Indian batting maestro Virat Kohli has often been vocal about his special bond with former captain MS Dhoni and about how the duo have fared excellently well on the field. Their on-field relationship over the years bore the same pattern - if Dhoni offered imputed support to Kohli ensuring he gave his best against opposition, it was the runs that came off Kohli’s bat which more often than not propelled the team to victory and in turn bettered the former’s overall captaincy records. Kohli, who remained Dhoni’s deputy in limited-overs cricket till 2017, took over the reins of red ball captaincy in 2014 and became one of most successful captains that India ever witnessed in the format. They last batted together during the 2019 ODI World Cup against West Indies and forged a crucial 40-run partnership for the fifth wicket. Together they have amassed 3090 runs in 80 innings across all the three formats. (Pic Courtesy: PTI/AP/Getty)
Updated On: 2023-02-25 03:24 PM IST
India vs Australia, 2016 T20 World Cup (67* off 31)
Skipper Dhoni and his deputy Kohli steered hosts India into the semi-final of the 2016 T20 World Cup registering a 67-run partnership from 31 balls against Australia. India was left reeling at 94 four four at the end of 14 overs following Yuvraj Singh’s wicket when the duo set about to rebuild the innings. Kohli played aggressively, scoring quickfire 82* off 51, while Dhoni was carefully riding along at 18* off 10 balls.
India vs New Zealand 3rd ODI in 2016 (151 off 163)
When the need arises, the dynamic duo comes to the rescue. Just when things turned sour in the third ODI against New Zealand in 2016, the pair struck a clinical partnership of 151 runs from 163 balls, handing India a much-needed breakthrough. After losing both openers early, Dhoni took charge of chasing a mammoth 286 runs with Kohli by his side.
India vs Bangladesh, 2010 Tri-Nation Series (152 off 161)
The duo recorded their highest ODI partnership while scoring 152 off 161, bailing India out against Bangladesh in a Tri-Nation series held in 2010. Their partnership provided relief to the Indian camp as the side were stuttering at 51-3, while a daunting target of 297 awaited to be achieved.
India vs New Zealand 2nd Test in, 2012 (96* off 121)
Another remarkable Kohli-Dhoni alliance in Bengaluru saw India script a commanding win over visitors New Zealand in 2012. The duo put up an unbeaten 96-run partnership off 121 balls on board. While Kohli hit a clinical 82-ball 51, Dhoni extended India’s lead with an aggressive 48 off 60.
India vs England 4th Test in 2012 (198 off 569)
Kohli this time underwent a wearying test of patience and perseverance for his 198-run partnership off 569 balls in the fourth Test match against England in 2012. After India lost its top-four in quick succession, the onus was on the pair to ensure the Men in Blue ekes out a win and draw level to the series. Kohli, staying true to his skill, hit a sublime 103 off 295 balls before Dhoni was adjudged run out for 99 runs. However, their partnership yet again steered India to a better position, and the hosts finally drew the match and won the series 2-1.
