All-rounder Afridi, who has captained Pakistan in all three formats, said that although Kohli’s batting skills are very high but it will take the emotional player much time and a good deal of work to improve his skills as a team leader.
“Dhoni has been a very effective team leader for India and his retirement is a big blow to India. Many times, he has led his team to victories from the front,” Afridi said.
Dhoni stepped down as Test team captain after surrendering Border-Gavaskar Trophy to host Australia last month. Australia won the first two test matches of the four test match series and the third ended in a draw after India narrowly escaped another defeat.
Kohli will lead India in the fourth test against Australia at Sydney from January 6-10.
Afridi had retired from tests in 2010 and has now also announced his retirement plans in ODIs after World Cup 2015.
“Even if I performed brilliantly in World Cup, I will not change my plans. I want to leave ODIs on a high note and I believe World Cup 2015 will be that time,” he said.