MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli. When these two names come to mind, the backbone of India's batting in the recent past jumps out of nowhere. Also one needs to remember one is the most successful skipper we have had and the other has picked up the mantle from his predecessor.
The relationship has always been that of mentor and apprentice. Kohli has picked up a lot from Dhoni when he was the skipper and once Kohli took charge, he used that experience to good effect. But one must remember, their styles are totally different.?
Dhoni was more calm and composed when in charge. Not that he was not aggressive but rarely animated. From his position of keeper he would marshal his troops as and when needed. But there was a sense of peace on his composition and it seemed that he was going with the flow on his own terms.?
Kohli on the other hand is more energetic in his changes and strategy-making on the field. One sees him all over the place getting the way he wants things. He may have been moulded by Dhoni, but the man has his own style.?
Dhoni took over captaincy in 2007 and finally handed all reins to Kohli in 2017. There has been a stark difference in their styles, but in both cases Team India has benefited. Dhoni's calmness and Kohli's energy, both have had their positive effects on the team.?
Be it team selection, leading by example or taking a stand, both Dhoni and Kohli are never once to lag behind. The former does it with a sense of grace while Kohli is the man who shows power. Sort of a Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal thing. Except those two are rivals while these two are on the same side.?
Nonetheless while they may be as different as chalk and cheese, together and separately they have done India proud both as players and skippers. Nothing more could be asked of them.?
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