Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar has opened up about his experiences playing under MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, highlighting the major differences in their captaincy styles. The veteran fast bowler was part of RCB’s squad that lifted the IPL 2026 trophy, helping the franchise complete back-to-back title wins after their triumph in 2025.
Bhuvneshwar revealed that it took time for players to adjust when Kohli succeeded Dhoni as India’s Test captain. Having spent years under Dhoni’s calm and composed leadership, the Indian team initially needed time to understand Kohli’s more intense approach and expectations. “When Virat took over captaincy, it took time to understand. Not just for him, but for everyone. We were getting out of Mahi bhai’s era, and we were used to how he would handle things. Virat was completely different, so it took a few series to understand his thinking and intent.”
According to Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Kohli’s emphasis on fitness became a major part of the team culture. His focus on diet and training initially surprised some players, but the group eventually embraced the approach after seeing the captain lead from the front.
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“When he took over in Australia, he started talking about diet and training. A few people thought how was it relevant, but later on everyone aligned, and he also led by example by doing things himself too.”
Bhuvneshwar also recalled an interesting incident involving Dhoni. Despite his reputation for being extremely calm, Dhoni could communicate his message directly and quietly when required. “I know everyone says Dhoni is calm, but he was someone who would come and quietly tell you things on the side and walk away.” He remembered Dhoni once questioning him after an over had already been bowled because he had not warmed up properly.
The RCB pacer described Rohit as a combination of Dhoni and Kohli. While Rohit generally carries a relaxed personality, Bhuvneshwar believes he can also be demanding when the situation requires it.
“Rohit was a mix of both. He is calm, but he also takes everyone for a run in the garden when he feels like it. So he is a mix. Everyone had their own strategies, but one thing in common was that all of them wanted to win.” Bhuvneshwar Kumar has played the most matches for India under Kohli. Across 92 matches, he claimed 131 wickets at an average of 27.79. Under Dhoni, he featured in 73 matches and took 87 wickets at 36.71, while under Rohit, he played 41 games and picked up 45 wickets at 25.44.
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The pacer also spoke about his evolving friendship with Kohli. Their conversations have changed significantly since their younger days, with family life now becoming a major topic.
“Around 2015-16, we were young. There would be a lot of fun. If we heard those things now, we would wonder why we talked about such things.” Bhuvneshwar Kumar added that their conversations are now more mature, often revolving around their families and children. Both experienced players played important roles in RCB’s consecutive IPL triumphs in 2025 and 2026.
