MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli, two of India's most celebrated
cricketers, have shared the field for over a decade, forging a bond that has
stood the test of time. However, despite their camaraderie, Dhoni recently
revealed that a ‘line’ has always existed between them.
In a candid interview with JioHotstar, the former India
captain opened up about his relationship with Kohli, their shared experiences,
and the unique dynamic they have maintained over the years.
A Mentor, A Friend, Yet A Senior
Kohli made his international debut in 2008, during Dhoni’s
prime years as captain. Having already led India to a T20 World Cup victory and
a historic CB Series win in Australia, Dhoni took on the role of mentor for the
young batter. Over the years, Kohli transformed into one of the finest batsmen
in world cricket, with Dhoni guiding him at every step.
Reflecting on their bond, Dhoni shared:
"Between me and Virat, right from the start, he was someone who wanted
to contribute. He was never happy with a 40 or a 60; he wanted to score a 100
and be not out till the end. So that hunger was there right from the start. The
way he improved his batting and his will to perform are what kept him
going."
Dhoni further explained how their relationship evolved:
"We had a lot of conversations, and that opened us up. Again, I gave
him an honest opinion. Things like 'You could have done this, delayed it by an
over', or 'this was a risk that you had to take'. Just putting in the point,
and that's how the relationship grew."
While their bond strengthened over the years, Dhoni
emphasized that a certain senior-junior distinction has always existed between
them.
"It was more like a captain and a newcomer at that point in time, but
once you keep interacting, you become friends. But I still feel we have that
line in the middle – about the senior and a junior – although still friends. We
have that companionship now that both of us are not captains. Which means that
we can have more time between us before the toss."
Dhoni’s Mysterious Text to Kohli
One of the most talked-about moments in their relationship
came when Kohli stepped down as India's Test captain in early 2022. Having
already relinquished the T20I captaincy and being removed as ODI captain, Kohli
found himself at a crossroads. In an emotional revelation, he later shared that
only one person had reached out to him personally—MS Dhoni.
Despite being known for his minimal use of mobile phones,
Dhoni made the effort to send a text message to Kohli during that critical
phase. However, when asked about the contents of that message, Dhoni chose to
remain silent.
"I'll talk about the relationship, not the message.
I like to keep it the way it is because what it does is it lets other
cricketers come to me and ask if they have anything in their mind. 'Say
anything to him and it won't come out, won't reach a third person'. So that
trust is very important; especially for cricketers who you haven't played
with," Dhoni explained.
A Bond Beyond Cricket
Dhoni and Kohli’s mutual respect has been evident on and off
the field. Kohli has often expressed his admiration for Dhoni, famously calling
him “always my captain” in a social media post. Their heartfelt
moments—be it an embrace during the IPL or a nostalgic post—showcase the
deep-rooted bond they share.
While Dhoni has retired from international cricket, and
Kohli continues to play for India, their legacy as two of India's greatest
captains remains etched in history. Their relationship, marked by mentorship,
friendship, and unwavering trust, continues to inspire generations of cricket
fans worldwide.