Virat Kohli vs MS Dhoni: Who has the better Asia Cup ODI record?

India is set to face Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2023 to start their campaign in the continental tournament. Ahead of the crucial game, Star India batter Virat Kohli expressed his passion and dedication towards the game. Kohli revealed how he always focuses on improving his game for the team and how he tries to outplay the opposition.

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However, one of the greatest Indian skippers MS Dhoni also used to do the same. Dhoni always tried to stay two steps ahead of his opponents to do well for the team. In ODI Asia Cup history, Dhoni has been phenomenal with his leadership skills. His amazing game scene and presence of mind have helped India win matches in crunch situations. So, who has been better for India in the ODI format? In today's article, we will try to find who is better between MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli in Asia Cup ODIs.

MS Dhoni vs. Virat Kohli: Captaincy Records

Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni (Source: Twitter)

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MS Dhoni, renowned for his exemplary leadership, boasts an outstanding track record as India's skipper in the Asia Cup. Under his captaincy, India clinched the coveted title twice, in 2010 and 2016, showcasing his strategic brilliance and ability to lead his team to victory. Dhoni had been at the helm of the team since 2008, maintaining a consistent presence and steering India to success in this prestigious tournament.

In contrast, Virat Kohli, a dynamic cricketer and captain in his own right, did not have the opportunity to lead India in the Asia Cup. During the 2018 campaign, Kohli was rested, and the responsibility fell to Rohit Sharma, who duly guided India to another triumph. Dhoni's legacy in the Asia Cup as a captain remains a testament to his exceptional leadership skills, making him an iconic figure in Indian cricket history.

MS Dhoni vs. Virat Kohli: Batting records

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Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni (Source: Twitter)

Dhoni made a total of 19 appearances in the tournament's ODI format. He made his explosive debut in 2008, announcing his arrival with a resounding century against Hong Kong. Throughout the Asia Cup, he amassed a total of 327 runs in just six matches, including one century and two half-centuries. He went ahead, leaving an indelible mark as a clutch performer.

On the other hand, Virat Kohli, with 11 Asia Cup ODI matches under his belt, faced a more challenging journey. Making his debut in 2010, his initial outings yielded just 67 runs in four matches. While he crafted memorable centuries against Bangladesh in 2014 and Pakistan in 2012 (with the highest score of 183), his Asia Cup voyage showcased both triumphs and trials.

MS Dhoni vs. Virat Kohli: Milestones

Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni (Source: Twitter)

In their journeys through Asia Cup ODI history, MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli, despite differing batting roles, have left indelible marks. Dhoni, known for his finishing prowess, ventured out as an opener in his early days. In 19 appearances, he illuminated the tournament with three fifties and a resounding century. His debut Asia Cup match in 2008 set the stage ablaze with a blistering century against Hong Kong. Subsequent innings of 76 and 67 against Pakistan and Sri Lanka displayed his mettle.

Dhoni's last half-century in the ODI Asia Cup came in 2010 against Pakistan, contributing significantly to India's victory. On the flip side, Virat Kohli, always a top-order force, showcased his potential explosiveness. In just 11 appearances, he rocked the tournament with three centuries and a fifty. The 2012 Asia Cup saw Kohli's peak as he amassed 357 runs in three matches. His journey featured a stellar century against Sri Lanka, an exceptional 183 against Pakistan, and a match-winning 136 against Bangladesh in 2014.

Also Check: Asia Cup Winners List from 1984 - 2023 | Asia Cup