In a recent interview, Virat Kohli addressed the intense fan following he and MS Dhoni experience, highlighting a problematic aspect of fan obsession. Speaking after the Baroda ODI against New Zealand on Sunday, January 11, 2026, Kohli drew parallels between the adoration he receives and the unparalleled frenzy surrounding Dhoni, particularly during Chennai Super Kings (CSK) matches in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Kohli revealed that he is aware and uncomfortable with the phenomenon of fans seemingly waiting for a player's dismissal to witness another star enter the field. He said he does not feel good about it and believes that the same thing happens with MS Dhoni as well. While acknowledging the excitement of fans, Kohli expressed concern that it might not be a good feeling for the player who is getting out. "I do understand the fans getting excited. I don't think too much about it. Well, again, as I said. I feel grateful," he added.

Kohli's comments shed light on the pressures and complexities that come with immense popularity in cricket. Both he and Dhoni have reached iconic status, cultivating massive fan bases that sometimes translate into extreme displays of admiration. While generally appreciative of the support, Kohli's statement underscores a need for fans to be mindful of the impact their behavior can have on players.

This isn't the first time Kohli has spoken out against excessive fanaticism. In 2022, he expressed his anger and concern after a fan invaded his privacy by filming his hotel room without his consent. He labeled the incident as an "appalling" invasion of privacy and stated, "I'm NOT okay with this kind of fanaticism and absolute invasion of privacy. Please respect people's privacy and not treat them as a commodity for entertainment".

Kohli's respect for Dhoni is well-documented. He has often expressed his admiration for Dhoni's leadership, finishing abilities, and contributions to Indian cricket. There have been instances where Kohli displayed his admiration for Dhoni, such as when he called Dhoni the "greatest finisher ever" after an IPL match. He has also been seen gesturing "Me Too" to fans holding "Miss You Dhoni" banners.

The discussion around fan behavior in cricket isn't new. In May 2025, comments from former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh sparked a debate about the nature of fan loyalty, with some interpreting his words as a suggestion that Dhoni has "real fans" while others rely on "paid fans and PR machinery". This led to a social media clash between fans of Kohli and Dhoni.

Ultimately, Kohli's recent remarks serve as a reminder that while fan support is invaluable, it should not come at the cost of a player's comfort, privacy, or mental well-being. He acknowledged that being able to pursue his dream and bring joy to others is a blessing. His comparison to Dhoni highlights a shared experience of navigating the intensity of Indian cricket fandom and the importance of maintaining a healthy boundary between admiration and obsession.