Indian captain Virat Kohli lavished praise on former skipper MS Dhoni ahead of the blockbuster semi-final clash against New Zealand at the Old Trafford ground in Manchester on Tuesday. India finished on top of the points table with seven wins and a solitary defeat in the league stages to go past Australia after their win over Sri Lanka. The Men in Blue will now be looking forward to becoming the first team to book a spot in the summit clash.

Ahead of the all-important game against the Black Caps, Kohli once again highlighted Dhoni's importance in the team. The veteran wicket-keeper batsman, who turned 38 on Sunday, has been a vital cog in the Indian middle-order and will be aiming to sign off on a high helping India clinch a third World Cup crown. Kohli credited Dhoni for guiding the team during the transition and said he was grateful for everything he has done for Indian cricket.

"I’m sure if you ask anyone they will have special things to say about Dhoni - he’s handled the whole team in transition we understand what he means - you need to appreciate what he’s done for Indian cricket - we are very grateful for what he’s done for all of us - he’s in a very comfortable and happy space," Kohli said in the pre-match press conference ahead of the semi-final.

Kohli added that respect for Dhoni will always be high in his eyes. "Respect for MS Dhoni will always be sky high in my eyes. Really delighted to have played with him for so many years," the Indian captain reckoned.

Kohli, who started his career under Dhoni making his international debut in 2008, has often expressed his admiration for the latter's leadership qualities. Recently in his birthday wish for the former Indian captain, Kohli reinstated that Dhoni will always remain his captain. Both Kohli and Dhoni will have to play a key role in the semis if India are to stay true to their favourites' tag against a struggling New Zealand side.

Dhoni has faced criticism lately for his sluggish form with the willow, however, he has found support from skipper Kohli, who has backed him in difficult times. He has so far notched up 223 runs in seven innings at an average of 44.60 and a strike rate of over 93. He has been sharp as ever behind the wickets but will have to come out on top of his game with the willow to help India seal a spot in the final.