The most iconic figures in Indian cricket, Mahendra Singh Dhoni and Virat Kohli have had a tremendous effect on the game not just within India but all over the world. Likewise, these two men have made an everlasting impression on Indian cricket from which many draw inspiration as they lead their teams onward.
Dhoni has moved into a coaching role at Chennai Super Kings (CSK) who plays in IPL while Kohli still plays for Delhi Daredevils (DDL). He is no longer involved in playing but has taken up cricket mentoring roles for younger generations.
The relationship between MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli is built on mutual respect and admiration despite their different personalities or leadership styles. This connection goes beyond mere politeness contributing immensely to the victory of Indian cricket.
For instance, they are frequently seen together during different interviews off the field while the same camaraderie can be discerned from several online posts featuring them. At times when they joke together Kohli has often claimed that he admires Dhoni’s humility and leadership skills.
There is this particular video circulating online where Dhoni interacts with some audience members asking questions. Upon inquiring as to what his relationship with Virat Kohli was really like he responded saying:
“We have been playing since 2008-09. There’s still an age gap, so I don’t know whether I would say like I am an older brother or colleagues or whatever name you give it. But at the end of the day we have been colleagues, you know, who played for India for a very long time. He (Virat Kohli) has been amongst the best when it comes to world cricket.”
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MS Dhoni discussed his relationship with Virat Kohli
Kohli has consistently mentioned Dhoni in fondness, citing his composure during challenging situations and his approach to sharing the burdens of captaincy. Kohli took over the reins of India’s cricket team, with Dhoni’s support being critical according to him.
In fact, Dhoni has repeatedly lauded Kohli for his batting skillset, enthusiasm and physical fitness. He knew right from the start that there was greatness lurking inside the young lad and provided encouragement throughout his various stages of life.
Their seamless transition from Dhoni to Kohli in the Indian cricket team captaincy can be attributed largely to the mutual regard they bore for one another. In 2017, Dhoni appointed Kohli as the captain of Indian limited overs side after resigning from that position himself, an office he had held since 2014 when he was made the Test captain already.
Even after stepping down as captain, Kohli claims that Dhoni kept on mentoring him particularly during tough moments. Consequently he has termed it necessary that he should refer to this past cricketing great who has always been there for him to provide guidance whenever needed.
Kohli and Dhoni have had numerous meaningful partnerships, together as captain and player and as teammates on the field. They were often crucial to each other as they supported one another in the middle during tight situations.