Is it time for a change in Captaincy?

With the series loss against South Africa, Indian Cricket team captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s record in away series as captain became worse. For someone whose record shows that he is the most successful captain India has ever had, this statistic alone remains a thorn. Let’s look at Dhoni’s record as captain

Overall
Tests played 51
Won 25
Lost 14
Drawn 12

Away Series
Tests played 20
Won 5
Lost 11
Drawn 5

He had a spell of 8 consecutive losses under his belt and many feel it’s time he steps down and the chance be given to a youngster. Many, including former Indian Captain Rahul Dravid, have criticized Dhoni for his defensive mindset especially after the tactics he employed in the 4th day of the 2nd test. Dhoni’s delay in using the new ball caused South Africa to pile on more runs which eventually led to a huge 1st innings lead and possibly was the turning point in the loss.

Though all the criticism has been raised, I feel Dhoni is still India’s best choice for captain at the present moment. He is by far India’s most successful captain after winning all the major trophies: the 2007 T20 World Cup, 2011 ODI World Cup and the 2013 Champions Trophy. Another aspect that should be considered is that Dhoni has been the captain through India’s transition time with retirements of 3 great batsman: Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid and VVS Laxman. He has also successfully helped youngsters like Virat Kohli, Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane thrive under his leadership. The final point is that with the 2015 World Cup close by, a change in captaincy could do more harm to the team than good. As batsman, Dhoni’s record is still good in the ODI format of the game in series’ abroad. His batting average has dipped in Tests but I feel he is still India’s best choice for wicketkeeper batsman. 

The tour of South Africa was the 1st time in almost 25 years that India were travelling without the big 3 of Sachin, Dravid and Laxman. Given the situation, many predicted that Indian batsman would cave in easily to the South African pace attack. Not only did the team manage to draw the 1st test, throughout the series, the team showed that they have the fight in them. Maybe Dhoni’s tactics were defensive, he did go for a draw rather than a win, but let’s not forget Dhoni’s impact on the Indian team and how many matches we have won thanks to his “cool and calm” attitude during pressure situations.