ABP Live Sports
abplive|20-08-2025
Leading a cricket team is never easy. From planning strategies to handling pressure and making the right team combinations, a captain’s role is crucial in every match. Over the years, several legendary cricketers have led their teams for long periods, setting remarkable records.
Former Indian skipper MS Dhoni tops the list with 332 matches as captain between 2007 and 2018. Out of these, India won 178, lost 120, while 15 ended in a draw. His win percentage stands at 53.61%. Dhoni remains the only captain to have won all three major ICC trophies – 2007 T20 World Cup, 2011 ODI World Cup, and 2013 Champions Trophy.
Second on the list is Ricky Ponting, who captained Australia in 324 matches from 2002 to 2012. He guided the team to victory in 220 matches with a superb win rate of 67.9%. Under his leadership, Australia lifted the 2003 and 2007 ODI World Cups back-to-back.
Known for his sharp tactical mind, Stephen Fleming captained New Zealand in 303 international matches. He won 128 and lost 135, with a win percentage of 42.24%. While the win rate wasn’t very high, Fleming is credited with building a stronger and more competitive Kiwi side during his era.
South African great Graeme Smith led his side in 286 matches. He secured 163 wins and suffered 89 defeats, finishing with a win rate of 56.99%. Smith’s leadership was instrumental in making South Africa one of the most dominant Test teams of his time.
Australian legend Allan Border occupies the fifth spot with 271 matches as captain between 1984 and 1994. During his tenure, Australia won 139 and lost 89 matches, giving him a win percentage of 51.29%. Border is remembered for rebuilding Australian cricket and laying the foundation for its future dominance.