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The Decision Review System (DRS) has become a game-changer in modern cricket. It allows players to challenge an umpire’s call, bringing technology into decision-making. While it’s a strategic tool, not every player is great at using it. Over the years, India’s wicketkeepers have played a huge role in making these calls, especially MS Dhoni and Rishabh Pant.
Dhoni, often dubbed the “Dhoni Review System” by fans, has built a reputation for being incredibly accurate with his DRS calls. But is that reputation truly backed by stats? On the other hand, Rishabh Pant, India’s current keeper, has had a mixed record with DRS, facing criticism for some questionable calls. Let’s break it down.
Is MS Dhoni Really the King of DRS?
There’s no denying that MS Dhoni’s calm, calculated approach to DRS has given him a legendary status. He often seemed to know exactly when to take a review and when to hold back. But a deeper analysis of his success rate tells a different story.
Recent stats reveal that Dhoni’s DRS accuracy as a captain stood at around 41 percent. While that’s solid, it’s not extraordinary—especially when the average success rate across captains is around 40 percent. Some other captains, like Faf du Plessis, have even done better, with a success rate of 57 percent.
So, while Dhoni was definitely sharp with his reviews, the idea that he was always right might be a bit exaggerated. Even experienced umpires have pointed out that while Dhoni made smart DRS calls, he wasn’t infallible. Sometimes, the hype around his reputation made him seem more accurate than he really was.
Rishabh Pant’s Struggles with DRS
Now, let’s talk about Rishabh Pant. Stepping into Dhoni’s shoes was never going to be easy, and one of the biggest challenges he has faced is DRS.
Pant’s decision-making with reviews hasn’t always been spot-on. In several matches, his eagerness to take a review has led to wasted opportunities. His aggressive style often influences his judgment, and he sometimes takes calls based more on instinct than careful assessment.
However, there’s a silver lining. Experts have noted that Pant has improved significantly over time. As he gains more experience, his understanding of DRS and when to use it wisely is getting better. It’s a learning curve, and he still has time to refine his skills.
What Makes a Great DRS Decision?
A wicketkeeper plays a crucial role in DRS calls. Positioned directly behind the stumps, they have the best view of the ball’s movement, the angle, and the impact. That’s why keepers like Dhoni and Pant are so involved in review decisions.
The best DRS calls are a mix of:
- A sharp understanding of the ball’s trajectory
- Close coordination with the bowler and fielders
- Staying calm under pressure
- Knowing when to take a risk and when to hold back
Dhoni’s strength was his ability to stay composed and calculate his reviews with precision. Pant, on the other hand, is still developing that skill, but with experience, he’s expected to get better.
Final Verdict: Dhoni vs. Pant in DRS Calls
- MS Dhoni: A legend in DRS, but not as perfect as many believe. His calls were usually based on sharp instincts, but his success rate was around the global average.
- Rishabh Pant: A work in progress. He has made some poor decisions but is improving with time and experience.
DRS is a tricky tool—it can make or break a game. While Dhoni set a high benchmark, Pant has the potential to master it too. The key is patience, practice, and trusting instincts at the right moments.
Cricket fans will continue to debate over who’s better with DRS, but one thing is certain—it’s an art that takes time to master. Whether Pant will eventually match Dhoni’s reputation remains to be seen, but for now, he’s on the right track.
