Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni share tremendous mutual respect and love for each other. And that is constantly seen on the field during their exquisite bond. They both have played a big role for Team India’s modern marvelous success. The 2011 World Cup winning skipper is all set to play in 2019 World Cup under Virat Kohli. Despite all the criticism and debate, MS Dhoni is India’s No.1 wicketkeeper choice in World Cup. No wonder he has earned that with some big knocks in 2019.
MS is a prominent figure on the field. His know-how and idea of learning the game are remarkable. He is often seen assisting Virat and bowlers with various thoughts against the attacking team and that is what a leader does.
In an exclusive interview with India Today, Kohli spoke on MS Dhoni’s big role and his respect for the big man.
“MS Dhoni is one person who knows the game inside out, who understands the game from ball 1 to ball 300 on the field. “I won’t say it is a luxury to have him but I am fortunate to have a mind like that from behind the stumps. At the end of the day, I want to be involved in strategy with the team management with Mahi bhai and Rohit (Sharma).”
“After 30-35 overs, he knows that I will be in the outfield and its on auto mode. Its just about the field placements and bowling changes and we say you know the angles, you know the pace of the pitch and that’s why there is so much trust and respect between the two of us. It’s unfortunate to see so many people going after him.”
Kohli made his international debut under MS Dhoni where the former captain gave him his time to learn the game.
“When I walked into the team, he had the chance of trying someone else after a few games. Although I did grab my opportunities really early, he gave me the opportunity to understand my game and take the time required. So for me those things are very important because I know the kind of phase I was going through. And if he’s going through a phase where he has to work things out, he deserves that respect. It’s not like I gave it to him.”
Kohli added, “You look at what he has done for India, no one can give him that space. He deserves it. So we were just doing our bit to tell people to think in the same manner. It’s not like we are giving him something, he deserves it. And he’s intelligent enough to know what’s going on in his game and in his cricket.”
