MS Dhoni talks about his bond with Virat Kohli
What's the story
In a recent video that has gained significant traction on social media, former Indian cricket team captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni opened up on his relationship and bond with Virat Kohli.
The two cricketers have a well-documented history of mutual respect and admiration.
Their professional journey together began when Kohli made his debut under Dhoni's leadership. The latter also served under Kohli's captaincy in white-ball cricket after leaving the Test format.
Professional admiration
Dhoni reflects on Kohli's stature in world cricket
In the viral video, Dhoni acknowledged Kohli as one of the top players in global cricket.
He stated, "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."
This statement highlights their long-standing professional relationship and mutual respect despite their age difference.
Reciprocal respect
Kohli's appreciation for Dhoni's support during captaincy transition
The admiration between Dhoni and Kohli is mutual, as evidenced by Kohli's previous statements.
In an earlier interview, Kohli also revealed that Dhoni was the only one who reached out to him after the former left Test captaincy.
He said, "When I left Test captaincy, I received a text from only one person that I have played with earlier, and that is MS Dhoni."
This incident underscores their strong bond and mutual support in times of professional transitions.
Backing
How Kohli and Dhoni have backed each other
Both Dhoni and Kohli have backed each other when the going got tough.
The latter was under the scanner during the 2014 Test series in England, having averaged just 13.40 in five Tests.
However, Kohli received then captain Dhoni's backing at his lowest point.
Years later, Kohli backed Dhoni during the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup, when the latter's batting form was questioned.
Transition
The smooth transition!
In 2014, Dhoni handed over the reins of India's Test side to Kohli after retiring from the format.
However, the former continued to lead in ODIs and T20Is until 2017. Kohli became India's all-format captain that year.
The smooth transition from Dhoni to Kohli was hailed by the cricket fraternity.
Kohli went on to become India's most successful captain in Test cricket.