MS Dhoni vs Virat Kohli is the biggest debate of Indian cricket fans & fans the world over in recent times. While MS Dhoni has been the most successful captain in Indian cricket with an immense record of wins & trophies, Virat Kohli has been one of the most successful & in-form cricketers in world cricket. While both cricketers have played their respective roles very well, when it comes to the Kohli vs Dhoni debate, their captaincy approach & records are often under scrutiny. Nevertheless, they both are among the favorites of fantasy cricket players around the world due to their skills on the field.
Dhoni vs Kohli in Test
- If we observe closely, the batting statistics are skewed in favour of Virat Kohli. This goes to show that in obvious terms Kohli is the better batsman.
- But, if we look closely at the catches record which is overlooked here, it will show that Dhoni has 256 catches to his name while Virat only has 96.
- But that is not a number to show any considerable difference because Dhoni is a wicket-keeper & Kohli is an outfielder.
Dhoni vs Kohli in Odi
In this comparison, both cricketers have crossed the 10000-run mark. But if we look closely at the numbers then Virat has slightly better stats. But, we have to consider that at most times Virat has always batted at number 3, which means he has had the opportunity to face more deliveries. MS Dhoni on the other hand comes to bat at 6 or 7, most times under huge pressure of finishing the match with a positive result. Therefore in ODIs Virat is the better batsman again, but Dhoni is the better finisher & has an immense record as well.
Dhoni vs Kohli in T20
Even though the numbers heavily favour Virat Kohli in the T20 format of the game. MS Dhoni is more known for his captaincy & number of wins in this format of the game. He has captained India to a T20 World Cup victory.
Dhoni vs Kohli in Indian T20 League
Kohli’s numbers again take precedence over Dhoni’s, but we have to keep in mind that Dhoni has won 4 titles with his franchise Chennai. Kohli is yet to win an Indian T20 League title with Bangalore. Kohli has also recently left captaincy for Banglore.
So, Who is Better Batsman – Dhoni or Kohli?
If we consider the overall record, Virat Kohli wins this comparison hands down. He is by far the most successful batsman of the current generation. The current Indian team captain is ranked 6th in Tests in the ICC rankings & is ranked number 2 in ODIs. His current T20 rank is 11th on the ICC rankings.
MS Dhoni vs Virat Kohli Stats As Captains
Virat Kohli has surpassed Dhoni’s number & win percentage as captain in the longest format of the game.
Captaincy in ODIs
In ODI’s Virat’s win percentage is more, but Dhoni has led India in more matches & hence more number of wins. Virat still has a lot left to do there since he is still playing. Also, winning two ICC trophies makes Dhoni a better leader. Under MSD India played two world cups & won one, while under Virat India couldn’t go beyond the semi-finals in 2019.