Two of the biggest players in the Indian team today are MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli. They have managed to carve a niche for themselves and also put in performances that have made them superstars in their own right.
As captains however, there are a few differences in their approach. Here are some key differences between the two:
Virat Kohli is more aggressive:
This was a given considering the fact that Kohli is a much more aggressive person by nature and he has bought that to his captaincy as well. Kohli’s aggressive approach helps him as much as Dhoni’s calm way of working things.
Kohli does not lose an opportunity to let the opposition know their place while Dhoni was a much calmer individual who never let anything get to him. Either ways, it worked for the both and they have reached great amounts of success.
More ruthless:
While Dhoni’s team were one of the best in the world in their prime, they did not have a ruthless streak as much as Kohli’s men do. It is pretty evident in their body language that Virat wants the boys to be more ruthless and unforgiving in their approach.
Dhoni’s teams at times were a little susceptible to let the game take its course while they sat back a bit for the draw. Kohli however, ensures that all the players are ready for a fight at any time.
More balance:
Virat Kohli’s team has more balance with regards to the squad that is there. Though Dhoni’s teams were pretty good, they did not have this balance of youth and experience at the same time. The bowlers and batsmen are all in good form at all times.
Kohli’s team has a good mix of batsmen, bowlers and all-rounders, both in Tests and limited overs cricket while Dhoni’s teams would depend more on the top order.
Lesser seniors:
One of the telling aspects of Dhoni’s captaincy was the success with which he was able to manage the transition from the seniors to the new generation. While Kohli does not have that burden, Dhoni had the advantage of working with senior members like Sachin, Sehwag, Kumble, Dravid, Laxman and Zaheer to name a few.
This aspect helped him shape his captaincy after experience. In Kohli’s case, the only experienced candidate is MS Dhoni himself and it is good to see him take advice from the senior statesman from the squad.
By Rohit Nair
