Kohli Credits MS Dhoni and Gary Kirsten for Early Support Amid ODI Speculations
Kohli recalls Dhoni and Kirsten’s mentorship as speculation grows over his ODI retirement.
As speculation swirls around Virat Kohli’s future in One-Day Internationals (ODIs) ahead of India’s upcoming series against Australia, the star batter has shared insights into the early backing he received from former captain MS Dhoni and coach Gary Kirsten. With Kohli, 36, having retired from Test and T20I formats earlier this year, questions loom over whether the three-match ODI series starting October 19 in Perth will mark his final 50-over appearance. Amid India’s preparations for the 2027 ODI World Cup, concerns about Kohli’s limited recent match practice—having played only five ODIs in 2025—have fuelled debates about his place in a transitioning squad led by new captain Shubman Gill.
In a recent episode of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) podcast, Kohli recalled pivotal advice from Dhoni and Kirsten during his early career, particularly before the 2011 ODI World Cup, which India won. He revealed that the duo prioritised his intangibles over technical prowess when slotting him at the crucial number three position. “Gary and MS made it very clear to me that we are backing you to play at number three... What you represent on the field, your energy, your engagement—that’s of the biggest value to us,” Kohli recounted. This faith in his relentless drive and competitive spirit, rather than viewing him as an “outright match-winner”, shaped his approach, helping him evolve into one of India’s greatest batters.
Kohli, who debuted in 2008 and has since amassed over 13,800 ODI runs with 50 centuries, admitted he wasn’t the most naturally gifted player early on. “I was never looked upon as someone who could change a game from anywhere. But I had this thing where I’m going to stay in the fight; I am not going to give up,” he said, crediting his hunger to improve. This mindset, he noted, drove him to refine his technique and become indispensable, a journey marked by his desire to be “the best” and win games for India. His comments resonate as selectors weigh his experience against emerging talents like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Riyan Parag, with India’s World Cup planning emphasising youth.
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The Australia series, where Kohli will join veterans Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul, is seen as a critical juncture. Despite a stellar 2023 World Cup (765 runs, three centuries), his 2025 form—averaging 42.33 in ODIs—has drawn scrutiny, especially after a lean IPL season. Social media buzz, amplified by posts on X, reflects divided opinions, with fans urging Kohli to continue while others advocate for fresh faces. As he prepares to face Australia’s formidable bowling attack, Kohli’s reflections on his formative years under Dhoni and Kirsten underscore the resilience that could yet define his ODI legacy, whether this series proves his last or a stepping stone to 2027.
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