New Delhi, India

Indian skipper Virat Kohli hailed Mahendra Singh Dhoni as "a legend of the game" after India's 125-run win over West Indies in Match 34 of Cricket World Cup 2019 on Thursday. 

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In the post-match presentation, Kohli said, "Dhoni knows exactly what he wants to do in the middle. When he has an off day here and there, everyone starts talking. We always back him. He has won us so many games."

Former Indian skipper Dhoni was criticised for his slow innings during India's World Cup match against Afghanistan in which he scored 28 runs off 52 balls. 

In the match against West Indies, Kohli's elegant 72 and Dhoni's laboured 56 not out helped India to a competitive 268/7 at Old Trafford. 

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Also read: Rohit Sharma's 'controversial' dismissal raises question on third umpire's decision

"The best thing about having someone like him is when you need those 15-20 runs, he knows exactly how to get them. His experience, 8 out of 10 times has come good for us."

"We have quite a few players who play instinctive cricket and follow their game plans. He's such a keen understanding of the game. Always sends us feedback, that you know 260 is a good score."

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"He's a legend of the game. We all know that. Just hope he can continue. Last two games, things haven't gone like we thought they would. These haven't been massive scoring games."

"But we've found ways of winning. Intensity has been the standout thing for me. Mindset really matters. Nothing is impossible. We feel we can win from any situation."

Also read: Fan complains about Sanjay Manjrekar's 'biased' commentary, writes to ICC

Next, India will play against England (June 30), Bangladesh (July 2) and Sri Lanka (July 6).