Dhoni gave me an opportunity to bat at No.3: Virat Kohli

What's the story?

Virat Kohli, the current skipper of Indian Cricket Team made his debut for the national side under Mahendra Singh Dhoni and is thankful to the latter for giving him an opportunity to bat No. 3. He also felt that very few youngsters get such opportunities.

In case you didn't know...

Indian Captain Virat Kohli is having a stupendous success in the ODIs at number three and his scores are unreal. He was made to bat at number three under Dhoni's captaincy and Kohli owes his success to the former captain. He also felt that it is unfortunate to see many go after him.

The heart of the matter

Talking with India Today in an interview, Kohli was all praise for India's first choice wicket keeper. He said very few understand the game like Mahi does.

"He (MS Dhoni) is one person who knows the game inside out, who understands the game from ball 1 to ball 300 on the field, I won't say it is a luxury to have him, but I am fortunate to have a mind like that from behind the stumps. At the end of the day, I want to be involved in strategy with the team management, Mahi Bhai and Rohit."

Kohli shares a lovely bond with Dhoni on the field. For crucial decisions, he trusts MSD's words which has paid rich dividend to the team more often than not. He also felt that it is very unfortunate to see that many people go after him.

"After 30-35 overs, he knows that I will be in the outfield and its on auto mode. It's just about the field placements and bowling changes and we say you know the angles, you know the pace of the pitch and that's why there is so much trust and respect between the two of us. It's unfortunate to see so many people going after him."

The Indian captain also admitted that Dhoni backed him many times and also promoted him to number three.

"Although I grabbed my chances, for me to get that kind of backing, it was very crucial for me. Also, he gave me an opportunity to bat at No.3 because not many youngsters get to play at No.3."

What's next?

During the World Cup Dhoni's experience will be a key for the Indian team. Virat Kohli would not find a better person than Dhoni to guide him during the crunch moments.

India begins its world cup campaign against a formidable South African unit from June 05, 2019 at The Rose Bowl Stadium, Southampton.