In an emotional disclosure, Virat Kohli explained how MS Dhoni's constant encouragement guided him through his difficult time. In the RCB Podcast Season 2, Kohli revealed that Dhoni contacted him twice in his trying time, providing a view that stuck with him. Dhoni's message, "When you are supposed to be strong and regarded as a strong person, people tend to forget to ask how you are doing," resonated with Kohli, who has always been considered mentally tough.
Kohli highlighted the fact that Dhoni's gesture was rare, as the former captain is normally difficult to contact. The act of kindness underscored Dhoni's appreciation of the pressures that come with being a top sportsperson. Kohli said that Dhoni's experience enabled him to relate to his plight in a genuine manner.
This cricketing duo transcends cricket and has a bond outside the ground, with Dhoni calling himself "like an older brother" to Kohli. This closeness developed over years of sharing the field, including India's 2011 World Cup triumph, remains a unifying force and one of respect in Indian cricket.
Sources: Indian Express, Republic World