Virat Kohli praises MS Dhoni ahead of World Cup 2019
The ICC World Cup 2019 is just over a month away. While India have announced their 15-member squad, the tournament would be special since it is most likely MS Dhoni's final World Cup appearance. Meanwhile, skipper Virat Kohli has praised Dhoni for his sound cricketing mind and said that his valuable inputs during the game help a lot. Here are further details.
Kohli lucky to have Dhoni behind the stumps
Kohli said that he is indeed lucky to have Dhoni behind the stumps as it makes the gameplay easier for him and his side. Over the years during Kohli's captaincy, it has been spotted that Dhoni assists him with field placements, especially towards the end of the innings. "He doesn't just make minor adjustments," Kohli was quoted as saying to India Today.
Dhoni understands things from ball one to ball 300: Kohli
Kohli further added, "To have a person who knows the game inside out and understands things from ball one to ball 300 - I wouldn't say it's a luxury to have, I'll actually say I'm fortunate to have a mind like that behind the stumps."
Dhoni takes over the charge after 35 overs
Kohli says that owing to a good amount of understanding and trust between them, things go smooth on-field. He also says that it is after the 35th over when Dhoni takes charge of things as Kohli pushes himself to the outfield to contribute as a fielder. Dhoni then helps in decisions regarding bowling changes and field placements, to which Kohli completely agrees.
Kohli feels Dhoni should be given the space to adjust
On the talks of Dhoni's poor form and if he should be ousted for the team, Kohli protected the veteran by saying that loyalty matters the most to him. Kohli said that Dhoni had given him enough opportunities initially when he had the option to try out someone else. Thus, Kohli feels that Dhoni deserves to get respect and time in this matter.
Dhoni intelligent enough to understand his own game
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."
Kohli and Dhoni eye IPL success, followed by World Cup
As of now, Kohli and Dhoni are enjoying their stint in the ongoing IPL. While Kohli has endured tough luck in the tournament so far, Dhoni is on a joyful ride, as the latter looks to guide CSK to another title victory. Following the IPL, both would shift their focus on the World Cup as India eye their third title.
