Kohli to fill in for injured India skipper Dhoni for first Test against Oz

India's star batsman Virat Kohli would fill in for injured captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni in the first Test against Australia and has said that a Test captaincy debut in the series opener is his 'big moment', but feels for a nation mourning batsman Phillip Hughes' passing.

Dhoni joined the India camp in Adelaide but is still recovering from a broken thumb and Kohli would fill in for the skipper.

Wicketkeeper-batsman Dhoni, who has steered India to the number one spot in Test, ODI and T20 rankings over his 88-Test career, has remained a source of guidance for understudy Kohli, News.com.au reported.

Kohli, who made a maiden Test ton against Australia in Adelaide three years ago said that Dhoni coming in has always been a help for the younger guys on the team and his input is so important to the team.

Kohli said that he is just discussing plans with the injured skipper, taking a few tips as to what the Indian team is thinking of doing and what Dhoni feels about them, because he's been there, done that, seen possibly every situation in cricket.

Kohli claimed that it's always great to bounce things off Dhoni and get the feedback and utilise what one can.

Dhoni had his first batting session of his team's tour on Sunday and gave some indication that he would be ready to shake off his thumb niggle for Tuesday's Test. However Kohli confirmed at the captain's press conference on Monday that he would lead the Indians in the first Test.

Dhoni is expected to return for the second Test in Brisbane beginning on December 17, the report added.