With the final playoff spot on the line, Kohli’s Royal Challengers Bengaluru will face off against Dhoni’s Chennai Super Kings at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on Saturday.
RCB’s remarkable resurgence will be tested against the five-time champions CSK in a high-stakes, do-or-die match that also contends with potential inclement weather.This crucial game will determine the fourth and final team to secure a place in the IPL playoffs, narrowing the race down to these two formidable teams.In the build-up to this eagerly anticipated clash, Kohli spoke about his deep respect and admiration for Dhoni’s leadership and tactical acumen.
In a video shared by Star Sports, Kohli reflected on their collaborative partnership during their time together in the Indian national team.
“His understanding of the game and his ability to handle pressure is second to none,” Kohli said. “His tactical brilliance as a captain is something the world has witnessed for many years.”
Kohli, who served as vice-captain under Dhoni, emphasized the seamless communication and mutual respect that defined their relationship.
“When I became captain, I used to discuss a lot of things with him. When I was vice-captain and he was captain, I would constantly go to him with ideas. That’s why we have such a good and mutually respectful relationship because we’ve always thought about what’s best for the team. He has absolute faith in me, and I have absolute faith in him.”
Kohli also highlighted the clarity and decisiveness in their decision-making process.
“Whenever we discuss something, we come to a conclusion. We’ve never had discussions that left us uncertain. It’s either I follow his point of view, or he agrees with mine, and we go ahead with the decision. It’s never been left 50-50 because when both individuals are only thinking about the team, you always have a gut feel of what’s right, and we go ahead with it. That can only happen when you are absolutely honest with each other.”
As the cricketing world watches with bated breath, the showdown at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium is set to be a fitting climax to the league stage of IPL 2024.