September 1, 2024

‘I am like an older brother’: MS Dhoni Opens Up About His Close Bond with Virat Kohli

MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli shared a long and successful partnership as teammates, notably during the 2011 Cricket World Cup, where Dhoni’s leadership guided the Indian team to victory. Their relationship goes beyond mere camaraderie, with Dhoni often seen as a mentor and guide to Kohli. Reflecting on their enduring bond, Dhoni recently likened Kohli to a younger brother, underscoring the deep respect and affection he has for him.

At a recent event, Dhoni elaborated on their relationship, highlighting how he has played a pivotal role in Kohli’s cricketing journey. Dhoni’s mentorship and support were crucial during Kohli’s formative years in international cricket. Their connection, marked by mutual respect and a shared passion for the game, has left a lasting impact on Indian cricket, with Dhoni’s role as a mentor being a significant part of Kohli’s rise to becoming one of the world’s leading batsmen.

MS Dhoni Discusses His Relationship with Virat Kohli

“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 colleague or whatever name you give it. But at the end of the day, we have been colleagues, you know, who played for India for a very long time. He has been amongst the best when it comes to world cricket,” MS Dhoni said.

MS Dhoni had a significant impact on Virat Kohli’s career. After Kohli’s standout performance in the 2008 U-19 World Cup, Dhoni, then India’s captain, quickly included him in the senior team. Kohli made his debut in ODIs under Dhoni’s leadership, starting a journey that led him to become one of the world’s top batsmen.

During Kohli’s early international years, Dhoni’s guidance was crucial. In 2012, Dhoni made Kohli the vice-captain of the Indian team, marking a key moment in their professional relationship. By January 2017, Dhoni stepped down as captain of India’s white-ball teams, passing the role to Kohli, who had already taken over the Test captaincy in 2014. Dhoni remained a valuable player and mentor until the 2019 Cricket World Cup.

Although they never played together in the IPL, their successful partnership in international cricket has left a strong legacy. Dhoni’s recent remarks highlight the deep respect and bond between them.

Oliver Hannon Dalby’s Six-Wicket Haul Secures Warwickshire’s First Win

Warwickshire secured their first Vitality County Championship win of the season with a convincing innings and 21 runs victory over Kent at Edgbaston, wrapping up the match before lunch on the third day.

Kent, dismissed for 156 in their first innings, struggled again in their second innings, managing only 243 despite some resistance from Bell-Drummond (78) and Evison (65). Warwickshire’s Oliver Hannon-Dalby shone with the ball, taking 6 for 43 in the second innings and 9 for 74 overall, leading the charge in dismissing Kent. This defeat deepens Kent’s slide towards Division Two.

Kent’s Tough Season Continues with Sixth Straight Defeat

Joey Evison was the sole standout for Kent, scoring 65 in a losing effort as they suffered their sixth consecutive Championship defeat, pushing them closer to relegation. Injuries to crucial players Tawanda Muyeye and Grant Stewart added to Kent’s woes during a challenging three days in the West Midlands.

Resuming on 157 for 3, Kent moved to 171 before Warwickshire’s Oliver Hannon-Dalby took 3 wickets for just 6 runs in 14 balls. He dismissed Jack Leaning and Muyeye lbw, and Charlie Stobo took a catch off his first ball. Hannon-Dalby came close to taking all 10 wickets but was stopped by Ed Barnard, who claimed Stewart and Matt Parkinson.

Alfie Ogborne was out to Michael Rae, and Evison, running out of partners, hit a six to reach a 93-ball half-century. Despite his solid batting, Evison was eventually out to Michael Booth, leaving Kent with another challenging Championship loss. With their Division One status at risk, Warwickshire looks set to stay safe for another year as other teams at the bottom of the table struggle.