Dubai, Sep 5: Virat Kohli repeatedly showed his affection and respect towards Mahendra Singh Dhoni.
When he went through a tough patch, MS Dhoni always supported him to the hilt.
In a recent interview, the Delhi cricketer said that his camaraderie with the legendary India captain remains the same and that the former Indian wicketkeeper-batsman continues to support him.
Kohli, while addressing the press conference following India’s loss to Pakistan by 5 wickets in the Asia Cup 2022 Super 4, expressed his appreciation to the people who have supported him unflinchingly throughout his career.
It was only Dhoni – among all the players he has played with – who called him up as India Test skipper earlier this year in South Africa.
Kohli said, “When I left the Test captaincy, the only player I had played with was MS Dhoni. Many former players have my number and give opinions on national TV (about what I should do and what not). Nevertheless, no message came to me. Moments like these reveal genuine respect and connection between two people because there is a sense of security. I personally believe that if you want to help someone, you would reach out to them individually rather than speaking on a public dais. He does not want anything from me, and he does not want anything from me..
“I live my life like this, and it is the almighty who gives. I will continue to play like this until I am worthy of it.” he added.
Kohli was the top-scorer for the Indian team against Pakistan as he smashed 60 off 44 balls and helped them post 181/7 in 20 overs. Despite his second half-century in the ongoing tournament, Pakistan won by 5 wickets with one ball to spare thanks to Mohammad Rizwan (71) and Mohammad Nawaz (42).
In spite of this, Kohli sent a strong message with his fluent knock of 60, which is a great sign for the team.