Andries Gous picks Ricky Ponting’s aggressive captaincy over MS Dhoni’s calm approach [Exclusive]

Published - 27 Jan 2026, 19:18 IST | Updated - 27 Jan 2026, 19:24 IST

In an exclusive conversation with CricTracker, wicketkeeper-batter Andries Gous shared his views on various aspects of the game, revealing some interesting choices and preferences. He stated that he would choose Ricky Ponting’s aggression over MS Dhoni’s calmness, highlighting his admiration for an assertive approach to the game. Gous also picked Virat Kohli’s cover drive over Babar Azam’s and expressed his fondness for facing quality spin bowling.

The USA batter went on to describe Abhishek Sharma as fearless and labelled Virat Kohli as stylish. He named Jacques Kallis as the ‘king of cricket’ for his all-round excellence. Gous further opined that Kane Williamson possesses superior batting technique, while Steven Smith stands out for his game awareness. He praised Faf du Plessis and David Miller for their longevity in international cricket, acknowledging their consistency and sustained impact over the years.

Fast starts or Finishing strong - Finishing strong Impact cameo or Long match-defining innings - ImpactMS Dhoni's Calmness or Ricky Ponting's Aggression as captain - Ricky PontingVirat Kohli's cover drive or Babar Azam's Cover drive - Virat Kohli’s cover driveOpening the batting or finishing the innings? - OpeningFacing express pace or tackling quality spin? - Quality spinChasing a target or setting one? - ChasingBig six or perfect cover drive? - Big sixFranchise leagues or international matches? - Intl matchesMS Dhoni or Adam Gilchrist - MS Dhoni

Fearless - Abhishek SharmaStylish - Virat KohliUnderrated - Harry Brook Speed - Lockie Ferguson Calm - MS DhoniGenius - Virat KohliMagician - Sunil NarineKing - Jacques KallisClutch - Virat KohliGolden Arm - Jasprit BumrahLeader - Ricky Ponting

Technique - Kane WilliamsonTiming - AB de VilliersPower - Romario ShepherdConsistency - Virat KohliMentality - Virat KohliSpin-hitting - Nicholas PooranPace-hitting - Rohit SharmaGame awareness - Steve SmithFinishing ability - David MillerLongevity - Faf du Plessis

Babar Azam or Shubman GillShai HopeTravis HeadPhil SaltSteve Smith Kane WilliamsonJoe RootNicholas PooranRohit Sharma Virat Kohli