Exploring the DRS Strategies of Kohli, Rohit, and Dhoni

In a recent discussion, veteran umpire Anil Chaudhary shed light on the distinct Decision Review System (DRS) strategies of Indian cricket captains Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and MS Dhoni. Kohli's enthusiastic appeals contrast with Rohit's more measured approach, while Dhoni is praised for his unmatched judgment and calm demeanor. Chaudhary also recounted a rare incident where even Dhoni's renowned review system faltered during a high-stakes IPL match, showcasing the human element in cricket's decision-making process. This exploration of their styles offers a fascinating glimpse into the minds of these cricketing legends.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 23, 2026, 23:24 IST

Diverse Approaches to DRS: Kohli, Rohit, and Dhoni

Anil Chaudhary, a seasoned international umpire, shared intriguing insights into the differing strategies employed by some of India's most prominent cricket captains regarding the Decision Review System (DRS). He emphasized the unique styles of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and MS Dhoni in their approach to on-field reviews. Chaudhary also recounted a rare incident where the renowned 'Dhoni Review System' did not yield the expected outcome, illustrating that even the legendary wicketkeeper-captain is not infallible when it comes to DRS decisions.

According to Chaudhary, Virat Kohli is known for his fervent appeals for reviews, often advocating for them vigorously. In contrast, Rohit Sharma has adopted a more cautious stance over time, becoming selective in his review requests. Chaudhary praised MS Dhoni as the ultimate DRS strategist, highlighting his exceptional positioning behind the stumps, keen judgment of the ball's trajectory, and composed demeanor. He noted that Dhoni's decision-making ability is unparalleled, making him the most dependable captain for review calls. 'Virat appeals very frequently. If Virat had 15 DRS reviews, it still might not be enough for him. Rohit learned a bit later; he's seen people appeal many times and now sometimes tells them, 'Sit down.' And Dhoni, he's the master. His positioning was better than both because Virat used to field more in the cover region, or on the long-on and mid-wicket sides. Virat fields a lot at the boundary, so I can't really blame him. From far away, you can't tell. But Dhoni's position was excellent. Wicketkeepers and umpires see things similarly. He had a better technique and a better idea of judging the ball's line. He's also calm, so there was nobody close to him in terms of taking DRS calls,' Chaudhary remarked during an interview on Doordarshan.

A Rare Instance of the 'Dhoni Review System' Failing

Chaudhary also recounted a memorable and intense IPL match at Chepauk that revealed a different, more emotional side of the typically composed Dhoni. 'In one match, probably an IPL game, there was a very close call, and I gave the batsman out. It looked clearly out to me, but the ultra-edge replay showed not out. Dhoni had made a very passionate appeal, which was unusual for him because he generally doesn't appeal like that. Even during the DRS review, while the decision was being checked, Dhoni was confidently telling his players, 'No, he's out, I heard it.' But the replay proved otherwise, and the decision was overturned,' he explained.