ability to deliver in crunch moments, qualities that set him apart in the highly competitive format.
Also READ: Dinesh Karthik picks Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni amongst others in Team India’s all-time T20 XI
Impressive numbers in T20Is
Kohli’s T20I record provides ample evidence to support Karthik’s selection. The former Indian captain bid farewell to T20Is in 2024 after India’s triumphant T20 World Cup campaign in the West Indies and USA. In his last appearance, the grand stage of the World Cup final against South Africa, Kohli produced yet another memorable innings. His knock of 76 off 59 balls, decorated with six boundaries and two towering sixes, proved decisive in India clinching the trophy.
Over the course of his career, Kohli became the benchmark for batting in T20Is. In 125 matches, he amassed 4,188 runs in 117 innings, averaging an extraordinary 48.69 with a strike rate of 137.04. His tally included 38 half-centuries and one century, underlining his ability to score consistently against top bowling attacks. What stood out most was his knack for performing when it mattered most, particularly in knockout games and high-pressure chases.
