The Contrasting Captaincy Chronicles: Dhoni’s Zenith, Kohli’s Unfulfilled Quest, and Patidar’s Ascendance
MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli, two titans of Indian cricket, have left indelible marks on the sport’s landscape, not only through their individual brilliance but also through their distinct leadership styles.1 While both have transitioned from their captaincy roles, their legacies in the Indian Premier League (IPL) remain a subject of enduring fascination, marked by contrasting narratives of triumph and unfulfilled potential.
Dhoni’s captaincy journey in the IPL is a story of unparalleled success. He holds the record for leading in the most IPL matches, a staggering 226, a testament to his longevity and strategic acumen.2 His tenure with Chennai Super Kings (CSK) culminated in a fitting finale, with a title victory in 2023, solidifying his reputation as one of the greatest captains in IPL history.3 His leadership is synonymous with composure, tactical brilliance, and the ability to extract the best from his players.4
Kohli’s captaincy narrative, while equally passionate, is marked by a different trajectory. He led Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in 143 matches, placing him third on the all-time list. His tenure, spanning from 2013 to 2021, and including sporadic leadership stints outside this period, was characterized by unwavering commitment and a relentless pursuit of excellence. He guided RCB to the final in 2016, but the elusive IPL title remained just out of reach.5 Kohli’s captaincy was defined by his aggressive approach, his ability to inspire his teammates, and his unwavering dedication to the franchise.6
The contrasting fortunes of Dhoni and Kohli as IPL captains have fueled countless debates and discussions. Dhoni’s success has reinforced the importance of strategic acumen and composure, while Kohli’s journey has highlighted the challenges of translating individual brilliance into team success in the highly competitive IPL environment.
The recent RCB revamp ahead of the 2025 mega auction sparked speculation about a potential return to captaincy for Kohli.7 However, the franchise opted for a fresh approach, naming Rajat Patidar as their new skipper. This decision signifies a new chapter for RCB, as they seek to build on their past experiences and pursue their long-awaited IPL title.
Patidar’s appointment reflects RCB’s commitment to nurturing young talent and providing opportunities for emerging leaders. His performance in recent seasons has demonstrated his potential, and the franchise is placing its faith in his ability to guide the team forward.
The decision to appoint Patidar also highlights the evolving dynamics of the IPL, where franchises are increasingly focusing on developing leadership pipelines and building sustainable success.
While Kohli’s captaincy chapter may have closed, his influence on RCB and Indian cricket remains profound. His leadership, both on and off the field, has inspired countless cricketers and fans.
The contrasting narratives of Dhoni and Kohli’s captaincy journeys serve as a reminder of the diverse paths to success in the IPL. Dhoni’s legacy is defined by titles and records, while Kohli’s legacy is defined by passion, commitment, and the pursuit of excellence.
Patidar’s appointment marks the beginning of a new era for RCB, as the franchise seeks to build on its rich history and achieve its ultimate goal of lifting the IPL trophy. The new captain will have to navigate a team with many high profile players, and find a way to make them work together.
