Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has urged the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly to dive in and extend his support towards senior wicket-keeper batter Wriddhiman Saha, who was recently threatened by a 'journalist'. Shastri said it was shocking to see a player being threatened by a journalist and urged Ganguly to find out who the person is to protect the interest of other players.

Saha on Saturday had shared a screenshot of a conversation between him and a journalist on his official Twitter account. In the chat, the journalist can be seen telling Saha that he doesn't take 'insults kindly' after being seemingly denied an interview by the wicket-keeper batter.

Sharing the screenshot of the chat on Twitter, Saha wrote - "After all of my contributions to Indian cricket..this is what I face from a so-called “Respected” journalist! This is where the journalism has gone." Ever since he shared the post, the cricket fraternity has united to extend their support to Saha.

A number of former cricketers including the likes of Virender Sehwag, Harbhajan Singh and RP Singh among others have expressed their support for Saha and urged him to name and shame the so-called journalist. Shastri too reacted to Saha's post on Sunday and expressed his shock.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-will-not-be-considered-wriddhiman-saha-reveals-what-chief-selector-messaged-him-before-test-axe-454884">'You will not be considered': Saha reveals what chief selector messaged him before Test axe</a>

"Shocking a player being threatened by a journo. Blatant position abuse. Something that's happening too frequently with #TeamIndia. Time for the BCCI PREZ to dive in. Find out who the person is in the interest of every cricketer. This is serious coming from ultimate team man WS," Shastri wrote in a tweet.

Saha was dropped from India's Test squad for the upcoming two-match series against Sri Lanka at home. The Chetan Sharma-led selection panel announced the squad on Saturday leaving out Saha and three other senior players - Ajinkya Rahane, Cheteshwar Pujara and Ishant Sharma.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dravid-suggested-retirement-ganguly-assured-test-spot-wriddhiman-saha-makes-explosive-revelations-454719">Dravid suggested retirement, Ganguly assured Test spot:&nbsp;Saha makes explosive revelations</a>

Saha went on to reveal that he had been told by India head coach Rahul Dravid that he was no more in the team's plans going forward and should consider retirement. After their conversation went public, head coach Dravid was asked about the same after India's 3-0 win in the T20I series against West Indies on Sunday.

Dravid said he was not at all hurt by Saha's comments and that he always respected the wicket-keeper's contributions towards the team. Dravid also stated that Saha deserved honesty and clarity from his side.

"I am not actually hurt at all, I have deep respect for Wriddhiman Saha and his achievements and his contribution to Indian cricket. My conversation with him came from that place, I just felt that he deserved honesty and clarity. I did not want him to learn about it from the media," said Dravid in a press conference.

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has urged the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly to dive in and extend his support towards senior wicket-keeper batter Wriddhiman Saha, who was recently threatened by a 'journalist'.

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has urged the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Sourav Ganguly to dive in and extend his support towards senior wicket-keeper batter Wriddhiman Saha, who was recently threatened by a 'journalist'. Shastri said it was shocking to see a player being threatened by a journalist and urged Ganguly to find out who the person is to protect the interest of other players. Saha on Saturday had shared a screenshot of a conversation between him and a journalist on his official Twitter account. In the chat, the journalist can be seen telling Saha that he doesn't take 'insults kindly' after being seemingly denied an interview by the wicket-keeper batter. Sharing the screenshot of the chat on Twitter, Saha wrote - "After all of my contributions to Indian cricket..this is what I face from a so-called “Respected” journalist! This is where the journalism has gone." Ever since he shared the post, the cricket fraternity has united to extend their support to Saha. A number of former cricketers including the likes of Virender Sehwag, Harbhajan Singh and RP Singh among others have expressed their support for Saha and urged him to name and shame the so-called journalist. Shastri too reacted to Saha's post on Sunday and expressed his shock. Also Read: 'You will not be considered': Saha reveals what chief selector messaged him before Test axe "Shocking a player being threatened by a journo. Blatant position abuse. Something that's happening too frequently with #TeamIndia. Time for the BCCI PREZ to dive in. Find out who the person is in the interest of every cricketer. This is serious coming from ultimate team man WS," Shastri wrote in a tweet. Saha was dropped from India's Test squad for the upcoming two-match series against Sri Lanka at home. The Chetan Sharma-led selection panel announced the squad on Saturday leaving out Saha and three other senior players - Ajinkya Rahane, Cheteshwar Pujara and Ishant Sharma. Also Read: Dravid suggested retirement, Ganguly assured Test spot: Saha makes explosive revelations Saha went on to reveal that he had been told by India head coach Rahul Dravid that he was no more in the team's plans going forward and should consider retirement. After their conversation went public, head coach Dravid was asked about the same after India's 3-0 win in the T20I series against West Indies on Sunday. Dravid said he was not at all hurt by Saha's comments and that he always respected the wicket-keeper's contributions towards the team. Dravid also stated that Saha deserved honesty and clarity from his side. "I am not actually hurt at all, I have deep respect for Wriddhiman Saha and his achievements and his contribution to Indian cricket. My conversation with him came from that place, I just felt that he deserved honesty and clarity. I did not want him to learn about it from the media," said Dravid in a press conference.

Time for Sourav Ganguly to step in: Ravi Shastri 'shocked' as Wriddhiman Saha threatened by a journalist

Ravi Shastri ended his four-year-long stint as Team India's head coach following the Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue's disastrous run in the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. Under Shastri, India achieved considerable success across formats.

Shastri took over from former Indian captain and spinner Anil Kumble, who occupied the head coach's position for a year. After the 2017 Champions Trophy, Shastri took over the reins and formed a lethal pair with former captain Virat Kohli. Under Kohli-Shastri, India developed into a ruthless unit in Tests, dominated bilateral series worldwide in ODIs and T20Is but failed to lead the national side to an ICC title.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/let-him-play-for-that-many-years-md-shami-on-babar-azams-comparison-with-virat-kohli-steve-smith-449269">'Let him play for that many years': Md. Shami on Babar Azam's comparison with Virat Kohli, Steve Smith</a>

During a recent interview with India.com, pace spearhead Mohammed Shami mentioned the stand-out quality of ex-head coach Shastri. “Everybody knows about Ravi Shastri’s pep talk and he speaks just like you see him in the commentary box. There is not an iota of negativity in Ravi Shastri. His positivity rubbed on to the team and that is something that stood out for me,” Shami opined.

Under Shastri's guidance, and the presence of ex-bowling coach Bharat Arun and fielding coach R Sridhar, Shami's fitness improved leaps and bounds. As a result, he took an ODI World Cup hat-trick, remained a regular in whites and sruck at regular intervals&nbsp;in the purest format.

Shami also praised Bharat Arun and said,&nbsp;"It was great working with Bharat Arun when he was the bowling coach of India. At the international level, there is not much to learn in terms of the basics. It was all about discussing bowling plans and he shared his views and it worked really well for us and the team."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/itll-do-him-a-world-of-good-ex-head-coach-ravi-shastri-suggests-how-virat-kohli-can-rejuvenate-his-form-448400">It'll do him a world of good: Ex-head coach Ravi Shastri suggests how Virat Kohli can rejuvenate his form</a>

Shami has been rested for the white-ball series between India and West Indies, which gets underway on February 6 in Ahmedabad. Shastri, meanwhile, has revealed that he will enjoy his break time before stepping onto any new role.&nbsp;

Shastri has been replaced by Rahul Dravid as India's head coach, till the 2023 ODI World Cup in India.

Ravi Shastri ended his four-year-long stint as Team India's head coach following the Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue's disastrous run in the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE.

Ravi Shastri ended his four-year-long stint as Team India's head coach following the Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue's disastrous run in the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. Under Shastri, India achieved considerable success across formats. Shastri took over from former Indian captain and spinner Anil Kumble, who occupied the head coach's position for a year. After the 2017 Champions Trophy, Shastri took over the reins and formed a lethal pair with former captain Virat Kohli. Under Kohli-Shastri, India developed into a ruthless unit in Tests, dominated bilateral series worldwide in ODIs and T20Is but failed to lead the national side to an ICC title. ALSO READ | 'Let him play for that many years': Md. Shami on Babar Azam's comparison with Virat Kohli, Steve Smith During a recent interview with India.com, pace spearhead Mohammed Shami mentioned the stand-out quality of ex-head coach Shastri. “Everybody knows about Ravi Shastri’s pep talk and he speaks just like you see him in the commentary box. There is not an iota of negativity in Ravi Shastri. His positivity rubbed on to the team and that is something that stood out for me,” Shami opined. Under Shastri's guidance, and the presence of ex-bowling coach Bharat Arun and fielding coach R Sridhar, Shami's fitness improved leaps and bounds. As a result, he took an ODI World Cup hat-trick, remained a regular in whites and sruck at regular intervals in the purest format. Shami also praised Bharat Arun and said, "It was great working with Bharat Arun when he was the bowling coach of India. At the international level, there is not much to learn in terms of the basics. It was all about discussing bowling plans and he shared his views and it worked really well for us and the team." ALSO READ | It'll do him a world of good: Ex-head coach Ravi Shastri suggests how Virat Kohli can rejuvenate his form Shami has been rested for the white-ball series between India and West Indies, which gets underway on February 6 in Ahmedabad. Shastri, meanwhile, has revealed that he will enjoy his break time before stepping onto any new role. Shastri has been replaced by Rahul Dravid as India's head coach, till the 2023 ODI World Cup in India.

'There's not an iota of....': Md Shami mentions India's ex-head coach Ravi Shastri's stand-out quality

Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar feels Ravi Shastri's recent comments clearly have an agenda behind them. Manjrekar, who has played for Shastri for the Indian team during his playing days, said he admired the former India head coach for being supportive towards youngsters and being a fighter during his playing days.

However, Shastri's recent comments on cricketing affairs have left Manjrekar unimpressed. Shastri had recently said Virat Kohli could have continued to captain India in Tests for another couple of years and become the most successful captain of all time in the longest format but many wouldn't have been able to digest his success.

Kohli stepped down as India's Test captain earlier this month with 40 wins to his name in 68 matches as a skipper in the longest format. He is India's most successful captain of all time in Test history. Reacting to Shastri's comments about many not being able to 'digest' Kohli's success, Manjrkar said it was not an 'accurate cricketing observation'.

"I don't have an idea. I was a huge admirer of Ravi Shastri. I played under him, he gave players support, a great fighter, senior. This Shastri 2.0 I don't understand. What he says in public is expected, I don't react to it", Manjrekar&nbsp;told News18.

"I don't want to be disrespectful. He doesn't make very intelligent comments, you can see the agenda behind it. It's not an accurate cricketing observation," he added.

Kohli had announced his decision to leave India's Test captaincy, a day after the team's 2-1 defeat in the Test series against South Africa. The decision had sent shockwaves across the cricket fraternity as Kohli had earlier expressed his desire to continue leading India in Tests and ODIs when resigning from the T20I captaincy last year.

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/itll-do-him-a-world-of-good-ex-head-coach-ravi-shastri-suggests-how-virat-kohli-can-rejuvenate-his-form-448400">&nbsp;It'll do him a world of good: Ex-head coach Ravi Shastri suggests how Virat Kohli can rejuvenate his form</a>

At the time of leaving T20I captaincy, Kohli had said he wanted to manage his workload going forward and was thus giving up the leadership role in the shortest format. He was later replaced by Rohit Sharma as ODI captain as the selectors wanted one captain to lead in white-ball cricket. After being sacked as ODI captain, Kohli also decided to quit Test captaincy.

Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar feels Ravi Shastri's recent comments clearly have an agenda behind them. Manjrekar, who has played for Shastri for the Indian team during his playing days, said he admired the former India head coach for being supportive towards youngsters and being a fighter during his playing days.

Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar feels Ravi Shastri's recent comments clearly have an agenda behind them. Manjrekar, who has played for Shastri for the Indian team during his playing days, said he admired the former India head coach for being supportive towards youngsters and being a fighter during his playing days. However, Shastri's recent comments on cricketing affairs have left Manjrekar unimpressed. Shastri had recently said Virat Kohli could have continued to captain India in Tests for another couple of years and become the most successful captain of all time in the longest format but many wouldn't have been able to digest his success. Kohli stepped down as India's Test captain earlier this month with 40 wins to his name in 68 matches as a skipper in the longest format. He is India's most successful captain of all time in Test history. Reacting to Shastri's comments about many not being able to 'digest' Kohli's success, Manjrkar said it was not an 'accurate cricketing observation'. "I don't have an idea. I was a huge admirer of Ravi Shastri. I played under him, he gave players support, a great fighter, senior. This Shastri 2.0 I don't understand. What he says in public is expected, I don't react to it", Manjrekar told News18. "I don't want to be disrespectful. He doesn't make very intelligent comments, you can see the agenda behind it. It's not an accurate cricketing observation," he added. Kohli had announced his decision to leave India's Test captaincy, a day after the team's 2-1 defeat in the Test series against South Africa. The decision had sent shockwaves across the cricket fraternity as Kohli had earlier expressed his desire to continue leading India in Tests and ODIs when resigning from the T20I captaincy last year. Also Read: It'll do him a world of good: Ex-head coach Ravi Shastri suggests how Virat Kohli can rejuvenate his form At the time of leaving T20I captaincy, Kohli had said he wanted to manage his workload going forward and was thus giving up the leadership role in the shortest format. He was later replaced by Rohit Sharma as ODI captain as the selectors wanted one captain to lead in white-ball cricket. After being sacked as ODI captain, Kohli also decided to quit Test captaincy.

I don't want to be disrespectful but Ravi Shastri's recent comments have agenda: Sanjay Manjrekar

A lot of things have transpired in Indian cricket following their tour of England and IPL 2021. Since the T20 World Cup debacle, in the UAE, Ravi Shastri's tenure as head coach ended and he was replaced by Rahul Dravid. With Dravid stepping in, plethora of changes have taken place in the leadership group.&nbsp;

While Virat Kohli was set to step down as the T20I captain post the World Cup, he was sacked as the ODI captain with Rohit Sharma replacing him as the white-ball skipper. During the South Africa tour, Kohli also stepped down as the Test captain following the red-ball series. Thus, the upcoming months are a tough and dicey period for Indian cricket, which is undergoing a transition in the senior men's team.

Many veteran players such as Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Ishant Sharma, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, etc. are also fighting for their spots due to intense competition with the younger bunch of players and their own dip in form. Thus, Shastri opened up on the transition period in Indian cricket and shared a word of advice for his successor Dravid.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/itll-do-him-a-world-of-good-ex-head-coach-ravi-shastri-suggests-how-virat-kohli-can-rejuvenate-his-form-448400">It'll do him a world of good: Ex-head coach Ravi Shastri suggests how Virat Kohli can rejuvenate his form</a>

Talking on Shoaib Akhtar's Youtube channel, Shastri said, “It’s a very important period for Indian cricket, there will be a period of transition in the next 8-10 months. It’s important to identify the right kind of players who will take you forward in 4-5 years. I always believe that there should be a mix between youth and experience.

"Sometimes change is needed if you aim for the future. This is the time. They need to look for youth in the next six months, need to be quick. If you stick with the same for too long a period then the adjustment will be very difficult," he opined.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sourav-ganguly-told-ravi-shastri-boss-its-time-to-go-personal-attacks-have-hurt-india-ex-pakistan-captain-448343">Sourav Ganguly told Ravi Shastri 'boss it's time to go', personal attacks have hurt India: Ex-Pakistan captain</a>

Dravid-Rohit-led Indian team is currently gearing up for their upcoming white-ball series versus Kieron Pollard-led West Indies at home. They will play three ODIs and T20Is, each, before hosting Sri Lanka in two Tests and three T20Is. The action will then shift to the IPL 2022 edition.

A lot of things have transpired in Indian cricket following their tour of England and IPL 2021. Since the T20 World Cup debacle, in the UAE, Ravi Shastri's tenure as head coach ended and he was replaced by Rahul Dravid.

A lot of things have transpired in Indian cricket following their tour of England and IPL 2021. Since the T20 World Cup debacle, in the UAE, Ravi Shastri's tenure as head coach ended and he was replaced by Rahul Dravid. With Dravid stepping in, plethora of changes have taken place in the leadership group. While Virat Kohli was set to step down as the T20I captain post the World Cup, he was sacked as the ODI captain with Rohit Sharma replacing him as the white-ball skipper. During the South Africa tour, Kohli also stepped down as the Test captain following the red-ball series. Thus, the upcoming months are a tough and dicey period for Indian cricket, which is undergoing a transition in the senior men's team. Many veteran players such as Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Ishant Sharma, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, etc. are also fighting for their spots due to intense competition with the younger bunch of players and their own dip in form. Thus, Shastri opened up on the transition period in Indian cricket and shared a word of advice for his successor Dravid. ALSO READ | It'll do him a world of good: Ex-head coach Ravi Shastri suggests how Virat Kohli can rejuvenate his form Talking on Shoaib Akhtar's Youtube channel, Shastri said, “It’s a very important period for Indian cricket, there will be a period of transition in the next 8-10 months. It’s important to identify the right kind of players who will take you forward in 4-5 years. I always believe that there should be a mix between youth and experience. "Sometimes change is needed if you aim for the future. This is the time. They need to look for youth in the next six months, need to be quick. If you stick with the same for too long a period then the adjustment will be very difficult," he opined. ALSO READ | Sourav Ganguly told Ravi Shastri 'boss it's time to go', personal attacks have hurt India: Ex-Pakistan captain Dravid-Rohit-led Indian team is currently gearing up for their upcoming white-ball series versus Kieron Pollard-led West Indies at home. They will play three ODIs and T20Is, each, before hosting Sri Lanka in two Tests and three T20Is. The action will then shift to the IPL 2022 edition.

'If you stick with the same for too long.....': Ravi Shastri shares word of advice for successor Rahul Dravid

A lot has changed in Indian cricket in the past few months, especially in the senior men's team. Rohit Sharma has been appointed as the limited-overs captain, after Virat Kohli resigned as the T20I captain and was sacked as the ODI skipper.

After the India-South Africa series, in the rainbow nation early this year, Kohli also resigned as the Test captain. Many believe his fallout with the BCCI and India's T20 World Cup debacle were the reasons behind the 33-year-old resigning from captaincy altogether. Moreover, Kohli's own form hasn't been as per his standards, even though he continues to contribute with vital fifties across formats.

Thus, former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri opened up on Kohli's decision of quitting as Test captain and also suggested how the right-hander can come back to his usual best with the bat.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sourav-ganguly-told-ravi-shastri-boss-its-time-to-go-personal-attacks-have-hurt-india-ex-pakistan-captain-448343">Sourav Ganguly told Ravi Shastri 'boss it's time to go', personal attacks have hurt India: Ex-Pakistan captain</a>

Speaking to Shoaib Akhtar for the former Pakistan cricketer's YouTube channel, Shastri opined on Kohli's recent decisions and said,&nbsp;"The pressure started building. People were looking for opportunities. No human being is perfect. I have seen greats of the game quit captaincy to focus on their cricket whether it's Gavaskar, Tendulkar or MS. He played 94 (90) Tests, he could have easily played 10 or 15 more matches but he gave it up.

"He realises he is 33, he realises he has 5 years of good cricket ahead of him. If he can calm down, focus on his batting, take one game at a time, probably take a break from the game as well, I think, if he goes out for 2-3 months, if he takes a break from one series, it will do him a world of good," Shastri further suggested.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rohit-sharma-to-rishabh-pant-top-5-contenders-who-can-succeed-virat-kohli-as-indias-test-captain-448152">From Rohit Sharma to Rishabh Pant: Top 5 contenders who can succeed Virat Kohli as India's Test captain</a>

He added, "I think, with Virat also he realised it was getting to him, especially in this bio-bubble environment, leading in all 3 formats of the game. You can't take a break also. He did the right thing by quitting from white-ball cricket. When it came to Test cricket, I was a little surprised because for the last 5 years we were the No. 1 team in the longest format of the game.

"After one series defeat, it doesn't mean he had to quit captaincy. At the end of the day, I always respect a cricketer's judgement because I don't know what he is feeling. Sometimes when it comes to here (neck), your body tells you 'enough'."

Kohli will next be seen in the forthcoming India-West Indies ODIs and T20Is at home. The WI tour of India commences on February 6 with the three ODIs to be held in Ahmedabad whereas the T20Is will take place at Eden Gardens, Kolkata.

A lot has changed in Indian cricket in the past few months, especially in the senior men's team. Rohit Sharma has been appointed as the limited-overs captain, after Virat Kohli resigned as the T20I captain and was sacked as the ODI skipper.

A lot has changed in Indian cricket in the past few months, especially in the senior men's team. Rohit Sharma has been appointed as the limited-overs captain, after Virat Kohli resigned as the T20I captain and was sacked as the ODI skipper. After the India-South Africa series, in the rainbow nation early this year, Kohli also resigned as the Test captain. Many believe his fallout with the BCCI and India's T20 World Cup debacle were the reasons behind the 33-year-old resigning from captaincy altogether. Moreover, Kohli's own form hasn't been as per his standards, even though he continues to contribute with vital fifties across formats. Thus, former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri opened up on Kohli's decision of quitting as Test captain and also suggested how the right-hander can come back to his usual best with the bat. ALSO READ | Sourav Ganguly told Ravi Shastri 'boss it's time to go', personal attacks have hurt India: Ex-Pakistan captain Speaking to Shoaib Akhtar for the former Pakistan cricketer's YouTube channel, Shastri opined on Kohli's recent decisions and said, "The pressure started building. People were looking for opportunities. No human being is perfect. I have seen greats of the game quit captaincy to focus on their cricket whether it's Gavaskar, Tendulkar or MS. He played 94 (90) Tests, he could have easily played 10 or 15 more matches but he gave it up. "He realises he is 33, he realises he has 5 years of good cricket ahead of him. If he can calm down, focus on his batting, take one game at a time, probably take a break from the game as well, I think, if he goes out for 2-3 months, if he takes a break from one series, it will do him a world of good," Shastri further suggested. ALSO READ | From Rohit Sharma to Rishabh Pant: Top 5 contenders who can succeed Virat Kohli as India's Test captain He added, "I think, with Virat also he realised it was getting to him, especially in this bio-bubble environment, leading in all 3 formats of the game. You can't take a break also. He did the right thing by quitting from white-ball cricket. When it came to Test cricket, I was a little surprised because for the last 5 years we were the No. 1 team in the longest format of the game. "After one series defeat, it doesn't mean he had to quit captaincy. At the end of the day, I always respect a cricketer's judgement because I don't know what he is feeling. Sometimes when it comes to here (neck), your body tells you 'enough'." Kohli will next be seen in the forthcoming India-West Indies ODIs and T20Is at home. The WI tour of India commences on February 6 with the three ODIs to be held in Ahmedabad whereas the T20Is will take place at Eden Gardens, Kolkata.

It'll do him a world of good: Ex-head coach Ravi Shastri suggests how Virat Kohli can rejuvenate his form

Indian cricket has undergone significant changes since the conclusion of the T20 World Cup 2021 last year. While Ravi Shastri was replaced by Rahul Dravid as the new head coach, Virat Kohli is no more leading India in any format of the game. Kohli had stepped down as T20I captain willingly last year before being sacked as the ODI captain.

He decided to quit Test captaincy earlier this month which has further resulted in turmoil in Indian cricket. With the team suffering crushing defeats in both the Test and the ODI series against South Africa recently, questions have been raised on the side's morale and confidence going forward.

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has slammed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for not dealing with the situation properly. Latif believes BCCI president Sourav Ganguly had a role to play in Shastri's exit as head coach and that BCCI would not have let the former all-rounder continue in his role even if he wanted to after his contract expired.

"All this began happening when Anil Kumble was wrongly removed as coach. Ravi Shastri had taken no coaching courses and yet he directly took entry as the coach. This was a strong group – Kumble had over 600 wickets and Sourav Ganguly and Rahul Dravid were his teammates. This trio is very strong," Latif said in a video on YouTube channel Caught Behind.

Latif claimed Shastri was told by BCCI president Ganguly that there was no way he can get another extension as head coach and that it was time for him to go. Shastri had announced before the T20 World Cup 2021 that he will be leaving the India head coach post after the conclusion of the tournament last year.&nbsp;

However, as per the former Pakistan captain, Ganguly had a role in his exit and such personal attacks have hurt Indian cricket in the last few months.

"By all means, Ganguly told Shastri 'boss, it's time to go' even if Shastri had considered continuing as coach. This whole thing has been building up since before the T20 World Cup, these are personal attacks and it has impacted Indian cricket. What happened with Pakistan in the early 1990s is happening today with Indian cricket," Latif said.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/should-jasprit-bumrah-succeed-virat-kohli-as-indias-test-captain-ex-head-coach-ravi-shastri-answers-448201">Should Jasprit Bumrah succeed Virat Kohli as India's Test captain? Ex-head coach Ravi Shastri answers</a>

Latif believes KL Rahul isn't the right guy to help Indian cricket recover from the current situation and he feels Rohit Sharma will have to work hard on his fitness to ensure he can manage his workload well and take Indian cricket forward.

"Such off-field tensions hamper the performances of the team and that is exactly what has happened. Who was sitting with Kohli? Siraj, on the left. On his right, there were players who nobody knew. That picture stated it all. KL Rahul cannot handle the team, and it remains to be seen how Rohit Sharma maintains his fitness if he is to be the man to usher Indian cricket into the future," he added.

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Indian cricket has undergone significant changes since the conclusion of the T20 World Cup 2021 last year. While Ravi Shastri was replaced by Rahul Dravid as the new head coach, Virat Kohli is no more leading India in any format of the game.

Indian cricket has undergone significant changes since the conclusion of the T20 World Cup 2021 last year. While Ravi Shastri was replaced by Rahul Dravid as the new head coach, Virat Kohli is no more leading India in any format of the game. Kohli had stepped down as T20I captain willingly last year before being sacked as the ODI captain. He decided to quit Test captaincy earlier this month which has further resulted in turmoil in Indian cricket. With the team suffering crushing defeats in both the Test and the ODI series against South Africa recently, questions have been raised on the side's morale and confidence going forward. Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has slammed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for not dealing with the situation properly. Latif believes BCCI president Sourav Ganguly had a role to play in Shastri's exit as head coach and that BCCI would not have let the former all-rounder continue in his role even if he wanted to after his contract expired. "All this began happening when Anil Kumble was wrongly removed as coach. Ravi Shastri had taken no coaching courses and yet he directly took entry as the coach. This was a strong group – Kumble had over 600 wickets and Sourav Ganguly and Rahul Dravid were his teammates. This trio is very strong," Latif said in a video on YouTube channel Caught Behind. Latif claimed Shastri was told by BCCI president Ganguly that there was no way he can get another extension as head coach and that it was time for him to go. Shastri had announced before the T20 World Cup 2021 that he will be leaving the India head coach post after the conclusion of the tournament last year. However, as per the former Pakistan captain, Ganguly had a role in his exit and such personal attacks have hurt Indian cricket in the last few months. "By all means, Ganguly told Shastri 'boss, it's time to go' even if Shastri had considered continuing as coach. This whole thing has been building up since before the T20 World Cup, these are personal attacks and it has impacted Indian cricket. What happened with Pakistan in the early 1990s is happening today with Indian cricket," Latif said. Also Read: Should Jasprit Bumrah succeed Virat Kohli as India's Test captain? Ex-head coach Ravi Shastri answers Latif believes KL Rahul isn't the right guy to help Indian cricket recover from the current situation and he feels Rohit Sharma will have to work hard on his fitness to ensure he can manage his workload well and take Indian cricket forward. "Such off-field tensions hamper the performances of the team and that is exactly what has happened. Who was sitting with Kohli? Siraj, on the left. On his right, there were players who nobody knew. That picture stated it all. KL Rahul cannot handle the team, and it remains to be seen how Rohit Sharma maintains his fitness if he is to be the man to usher Indian cricket into the future," he added.

Sourav Ganguly told Ravi Shastri 'boss it's time to go', personal attacks have hurt India: Ex-Pakistan captain

The senior Indian men's cricket team is going through a transition period of late. While Virat Kohli was succeeded by Rohit Sharma as India's white-ball captain, the 33-year-old Kohli resigned as the Test captain as well on January 15, a day after the national side went down to South Africa in the three Tests in the rainbow nation.

After Kohli's resignation, all eyes are now on who will succeed him as the Test captain. Under Kohli, India had a great run in the red-ball format. The national team dominated in whites at home, won a Test series in Australia, ensured an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the United Kingdom during the incomplete five Tests in mid-2021 and ended as runners-up in the inaugural WTC final.

Hence, Kohli's successor will have a huge task to take the team forward. At present, there are five contenders to succeed Kohli, in the form of Rohit, KL Rahul, Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant along with R Ashwin's name also doing the rounds in some discussions.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rohit-sharma-to-rishabh-pant-top-5-contenders-who-can-succeed-virat-kohli-as-indias-test-captain-448152">From Rohit Sharma to Rishabh Pant: Top 5 contenders who can succeed Virat Kohli as India's Test captain</a>

Speaking on Ex-Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar's Youtube channel, former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri also joined the bandwagon. While he had earlier stated that Rohit can take over in whites, Shastri pointed out why he doesn't think Bumrah will get the nod. He&nbsp;said, "No, I never thought of it. In India we've had enough. And I never thought in that fashion at that time. In India it's going to be difficult for a fast bowler to captain. A fast bowler captain has to be an all-rounder basically or he has to be a Bob Willis kind of captain who in conditions where they play, a fast bowler will always be in the game, he will be aggressive."

"He'll be looking to win games and take wickets. Very rarely has a fast bowler been there for too long. Unless he is a genuine all-rounder like Kapil, Imran or Sir Garfield," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/why-cant-harbhajan-names-virat-kohlis-successor-as-test-captain-if-rohit-sharma-declines-offer-448070">'Why can't...' - Harbhajan names Virat Kohli's successor as Test captain if Rohit Sharma declines offer</a>

Speaking to&nbsp;Sports Tak,&nbsp;recently Harbhajan Singh had backed Bumrah to take the top job and said,&nbsp;"According to me, Rohit Sharma should be the captain of all three formats. If he is totally fit then he should captain all three formats. If Rohit feels that he doesn't want to captain all three formats. Then in Test cricket, I am on Jasprit Bumrah's side. He should be given the captaincy because a fast bowler is always thought that they think too big."

It will be interesting to see who succeeds Kohli. India's next red-ball assignment is at home, versus Sri Lanka starting in end February.&nbsp;

The senior Indian men's cricket team is going through a transition period of late. While Virat Kohli was succeeded by Rohit Sharma as India's white-ball captain, the 33-year-old Kohli resigned as the Test captain as well on January 15, a day after the national side went down to South Africa in the three Tests in the rainbow nation.

The senior Indian men's cricket team is going through a transition period of late. While Virat Kohli was succeeded by Rohit Sharma as India's white-ball captain, the 33-year-old Kohli resigned as the Test captain as well on January 15, a day after the national side went down to South Africa in the three Tests in the rainbow nation. After Kohli's resignation, all eyes are now on who will succeed him as the Test captain. Under Kohli, India had a great run in the red-ball format. The national team dominated in whites at home, won a Test series in Australia, ensured an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the United Kingdom during the incomplete five Tests in mid-2021 and ended as runners-up in the inaugural WTC final. Hence, Kohli's successor will have a huge task to take the team forward. At present, there are five contenders to succeed Kohli, in the form of Rohit, KL Rahul, Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant along with R Ashwin's name also doing the rounds in some discussions. ALSO READ | From Rohit Sharma to Rishabh Pant: Top 5 contenders who can succeed Virat Kohli as India's Test captain Speaking on Ex-Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar's Youtube channel, former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri also joined the bandwagon. While he had earlier stated that Rohit can take over in whites, Shastri pointed out why he doesn't think Bumrah will get the nod. He said, "No, I never thought of it. In India we've had enough. And I never thought in that fashion at that time. In India it's going to be difficult for a fast bowler to captain. A fast bowler captain has to be an all-rounder basically or he has to be a Bob Willis kind of captain who in conditions where they play, a fast bowler will always be in the game, he will be aggressive." "He'll be looking to win games and take wickets. Very rarely has a fast bowler been there for too long. Unless he is a genuine all-rounder like Kapil, Imran or Sir Garfield," he added. ALSO READ | 'Why can't...' - Harbhajan names Virat Kohli's successor as Test captain if Rohit Sharma declines offer Speaking to Sports Tak, recently Harbhajan Singh had backed Bumrah to take the top job and said, "According to me, Rohit Sharma should be the captain of all three formats. If he is totally fit then he should captain all three formats. If Rohit feels that he doesn't want to captain all three formats. Then in Test cricket, I am on Jasprit Bumrah's side. He should be given the captaincy because a fast bowler is always thought that they think too big." It will be interesting to see who succeeds Kohli. India's next red-ball assignment is at home, versus Sri Lanka starting in end February.

Should Jasprit Bumrah succeed Virat Kohli as India's Test captain? Ex-head coach Ravi Shastri answers

Former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri is now enjoying his break after stepping down from the top post in late 2021. Shastri recently interacted with the Rawalpindi Express Shoaib Akhtar and spilled the beans on the contrasting personalities of India's famed trio -- Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and former captain MS Dhoni.

Kohli, Rohit and Dhoni were an integral part of Team India during Shastri's coaching tenure in the white-ball formats (prior to Dhoni's sabbatical and international retirement). Shastri has, thus, closely worked with the trio and seen them handle things in a different manner on the 22-yard cricket strip.

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During the conversation, Shastri pointed out how Virat is different from Dhoni and Rohit, who remain a bit similar in personality. In addition, the former Indian all-rounder made heads turn by revealing that he still doesn't have Dhoni's contact number on his cellphone. "Virat is like a beast on the field, once he steps on the field, he just wants to compete and he does not care about anything else. But, completely opposite off the field, absolutely calm and chill. Rohit is laid back pretty much like MS Dhoni. MS is just unreal, one of a kind, whether it's a duck, century, lifting the World Cup, he does not care," Shastri said on Akhtar's Youtube channel.&nbsp;

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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-is-one-of-the-sharpest-cricket-minds-greg-chappell-heaps-praise-on-former-indian-captain-447839">MS Dhoni is one of the sharpest cricket minds: Greg Chappell heaps praise on former Indian captain</a>

He added "I have seen many players but there is none like MS Dhoni. Sachin had a fantastic temperament but got angry at times, but MS, nothing at all. Till today, I don't have his phone number, I've not even asked for it. I know he does not carry a phone around with him."

Talking about Kohli and Rohit, the two are gearing up for India's home season, versus West Indies and Sri Lanka. On the other hand, Dhoni will be seen in action in the forthcoming IPL 2022 edition in India.&nbsp;

Former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri is now enjoying his break after stepping down from the top post in late 2021. Shastri recently interacted with the Rawalpindi Express Shoaib Akhtar and spilled the beans on the contrasting personalities of India's famed trio -- Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and former captain MS Dhoni.

Former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri is now enjoying his break after stepping down from the top post in late 2021. Shastri recently interacted with the Rawalpindi Express Shoaib Akhtar and spilled the beans on the contrasting personalities of India's famed trio -- Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and former captain MS Dhoni. Kohli, Rohit and Dhoni were an integral part of Team India during Shastri's coaching tenure in the white-ball formats (prior to Dhoni's sabbatical and international retirement). Shastri has, thus, closely worked with the trio and seen them handle things in a different manner on the 22-yard cricket strip. ALSO READ | BCCI announces Rohit-led India squad for WI series; Jasprit Bumrah, Md Shami rested, Jadeja misses out During the conversation, Shastri pointed out how Virat is different from Dhoni and Rohit, who remain a bit similar in personality. In addition, the former Indian all-rounder made heads turn by revealing that he still doesn't have Dhoni's contact number on his cellphone. "Virat is like a beast on the field, once he steps on the field, he just wants to compete and he does not care about anything else. But, completely opposite off the field, absolutely calm and chill. Rohit is laid back pretty much like MS Dhoni. MS is just unreal, one of a kind, whether it's a duck, century, lifting the World Cup, he does not care," Shastri said on Akhtar's Youtube channel. Ravi Shastri giving insights about Dhoni and Rohit pic.twitter.com/sQ9LAHAL8R — Rishixvi (@Rishixvi) January 26, 2022 × ALSO READ | MS Dhoni is one of the sharpest cricket minds: Greg Chappell heaps praise on former Indian captain He added "I have seen many players but there is none like MS Dhoni. Sachin had a fantastic temperament but got angry at times, but MS, nothing at all. Till today, I don't have his phone number, I've not even asked for it. I know he does not carry a phone around with him." Talking about Kohli and Rohit, the two are gearing up for India's home season, versus West Indies and Sri Lanka. On the other hand, Dhoni will be seen in action in the forthcoming IPL 2022 edition in India.

Shastri opines on Kohli, Rohit and Dhoni's personalities, reveals whose phone number he doesn't have

India endured a disappointing outing in the recently-concluded tour of South Africa as the visitors lost both Test and ODI series against the hosts. India got off to a great start in the three-match Test series with a comprehensive win in the series-opener in Centurion before losing the next two games in a row to concede the series 2-1.

India were deemed favourites against a South African team currently in transition after the retirements of some of the greats like AB de Villiers and Faf du Plessis among others. However, India failed to live up to their favourites tag despite making a brilliant start as their dreams of clinching a maiden Test series win in South Africa were left shattered.

India were expected to bounce back strongly in the three-match ODI series. However, South Africa continued their winning run and registered a 3-0 whitewash against the KL Rahul-led side. India's defeat has led to severe criticism from all corners with many questioning the team's morale and composition in the aftermath of Virat Kohli leaving captaincy across all formats.

However, former India head coach Ravi Shastri believes the criticism is too far-fetched and that winning and losing is part of the game. Shastri cited how India have dominated in Test cricket over the last 5-6 years and continue to be one of the best Test teams in the world despite not managing to beat the Proteas in their own backyard.

"If you lose one series, you people start criticising. You can't win every game, there will be wins and losses," Ravi Shastri told the PTI.

"How can the standard go down suddenly? For five years, you have been the number one side in the world. When you have a win ratio of 65 per cent over the last five years, what is there to worry about? What is there to worry about, our rival teams should worry," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/there-is-a-rift-in-indian-team-virat-kohli-didnt-quit-test-captaincy-because-he-wanted-to-shoaib-akhtar-447351">There is a rift in Indian team, Virat Kohli didn't quit Test captaincy because he wanted to: Shoaib Akhtar</a>

India head coach Rahul Dravid had earlier termed the ODI series loss in South Africa an 'eye opener' for the team ahead of the ODI World Cup next year. Dravid also lamented the absence of all-rounders like Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja in the squad which would have provided balance to India's middle-order in the ODI series.

India endured a disappointing outing in the recently-concluded tour of South Africa as the visitors lost both Test and ODI series against the hosts. India got off to a great start in the three-match Test series with a comprehensive win in the series-opener in Centurion before losing the next two games in a row to concede the series 2-1.

India endured a disappointing outing in the recently-concluded tour of South Africa as the visitors lost both Test and ODI series against the hosts. India got off to a great start in the three-match Test series with a comprehensive win in the series-opener in Centurion before losing the next two games in a row to concede the series 2-1. India were deemed favourites against a South African team currently in transition after the retirements of some of the greats like AB de Villiers and Faf du Plessis among others. However, India failed to live up to their favourites tag despite making a brilliant start as their dreams of clinching a maiden Test series win in South Africa were left shattered. India were expected to bounce back strongly in the three-match ODI series. However, South Africa continued their winning run and registered a 3-0 whitewash against the KL Rahul-led side. India's defeat has led to severe criticism from all corners with many questioning the team's morale and composition in the aftermath of Virat Kohli leaving captaincy across all formats. However, former India head coach Ravi Shastri believes the criticism is too far-fetched and that winning and losing is part of the game. Shastri cited how India have dominated in Test cricket over the last 5-6 years and continue to be one of the best Test teams in the world despite not managing to beat the Proteas in their own backyard. "If you lose one series, you people start criticising. You can't win every game, there will be wins and losses," Ravi Shastri told the PTI. "How can the standard go down suddenly? For five years, you have been the number one side in the world. When you have a win ratio of 65 per cent over the last five years, what is there to worry about? What is there to worry about, our rival teams should worry," he added. Also Read: There is a rift in Indian team, Virat Kohli didn't quit Test captaincy because he wanted to: Shoaib Akhtar India head coach Rahul Dravid had earlier termed the ODI series loss in South Africa an 'eye opener' for the team ahead of the ODI World Cup next year. Dravid also lamented the absence of all-rounders like Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja in the squad which would have provided balance to India's middle-order in the ODI series.

'How can the standard go down?': Ravi Shastri reacts to India's Test and ODI debacle in South Africa

On January 15, Virat Kohli stepped down as the Indian Test captain. This came as a shocker for the whole cricketing fraternity, given the 33-year-old led India with great success in the red-ball format. Kohli's decision came on the following day after India had lost the three-match Test series versus South Africa, in the African nation.

With him stepping down as the Test captain, Kohli's overall captaincy tenure for Team India also came to an end. Talking about Kohli's credentials as a captain in the purest format, he led India to their maiden Test series win in Australia, ensured an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in the United Kingdom in mid-2021 and to the inaugural WTC final. In addition, India were dominant at home under his leadership skills.

Kohli's successor, thus, has huge shoes to fill in. Ex-head coach Ravi Shastri feels Rohit Sharma, who is already the limited-overs captain, should take over as the Test captain as well, with wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant being groomed under him.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lot-of-people-wouldnt-have-been-able-to-digest-virat-kohli-reaching-50-60-wins-as-test-captain-ravi-shastri-446945">Lot of people wouldn't have been able to digest Virat Kohli reaching 50-60 wins as Test captain: Ravi Shastri</a>

Former Indian coach Shastri has suggested Rohit's name as the successor and called him the natural choice, with him already being the vice-captain in whites.&nbsp;

"If Rohit is fit, why can't he be the captain in Tests too. He was appointed vice-captain for the South Africa series but he couldn't go there because of injuries. So why not, if he was made the vice-captain, why can't he be promoted to captaincy,"&nbsp;Shastri said to&nbsp;India Today.&nbsp;

"Rohit's vice-captain has to be seen. Rahul Dravid has to see who that person could be because that player has to be a certainty in the playing XI. I think, why name the vice-captain at all? Decide on the tour who is the most experienced player, who is playing well. You announce your vice-captain in advance, and later you realise that your vice-captain doesn't fit in your XI," stated the ex-Indian head coach and all-rounder.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rahul-dravid-has-a-big-task-ahead-has-to-prove-he-is-not-an-overrated-coach-shoaib-akhtar-446926">Rahul Dravid has a big task ahead, has to prove he is not an overrated coach: Shoaib Akhtar</a>

Shastri opined on Pant and claimed he can be looked upon as a future captain. "Rishabh is a tremendous young player. As a coach, I was very fond of him, his attitude and the good thing about him was that he would always listen to you. A lot of people say, he always does what he wants but that's not true. He reads the game well and would always put my team effort first than self. So he should always be kept in mind for leadership," said Shastri.&nbsp;

India's next assignment in the red-ball format is versus Sri Lanka at home, in February-March. Before that, the national selectors will have to take a call and name the next Test captain. Some other contenders are Jasprit Bumrah, KL Rahul or R Ashwin.

On January 15, Virat Kohli stepped down as the Indian Test captain. This came as a shocker for the whole cricketing fraternity, given the 33-year-old led India with great success in the red-ball format.

On January 15, Virat Kohli stepped down as the Indian Test captain. This came as a shocker for the whole cricketing fraternity, given the 33-year-old led India with great success in the red-ball format. Kohli's decision came on the following day after India had lost the three-match Test series versus South Africa, in the African nation. With him stepping down as the Test captain, Kohli's overall captaincy tenure for Team India also came to an end. Talking about Kohli's credentials as a captain in the purest format, he led India to their maiden Test series win in Australia, ensured an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in the United Kingdom in mid-2021 and to the inaugural WTC final. In addition, India were dominant at home under his leadership skills. Kohli's successor, thus, has huge shoes to fill in. Ex-head coach Ravi Shastri feels Rohit Sharma, who is already the limited-overs captain, should take over as the Test captain as well, with wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant being groomed under him. ALSO READ | Lot of people wouldn't have been able to digest Virat Kohli reaching 50-60 wins as Test captain: Ravi Shastri Former Indian coach Shastri has suggested Rohit's name as the successor and called him the natural choice, with him already being the vice-captain in whites. "If Rohit is fit, why can't he be the captain in Tests too. He was appointed vice-captain for the South Africa series but he couldn't go there because of injuries. So why not, if he was made the vice-captain, why can't he be promoted to captaincy," Shastri said to India Today. "Rohit's vice-captain has to be seen. Rahul Dravid has to see who that person could be because that player has to be a certainty in the playing XI. I think, why name the vice-captain at all? Decide on the tour who is the most experienced player, who is playing well. You announce your vice-captain in advance, and later you realise that your vice-captain doesn't fit in your XI," stated the ex-Indian head coach and all-rounder. ALSO READ | Rahul Dravid has a big task ahead, has to prove he is not an overrated coach: Shoaib Akhtar Shastri opined on Pant and claimed he can be looked upon as a future captain. "Rishabh is a tremendous young player. As a coach, I was very fond of him, his attitude and the good thing about him was that he would always listen to you. A lot of people say, he always does what he wants but that's not true. He reads the game well and would always put my team effort first than self. So he should always be kept in mind for leadership," said Shastri. India's next assignment in the red-ball format is versus Sri Lanka at home, in February-March. Before that, the national selectors will have to take a call and name the next Test captain. Some other contenders are Jasprit Bumrah, KL Rahul or R Ashwin.

Ravi Shastri feels Pant should be kept in mind for leadership, goes ahead with senior pro as next Test captain

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has taken a dig at Virat Kohli's critics after the latter's decision to quit as India's Test captain. Kohli announced his resignation as the Test captain of the Indian team last week, a day after India's 2-1 loss in the Test series against South Africa away from home.&nbsp;

Kohli's decision came as a shock to many as he had expressed his desire to continue leading the Indian team in Tests and ODIs while stepping down as T20I captain in September last year. However, he was later sacked as ODI captain as the selectors wanted Rohit Sharma to lead the team in both white-ball formats. Kohli then had a public fallout with the BCCI after an explosive presser in December last year before quitting Test captaincy last week.

Shastri said Kohli could have easily led the Indian team in Tests for at least another two years but some people might not have been able to digest the fact that he could have reached 50-60 &nbsp;wins as captain. Kohli is the most successful Indian captain in Test history with 40 wins from 68 matches as the skipper of the side.

"Whether Virat could have continued to lead India in Tests. For sure, he could have led India for at least 2 years because next two years India would be playing at home and who is coming over - 9 and 10 jacks, going by the rankings. But he would have then made it to 50-60 wins under his captaincy and a lot of people will not be able to digest that fact," Shastri was quoted as saying by India Today.

"Two years, he could have carried on but we should respect his decision. In any other country, this kind of record is incredible. You won against Australia, England and lost 1-2 to South Africa but still, there are debates if he should be the captain or not," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/there-are-people-against-him-shoaib-akhtar-on-virat-kohlis-decision-to-quit-indias-test-captaincy-446852">'There are people against him': Shoaib Akhtar on Virat Kohli's decision to quit India's Test captaincy</a>

Kohli didn't only sign off as India's most successful Test captain but also the fourth-best captain all-time in the longest format overall. Only greats like Graeme Smith (53), Ricky Ponting (48), and Steve Waugh (41) have more Test wins as captain than Kohli. The 33-year-old&nbsp;needed just 14 more wins as captain to become the most successful Test captain of all time in Test history.

Kohli enjoyed a great relationship with Shastri during his tenure as the head coach of the Indian team and the duo inspired India to several memorable Test wins both at home and away from home. India dominated the top spot in the ICC Test rankings for years under the duo's leadership and were a force to reckon with in the longest format.

Talking about Kohli's decision to quit Test captaincy, Shastri said the batting maestro might have felt the need to take some pressure off his back and focus only on his personal game. Shastri said it was an individual decision as Kohli must have felt he has already achieved what he wanted to as the captain of the Test team.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/harbhajan-singh-issues-warning-to-virat-kohli-when-you-are-captain-you-dont-worry-about-selection-446709">Harbhajan Singh issues warning to Virat Kohli: 'When you are captain you don't worry about selection'</a>

"Virat Kohli led India in 5-6 years in Tests and out of those, five years India was no. 1. No Indian captain has this kind of record and there are only a handful of captains world over with this kind of record. So when the most successful captain decides to step down as captain it's an individual's decision because his record of 40 wins is unprecedented," said Shastri.

"So he only knows how much is he enjoying captaincy. When Sachin Tendulkar and MS Dhoni were not enjoying captaincy, they left. Similarly, when Virat thought that he had won 40 matches, six years he had been leading and now he wants to enjoy his cricket. He wants to focus on his batting and release a bit of pressure and it happens with a lot of individuals," he added.

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has taken a dig at Virat Kohli's critics after the latter's decision to quit as India's Test captain. Kohli announced his resignation as the Test captain of the Indian team last week, a day after India's 2-1 loss in the Test series against South Africa away from home.

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has taken a dig at Virat Kohli's critics after the latter's decision to quit as India's Test captain. Kohli announced his resignation as the Test captain of the Indian team last week, a day after India's 2-1 loss in the Test series against South Africa away from home. Kohli's decision came as a shock to many as he had expressed his desire to continue leading the Indian team in Tests and ODIs while stepping down as T20I captain in September last year. However, he was later sacked as ODI captain as the selectors wanted Rohit Sharma to lead the team in both white-ball formats. Kohli then had a public fallout with the BCCI after an explosive presser in December last year before quitting Test captaincy last week. Shastri said Kohli could have easily led the Indian team in Tests for at least another two years but some people might not have been able to digest the fact that he could have reached 50-60 wins as captain. Kohli is the most successful Indian captain in Test history with 40 wins from 68 matches as the skipper of the side. "Whether Virat could have continued to lead India in Tests. For sure, he could have led India for at least 2 years because next two years India would be playing at home and who is coming over - 9 and 10 jacks, going by the rankings. But he would have then made it to 50-60 wins under his captaincy and a lot of people will not be able to digest that fact," Shastri was quoted as saying by India Today. "Two years, he could have carried on but we should respect his decision. In any other country, this kind of record is incredible. You won against Australia, England and lost 1-2 to South Africa but still, there are debates if he should be the captain or not," he added. Also Read: 'There are people against him': Shoaib Akhtar on Virat Kohli's decision to quit India's Test captaincy Kohli didn't only sign off as India's most successful Test captain but also the fourth-best captain all-time in the longest format overall. Only greats like Graeme Smith (53), Ricky Ponting (48), and Steve Waugh (41) have more Test wins as captain than Kohli. The 33-year-old needed just 14 more wins as captain to become the most successful Test captain of all time in Test history. Kohli enjoyed a great relationship with Shastri during his tenure as the head coach of the Indian team and the duo inspired India to several memorable Test wins both at home and away from home. India dominated the top spot in the ICC Test rankings for years under the duo's leadership and were a force to reckon with in the longest format. Talking about Kohli's decision to quit Test captaincy, Shastri said the batting maestro might have felt the need to take some pressure off his back and focus only on his personal game. Shastri said it was an individual decision as Kohli must have felt he has already achieved what he wanted to as the captain of the Test team. Also Read: Harbhajan Singh issues warning to Virat Kohli: 'When you are captain you don't worry about selection' "Virat Kohli led India in 5-6 years in Tests and out of those, five years India was no. 1. No Indian captain has this kind of record and there are only a handful of captains world over with this kind of record. So when the most successful captain decides to step down as captain it's an individual's decision because his record of 40 wins is unprecedented," said Shastri. "So he only knows how much is he enjoying captaincy. When Sachin Tendulkar and MS Dhoni were not enjoying captaincy, they left. Similarly, when Virat thought that he had won 40 matches, six years he had been leading and now he wants to enjoy his cricket. He wants to focus on his batting and release a bit of pressure and it happens with a lot of individuals," he added.

Lot of people wouldn't have been able to digest Virat Kohli reaching 50-60 wins as Test captain: Ravi Shastri

It is safe to say that the current Indian cricket team is one of the best sides in the purest format of the game. They are ranked No. 1 in ICC Test rankings and have won some memorable series away from home in recent times, under Virat Kohli's leadership.

While Kohli's infectious energy, intensity and love for the Test format rubs off his teammates, one of the major reasons for India's rise in Tests -- since 2015 -- has been due to the pacers. The likes of Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah, Umesh Yadav, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, etc. have contributed immensely to India's rise in whites in the last five-six years.

Among the current pace battery, Shami wasn't having an ideal time in the longest format of the game when India last toured South Africa in early 2018. Little Master Sunil Gavaskar recalled how former head coach Ravi Shastri inspired Shami to get his act together and deliver during India's third and inconsequential Test versus the Proteas, in Johannesburg, after the visitors had already conceded the three-match series 2-0.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-keegan-petersen-takes-a-one-handed-stunner-to-dismiss-cheteshwar-pujara-on-day-3-in-cape-town-444377">WATCH: Keegan Petersen takes a one-handed stunner to dismiss Cheteshwar Pujara on Day 3 in Cape Town</a>

Talking on commentary during the ongoing third and final Test between India-SA, in Cape Town, Gavaskar said, "At the Wanderers, the last time around in 2018, was when they actually got stuck into him apparently because till then he hadn’t really delivered. They said to him that on this pitch if you’re not going to take wickets then… So the word is and I am not too sure that Ravi gave him a rocket."

"And then he came out and destroyed South Africa. Sometimes you know, you need to put an arm around a player, sometimes you’ve got to just get stuck into him."

Thus, Kohli &amp; Co. won the 2018 J'burg Test by 63 runs -- in defence of 241 -- courtesy Shami's five-fer in the final innings.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-sa-3rd-test-jasprit-bumrahs-5-for-42-headlines-indias-recovery-at-stumps-on-day-2-444232">India vs SA, 3rd Test: Jasprit Bumrah's 5 for 42 headlines India's recovery at stumps on Day 2</a>

In the ongoing Cape Town Test, Shami has contributed with two scalps in SA's first innings. On his performance so far, the legendary Indian cricketer Gavaskar said, "Somebody of his calibre, you can’t keep him out of the game for a long time. He had seen Yadav take a couple of wickets, he had seen Bumrah bowl splendidly and take 2 wickets. So he wanted to contribute. And he came in and did it at the right time. That Bavuma and Petersen partnership was a delight to watch but at the same time it was threatening India, so they needed a wicket at that stage and Shami delivered it."

After India were bundled out for 223 in the 2021/22 Test series finale, SA were dismissed for 210 whereas Kohli &amp; Co. are 130-4, leading by 143, at lunch on Day 3, on Thursday (January 13).

It is safe to say that the current Indian cricket team is one of the best sides in the purest format of the game. They are ranked No. 1 in ICC Test rankings and have won some memorable series away from home in recent times, under Virat Kohli's leadership.

It is safe to say that the current Indian cricket team is one of the best sides in the purest format of the game. They are ranked No. 1 in ICC Test rankings and have won some memorable series away from home in recent times, under Virat Kohli's leadership. While Kohli's infectious energy, intensity and love for the Test format rubs off his teammates, one of the major reasons for India's rise in Tests -- since 2015 -- has been due to the pacers. The likes of Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah, Umesh Yadav, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, etc. have contributed immensely to India's rise in whites in the last five-six years. Among the current pace battery, Shami wasn't having an ideal time in the longest format of the game when India last toured South Africa in early 2018. Little Master Sunil Gavaskar recalled how former head coach Ravi Shastri inspired Shami to get his act together and deliver during India's third and inconsequential Test versus the Proteas, in Johannesburg, after the visitors had already conceded the three-match series 2-0. ALSO READ | WATCH: Keegan Petersen takes a one-handed stunner to dismiss Cheteshwar Pujara on Day 3 in Cape Town Talking on commentary during the ongoing third and final Test between India-SA, in Cape Town, Gavaskar said, "At the Wanderers, the last time around in 2018, was when they actually got stuck into him apparently because till then he hadn’t really delivered. They said to him that on this pitch if you’re not going to take wickets then… So the word is and I am not too sure that Ravi gave him a rocket." "And then he came out and destroyed South Africa. Sometimes you know, you need to put an arm around a player, sometimes you’ve got to just get stuck into him." Thus, Kohli & Co. won the 2018 J'burg Test by 63 runs -- in defence of 241 -- courtesy Shami's five-fer in the final innings. ALSO READ | India vs SA, 3rd Test: Jasprit Bumrah's 5 for 42 headlines India's recovery at stumps on Day 2 In the ongoing Cape Town Test, Shami has contributed with two scalps in SA's first innings. On his performance so far, the legendary Indian cricketer Gavaskar said, "Somebody of his calibre, you can’t keep him out of the game for a long time. He had seen Yadav take a couple of wickets, he had seen Bumrah bowl splendidly and take 2 wickets. So he wanted to contribute. And he came in and did it at the right time. That Bavuma and Petersen partnership was a delight to watch but at the same time it was threatening India, so they needed a wicket at that stage and Shami delivered it." After India were bundled out for 223 in the 2021/22 Test series finale, SA were dismissed for 210 whereas Kohli & Co. are 130-4, leading by 143, at lunch on Day 3, on Thursday (January 13).

Ind vs SA: Gavaskar shares how Ravi Shastri inspired speedster Md Shami's revival in Test cricket in 2018

Team India ended 2021 on a glorious note, winning their first-ever Test at Centurion. While the year saw India's dominance in Test cricket, they played only a handful of ODIs but faltered in the shortest format of the game. The year had two ICC tournaments, in the form of WTC final and T20 World Cup, but India failed to win any major title. While their overall run in Tests remained impressive, the Men in Blue fell flat in the T20 WC.&nbsp;

Talking about India's campaign in the 2021 T20 WC, the Virat Kohli-led Indian team lost their opening clash to Pakistan by ten wickets (losing their first-ever game versus the arch-rivals in a World Cup). In their next encounter, the one-time winners India were listless versus Kane Williamson's New Zealand as they lost by 8 wickets to edge closer to elimination. While Kohli &amp; Co. bounced back and won three games in a row, it was too late by then as Pakistan and New Zealand marched to the semi-finals from India's group, i.e. Pool B. Recently, Ravi Shastri opined on India's struggles in the T20 WC, post which his tenure as the head coach came to an end.&nbsp;

"Pakistan played well on that day, and against New Zealand, we were timid. We were very timid. It showed in the game. We were tentative instead of going for the jugular. You never mind losing as long as you're throwing punches. But if you're timid and tentative then it hurts more. And in a tournament like this if you lose too early then you're in trouble," Shastri said on the Bold &amp; Brave The Ravi Shastri Way' show on Star Sports.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/packed-home-season-asia-cup-t20-wc-a-glance-at-kohli-rohit-starrer-indias-cricketing-calendar-441557">Packed home season, Asia Cup, T20 WC: A glance at Kohli, Rohit-starrer India's cricketing calendar</a>

Shastri further called for the tournament's format to be like the one witnessed in the 2019 ODI World Cup, which was a round-robin stage with each team playing the other once before the knockouts. The former Indian all-rounder also feels that the playoffs scenario should also be implemented in World Cups. In this regard, he said, "It's not like the format in 2019, where you can play every opposition. I think that is the way to go forward. That format is the best, and then have the Playoffs ideally, if you want to decide the World Cup," explained Shastri."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kl-rahul-named-captain-for-south-africa-odis-as-rohit-sharma-ruled-out-due-to-hamstring-injury-441482">KL Rahul named captain for South Africa ODIs as Rohit Sharma ruled out due to hamstring injury</a>

Since the 2021 T20 WC campaign, a lot has changed in Indian cricket. Rohit Sharma succeeded Kohli as the T20I captain, after the latter resigned from the post with the end of the World Cup, and recently replaced him as the limited-overs captain as well. The year 2022 will see teams compete once again in the eighth edition of the T20 World Cup, which will be held in current champions Australia's backyard. The one-time winners Team India will aim to move past their past struggles and claim the mega title in 2022.&nbsp;

Team India ended 2021 on a glorious note, winning their first-ever Test at Centurion. While the year saw India's dominance in Test cricket, they played only a handful of ODIs but faltered in the shortest format of the game.

Team India ended 2021 on a glorious note, winning their first-ever Test at Centurion. While the year saw India's dominance in Test cricket, they played only a handful of ODIs but faltered in the shortest format of the game. The year had two ICC tournaments, in the form of WTC final and T20 World Cup, but India failed to win any major title. While their overall run in Tests remained impressive, the Men in Blue fell flat in the T20 WC. Talking about India's campaign in the 2021 T20 WC, the Virat Kohli-led Indian team lost their opening clash to Pakistan by ten wickets (losing their first-ever game versus the arch-rivals in a World Cup). In their next encounter, the one-time winners India were listless versus Kane Williamson's New Zealand as they lost by 8 wickets to edge closer to elimination. While Kohli & Co. bounced back and won three games in a row, it was too late by then as Pakistan and New Zealand marched to the semi-finals from India's group, i.e. Pool B. Recently, Ravi Shastri opined on India's struggles in the T20 WC, post which his tenure as the head coach came to an end. "Pakistan played well on that day, and against New Zealand, we were timid. We were very timid. It showed in the game. We were tentative instead of going for the jugular. You never mind losing as long as you're throwing punches. But if you're timid and tentative then it hurts more. And in a tournament like this if you lose too early then you're in trouble," Shastri said on the Bold & Brave The Ravi Shastri Way' show on Star Sports. ALSO READ | Packed home season, Asia Cup, T20 WC: A glance at Kohli, Rohit-starrer India's cricketing calendar Shastri further called for the tournament's format to be like the one witnessed in the 2019 ODI World Cup, which was a round-robin stage with each team playing the other once before the knockouts. The former Indian all-rounder also feels that the playoffs scenario should also be implemented in World Cups. In this regard, he said, "It's not like the format in 2019, where you can play every opposition. I think that is the way to go forward. That format is the best, and then have the Playoffs ideally, if you want to decide the World Cup," explained Shastri." ALSO READ | KL Rahul named captain for South Africa ODIs as Rohit Sharma ruled out due to hamstring injury Since the 2021 T20 WC campaign, a lot has changed in Indian cricket. Rohit Sharma succeeded Kohli as the T20I captain, after the latter resigned from the post with the end of the World Cup, and recently replaced him as the limited-overs captain as well. The year 2022 will see teams compete once again in the eighth edition of the T20 World Cup, which will be held in current champions Australia's backyard. The one-time winners Team India will aim to move past their past struggles and claim the mega title in 2022.

We were timid, it showed in our game: Ravi Shastri decodes Team India's 2021 T20 World Cup debacle

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri believes the captain and the head coach of the side should have a say in the team selection. Shastri&nbsp;served as the head coach of the Indian cricket team for four years from 2017 to 2021. He along with captain Virat Kohli took the team to greater hieghts and made India a force to reckon with across formats.

Shastri, who has previously stated that he has had no say in a lot of selection matters during his coaching stint with the Indian team, has stressed the importance of the coach and captain having a say in the selection. Shastri feels it is extremely important for that to happen going forward.

"I think it is extremely important for the coach and the captain to have a say in the team selection, officially going forward. It is very important especially if the coach is experienced enough. I was, Rahul (Dravid is) and the captain should also have a say,” Ravi Shastri said on&nbsp;Star Sports.

In one of his recent interviews, Shastri had opened up on India's poor selection calls in the build-up to the 2019 ODI World Cup. Shastri had revealed he would have liked to have Ambati Rayudu or Shreyas Iyer in the squad instead of having as many as three wicket-keepers.

"I wasn't okay with three wicketkeepers being picked for the World Cup. Either Ambati (Rayudu) or Shreyas (Iyer) could've come in. What was the logic in having MS Dhoni, Rishabh (Pant) and Dinesh (Karthik) all together? But I never interfered with the selectors' work, except when I was asked for feedback or as part of a general discussion," Shastri had told the Times of India.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-ends-2021-without-a-century-as-indian-captain-departs-on-18-in-centurion-test-vs-south-africa-440945">Kohli ends 2021 without a century as Indian captain departs on 18 in Centurion Test vs South Africa</a>

Rayudu was India's designated number 4 batsman in the build-up to the 2019 ODI World Cup. However, he was snubbed from the squad at the last moment with all-rounder Vijay Shankar making the cut. India had&nbsp;Dhoni and Karthik already in the squad but brought in another wicket-keeper in Rishabh Pant to replace injured opener Shikhar Dhawan.

India dominated the proceedings in the group stages at the 2019 ODI World Cup before losing against New Zealand in the semi-final. Shastri failed to help India win a major ICC trophy during his tenure as the head coach of the team but inspired them to several memorable wins at home and overseas.

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri believes the captain and the head coach of the side should have a say in the team selection. Shastri served as the head coach of the Indian cricket team for four years from 2017 to 2021.

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri believes the captain and the head coach of the side should have a say in the team selection. Shastri served as the head coach of the Indian cricket team for four years from 2017 to 2021. He along with captain Virat Kohli took the team to greater hieghts and made India a force to reckon with across formats. Shastri, who has previously stated that he has had no say in a lot of selection matters during his coaching stint with the Indian team, has stressed the importance of the coach and captain having a say in the selection. Shastri feels it is extremely important for that to happen going forward. "I think it is extremely important for the coach and the captain to have a say in the team selection, officially going forward. It is very important especially if the coach is experienced enough. I was, Rahul (Dravid is) and the captain should also have a say,” Ravi Shastri said on Star Sports. In one of his recent interviews, Shastri had opened up on India's poor selection calls in the build-up to the 2019 ODI World Cup. Shastri had revealed he would have liked to have Ambati Rayudu or Shreyas Iyer in the squad instead of having as many as three wicket-keepers. "I wasn't okay with three wicketkeepers being picked for the World Cup. Either Ambati (Rayudu) or Shreyas (Iyer) could've come in. What was the logic in having MS Dhoni, Rishabh (Pant) and Dinesh (Karthik) all together? But I never interfered with the selectors' work, except when I was asked for feedback or as part of a general discussion," Shastri had told the Times of India. Also Read: Kohli ends 2021 without a century as Indian captain departs on 18 in Centurion Test vs South Africa Rayudu was India's designated number 4 batsman in the build-up to the 2019 ODI World Cup. However, he was snubbed from the squad at the last moment with all-rounder Vijay Shankar making the cut. India had Dhoni and Karthik already in the squad but brought in another wicket-keeper in Rishabh Pant to replace injured opener Shikhar Dhawan. India dominated the proceedings in the group stages at the 2019 ODI World Cup before losing against New Zealand in the semi-final. Shastri failed to help India win a major ICC trophy during his tenure as the head coach of the team but inspired them to several memorable wins at home and overseas.

Extremely important for captain and coach to have a say in team selection going forward: Ravi Shastri

Ravi Shastri's tenure as Indian team's head coach came to an end with the conclusion of the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. For the unversed, Shastri served as a team director from mid 2014 to early 2016. He was touted to become the head coach back then itself but the position went to Anil Kumble. After a year, Shastri got the top post as his tenure officially commenced from mid-2017.

Under Shastri, India achieved sizeable success across all forms of the game. The former Indian all-rounder guided India to success in Sri Lanka, West Indies, two Test series wins in a row in Australia, helped the team take an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in the UK early this year, led them to the WTC finals and 2019 ODI World Cup semi-finals. In addition, he guided the side to ODI series wins in Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and T20I bilateral series triumphs in SENA countries.

At home, India remained a dominant force under Shastri. However, he couldn't guide the side to an ICC title during his four-year-stint as his tenure came to a disappointing end with India's disastrous run in the T20 WC. Recalling Shastri's near-flawless stint as head coach, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Sunil Gavaskar mentioned the biggest highlight of his ex-teammate's coaching career.

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Gavaskar recalled Shastri's famous words after the defeat in Adelaide to&nbsp;Star Sports&nbsp;and said, "It obviously has got to be the way India bounced back earlier this year after being dismissed for 36 (in Adelaide Pink Ball Test). Because when something like that happens, the team tends to lose belief in itself, there is a sense of disappointment and there is a sense of giving up.

"And that is where Shastri played a huge role because from what I've read, is that he said that 'you wear this 36 like a badge'. And then Ajinkya Rahane, the way he led the side in the three Tests, and of course everyone stepped up. We played almost like an A team, not even the regular team. But every player who played in that, every replaced player came in and did well. And that is again tells you the kind of influence and input that Ravi Shastri had on the younger players and the fringe players who are waiting for their opportunities," added the Little Master.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/surprised-myself-with-how-calm-i-have-been-kl-rahul-reacts-to-his-truly-special-centurion-ton-vs-sa-440419">Surprised myself with how calm I have been: KL Rahul reacts to his 'truly special' Centurion ton vs SA</a>

Under Shastri, India were down and out in the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy after the 8-wicket drubbing versus Australia in the series opener at Adelaide Oval, Adelaide. Nonetheless, the Kohli-less Indian side showed great character and fought fire with fire throughout the series to stage a comeback for the ages and eventually win&nbsp;2-1.&nbsp;

Now, Shastri has been succeeded by Rahul Dravid as India's head coach. Dravid-led Indian team is currently involved in the first Test, of the three-match series, versus South Africa in the African nation.

Ravi Shastri's tenure as Indian team's head coach came to an end with the conclusion of the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. For the unversed, Shastri served as a team director from mid 2014 to early 2016.

Ravi Shastri's tenure as Indian team's head coach came to an end with the conclusion of the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. For the unversed, Shastri served as a team director from mid 2014 to early 2016. He was touted to become the head coach back then itself but the position went to Anil Kumble. After a year, Shastri got the top post as his tenure officially commenced from mid-2017. Under Shastri, India achieved sizeable success across all forms of the game. The former Indian all-rounder guided India to success in Sri Lanka, West Indies, two Test series wins in a row in Australia, helped the team take an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in the UK early this year, led them to the WTC finals and 2019 ODI World Cup semi-finals. In addition, he guided the side to ODI series wins in Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and T20I bilateral series triumphs in SENA countries. At home, India remained a dominant force under Shastri. However, he couldn't guide the side to an ICC title during his four-year-stint as his tenure came to a disappointing end with India's disastrous run in the T20 WC. Recalling Shastri's near-flawless stint as head coach, former Indian opener-turned-commentator Sunil Gavaskar mentioned the biggest highlight of his ex-teammate's coaching career. ALSO READ | He used to get upset when his name was not in the XI: Ashish Nehra heaps praise on young India pacer Gavaskar recalled Shastri's famous words after the defeat in Adelaide to Star Sports and said, "It obviously has got to be the way India bounced back earlier this year after being dismissed for 36 (in Adelaide Pink Ball Test). Because when something like that happens, the team tends to lose belief in itself, there is a sense of disappointment and there is a sense of giving up. "And that is where Shastri played a huge role because from what I've read, is that he said that 'you wear this 36 like a badge'. And then Ajinkya Rahane, the way he led the side in the three Tests, and of course everyone stepped up. We played almost like an A team, not even the regular team. But every player who played in that, every replaced player came in and did well. And that is again tells you the kind of influence and input that Ravi Shastri had on the younger players and the fringe players who are waiting for their opportunities," added the Little Master. ALSO READ | Surprised myself with how calm I have been: KL Rahul reacts to his 'truly special' Centurion ton vs SA Under Shastri, India were down and out in the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy after the 8-wicket drubbing versus Australia in the series opener at Adelaide Oval, Adelaide. Nonetheless, the Kohli-less Indian side showed great character and fought fire with fire throughout the series to stage a comeback for the ages and eventually win 2-1. Now, Shastri has been succeeded by Rahul Dravid as India's head coach. Dravid-led Indian team is currently involved in the first Test, of the three-match series, versus South Africa in the African nation.

Gavaskar recalls Shastri's journey as coach, mentions biggest highlight of his 4-year stint with Team India

MS Dhoni remains a big name in world cricket. He announced his international retirement on August 15, 2020, being one of the best limited-overs players for Team India (with staggering success in ODIs, decent contributions in T20Is and IPL) whereas he was also a force to reckon with in Tests.&nbsp;

Dhoni amassed 4,876 runs in the purest format --&nbsp;the most by an Indian keeper and third-most overall -- and accounted for 294 dismissals behind the stumps in 90 Tests. He played some memorable knocks in England, Pakistan, New Zealand and at home before shockingly retiring from the format in late 2014, during India's tour of Australia.&nbsp;

After the third and penultimate Test of the 2014/15 Border-Gavaskar Trophy ended in a draw, at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Dhoni called it quits from the Test format in a press conference; shocking many in the cricketing fraternity. Recalling how Dhoni's retirement announced shocked Team India players, the then team director and former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri recently opened up on the whole episode.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/blessing-in-disguise-ravi-shastri-opens-up-on-bccis-decision-to-replace-virat-kohli-as-indias-odi-captain-440298">'Blessing in disguise': Ravi Shastri opens up on BCCI's decision to replace Virat Kohli as India's ODI captain</a>

Reliving Dhoni's&nbsp;shocking announcement, former India head coach Shastri shared the dressing room's reaction. Speaking to Star Sports, Shastri, who was the team's director back then, has revealed, "I knew that the moment MS Dhoni finishes, Virat Kohli is the guy to lead the side. He (MS Dhoni) knew who was the next leader in line."

"Well, it came as a surprise. He came to me and said 'I want to say something to the boys'. I said 'sure'. I thought he was going to say something about the draw. He comes out. I just saw the faces around the dressing room. Most of the boys were in a state of shock when MS made the announcement. But that's MS for you," Shastri added.

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Dhoni went onto lead the limited-overs side till 2016 end and gave up captaincy altogether in early 2017. From thereon, he played as a regular wicketkeeper-batsman in ODIs and T20Is before featuring in his last international match during the 2019 ODI World Cup semi-final between India and New Zealand. He retired from the highest level in mid-August last year.

Dhoni remains an active player in IPL and will lead current champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2022.

MS Dhoni remains a big name in world cricket. He announced his international retirement on August 15, 2020, being one of the best limited-overs players for Team India (with staggering success in ODIs, decent contributions in T20Is and IPL) whereas he was also a force to reckon with in Tests.

MS Dhoni remains a big name in world cricket. He announced his international retirement on August 15, 2020, being one of the best limited-overs players for Team India (with staggering success in ODIs, decent contributions in T20Is and IPL) whereas he was also a force to reckon with in Tests. Dhoni amassed 4,876 runs in the purest format -- the most by an Indian keeper and third-most overall -- and accounted for 294 dismissals behind the stumps in 90 Tests. He played some memorable knocks in England, Pakistan, New Zealand and at home before shockingly retiring from the format in late 2014, during India's tour of Australia. After the third and penultimate Test of the 2014/15 Border-Gavaskar Trophy ended in a draw, at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Dhoni called it quits from the Test format in a press conference; shocking many in the cricketing fraternity. Recalling how Dhoni's retirement announced shocked Team India players, the then team director and former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri recently opened up on the whole episode. ALSO READ | 'Blessing in disguise': Ravi Shastri opens up on BCCI's decision to replace Virat Kohli as India's ODI captain Reliving Dhoni's shocking announcement, former India head coach Shastri shared the dressing room's reaction. Speaking to Star Sports, Shastri, who was the team's director back then, has revealed, "I knew that the moment MS Dhoni finishes, Virat Kohli is the guy to lead the side. He (MS Dhoni) knew who was the next leader in line." "Well, it came as a surprise. He came to me and said 'I want to say something to the boys'. I said 'sure'. I thought he was going to say something about the draw. He comes out. I just saw the faces around the dressing room. Most of the boys were in a state of shock when MS made the announcement. But that's MS for you," Shastri added. ALSO READ | How MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings scripted a fairytale comeback in IPL 2021 Dhoni went onto lead the limited-overs side till 2016 end and gave up captaincy altogether in early 2017. From thereon, he played as a regular wicketkeeper-batsman in ODIs and T20Is before featuring in his last international match during the 2019 ODI World Cup semi-final between India and New Zealand. He retired from the highest level in mid-August last year. Dhoni remains an active player in IPL and will lead current champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2022.

I want to say something to the boys: Shastri recalls Dhoni's Test retirement and how it shocked Team India

BCCI's decision to remove Virat Kohli and replace him with Rohit Sharma as team India's ODI captain stirred one of the biggest controversies in Indian cricket in recent times. While the decision drew mixed reactions, the manner in which it was announced left many irked.&nbsp;

To make matters worse for the Indian cricket board, Kohli came out in open and denied BCCI president Sourav Ganguly's claims that he had been requested not to leave the T20I captaincy earlier this year. Ganguly had said the selectors wanted one white-ball captain and he had personally requested Kohli to not leave T20I captaincy. However, Kohli refuted his claims in an explosive presser ahead of the South Africa tour.

Kohli also revealed the board or the selectors had made no prior communication before taking the decision, and that he got to know about his sacking only ninety minutes before it was made official. The Indian Test skipper's comments added fuel to the fire as BCCI was once again embroiled in a huge row.

Former head coach Ravi Shastri has now given his take on the matter and said it could prove to be a blessing in disguise for Kohli and Rohit as leading across all three formats in the current bio-bubble environment can take a toll on the player's performance. Kohli himself has been struggling with his consistency for a while now and no captaincy burden might help him bounce back.

"It's the right way to go. This could be a blessing in disguise for Virat and Rohit. For one guy to handle all 3 is not easy at all in this time of living in and out of bio-bubbles because of Covid," former India head coach Shastri said on Star Sports.

"Virat can focus on red-ball cricket and lead for as long as he wants to lead in Tests. It will allow him to sit back and think on his game because he's got a good 5-6 years left in him," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/r-ashwin-took-ravi-shastris-comments-on-kuldeep-yadav-in-a-wrong-way-says-former-india-selector-440105">R Ashwin took Ravi Shastri's comments on Kuldeep Yadav in a wrong way, says former India selector</a>

Shastri served as India's head coach for over three years from 2017 to 2021 and had closely worked with skipper Kohli in making the team a force to reckon with across formats. While India failed to win a major ICC trophy under Shastri, the team registered some memorable series wins both at home and away from home.

India also won the Asia Cup in 2018, and made it to semi-final and final of the 2019 ODI World Cup and the 2021 World Test Championship respectively.

BCCI's decision to remove Virat Kohli and replace him with Rohit Sharma as team India's ODI captain stirred one of the biggest controversies in Indian cricket in recent times.

BCCI's decision to remove Virat Kohli and replace him with Rohit Sharma as team India's ODI captain stirred one of the biggest controversies in Indian cricket in recent times. While the decision drew mixed reactions, the manner in which it was announced left many irked. To make matters worse for the Indian cricket board, Kohli came out in open and denied BCCI president Sourav Ganguly's claims that he had been requested not to leave the T20I captaincy earlier this year. Ganguly had said the selectors wanted one white-ball captain and he had personally requested Kohli to not leave T20I captaincy. However, Kohli refuted his claims in an explosive presser ahead of the South Africa tour. Kohli also revealed the board or the selectors had made no prior communication before taking the decision, and that he got to know about his sacking only ninety minutes before it was made official. The Indian Test skipper's comments added fuel to the fire as BCCI was once again embroiled in a huge row. Former head coach Ravi Shastri has now given his take on the matter and said it could prove to be a blessing in disguise for Kohli and Rohit as leading across all three formats in the current bio-bubble environment can take a toll on the player's performance. Kohli himself has been struggling with his consistency for a while now and no captaincy burden might help him bounce back. "It's the right way to go. This could be a blessing in disguise for Virat and Rohit. For one guy to handle all 3 is not easy at all in this time of living in and out of bio-bubbles because of Covid," former India head coach Shastri said on Star Sports. "Virat can focus on red-ball cricket and lead for as long as he wants to lead in Tests. It will allow him to sit back and think on his game because he's got a good 5-6 years left in him," he added. Also Read: R Ashwin took Ravi Shastri's comments on Kuldeep Yadav in a wrong way, says former India selector Shastri served as India's head coach for over three years from 2017 to 2021 and had closely worked with skipper Kohli in making the team a force to reckon with across formats. While India failed to win a major ICC trophy under Shastri, the team registered some memorable series wins both at home and away from home. India also won the Asia Cup in 2018, and made it to semi-final and final of the 2019 ODI World Cup and the 2021 World Test Championship respectively.

'Blessing in disguise': Ravi Shastri opens up on BCCI's decision to replace Virat Kohli as India's ODI captain

Indian spinner R Ashwin had recently recalled former India head coach Ravi Shastri's comments on Kuldeep Yadav during the team's tour of Australia in 2018-19 and revealed he was 'crushed'. Shastri had back then labeled Kuldeep as India's no.1 spinner overseas after he had bagged a five-wicket haul in the Sydney Test against the Aussies. Ashwin was also part of the Indian squad for the Test series and was pipped by Kuldeep in the playing XI before Shastri's comments.

Opening up on the episode Down Under, Ashwin revealed he felt 'crushed' and didn't feel supported. The off-spinner said he wanted to enjoy his teammate's success in the game but Shastri's comments made him feel like he didn't 'belong' in the team's celebration after the game.&nbsp;

"I hold Ravi bhai in high esteem. We all do. And I understand we all can say things and then retract them. In that moment, though, I felt crushed. Absolutely crushed," Ashwin had told ESPNCricinfo. Reacting to his comments, Shastri said it was good that Ashwin felt that way as it helped him bounce back stronger while adding that his job as the head coach of the Indian team was not to butter everyone's toast.

Former Indian selector Sarandeep Singh, who was part of the selection panel during India's tour of Australia in 2018-19, said Ashwin took Shastri's comments on the tour in a wrong way. Singh said Shastri was right in what he said.

"Ashwin took the comment in a wrong way. I was also there on the tour with Team India about which Shastri is talking. He meant to say that Kuldeep is a better bowler for us on overseas tour because his bowling style is different and Ashwin took this in another way and yes Shastri is right, his job is not to butter everyone toast," the former selector told ANI.

"Ashwin is a great bowler who has produced good bowling style in the African conditions. Also, he can be a game-changer for us. I don't think this will be his last tour as he has got a lot to perform," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/r-ashwin-recalls-battle-with-pain-in-sydney-test-i-was-tearing-up-my-daughter-had-to-pull-up-my-shorts-440059">R Ashwin recalls battle with pain in Sydney Test: I was tearing up, my daughter had to pull up my shorts</a>

While Kuldeep is no more in the reckoning for a spot in the Indian Test side at present, Ashwin continues to be a vital cog of the team in the longest format. Ashwin has been a regular in Tests for India and has been delivering consistently. He is currently in action for the team in the first Test of the ongoing three-match series&nbsp;against South Africa in Centurion.

Indian spinner R Ashwin had recently recalled former India head coach Ravi Shastri's comments on Kuldeep Yadav during the team's tour of Australia in 2018-19 and revealed he was 'crushed'.

Indian spinner R Ashwin had recently recalled former India head coach Ravi Shastri's comments on Kuldeep Yadav during the team's tour of Australia in 2018-19 and revealed he was 'crushed'. Shastri had back then labeled Kuldeep as India's no.1 spinner overseas after he had bagged a five-wicket haul in the Sydney Test against the Aussies. Ashwin was also part of the Indian squad for the Test series and was pipped by Kuldeep in the playing XI before Shastri's comments. Opening up on the episode Down Under, Ashwin revealed he felt 'crushed' and didn't feel supported. The off-spinner said he wanted to enjoy his teammate's success in the game but Shastri's comments made him feel like he didn't 'belong' in the team's celebration after the game. "I hold Ravi bhai in high esteem. We all do. And I understand we all can say things and then retract them. In that moment, though, I felt crushed. Absolutely crushed," Ashwin had told ESPNCricinfo. Reacting to his comments, Shastri said it was good that Ashwin felt that way as it helped him bounce back stronger while adding that his job as the head coach of the Indian team was not to butter everyone's toast. Former Indian selector Sarandeep Singh, who was part of the selection panel during India's tour of Australia in 2018-19, said Ashwin took Shastri's comments on the tour in a wrong way. Singh said Shastri was right in what he said. "Ashwin took the comment in a wrong way. I was also there on the tour with Team India about which Shastri is talking. He meant to say that Kuldeep is a better bowler for us on overseas tour because his bowling style is different and Ashwin took this in another way and yes Shastri is right, his job is not to butter everyone toast," the former selector told ANI. "Ashwin is a great bowler who has produced good bowling style in the African conditions. Also, he can be a game-changer for us. I don't think this will be his last tour as he has got a lot to perform," he added. Also Read: R Ashwin recalls battle with pain in Sydney Test: I was tearing up, my daughter had to pull up my shorts While Kuldeep is no more in the reckoning for a spot in the Indian Test side at present, Ashwin continues to be a vital cog of the team in the longest format. Ashwin has been a regular in Tests for India and has been delivering consistently. He is currently in action for the team in the first Test of the ongoing three-match series against South Africa in Centurion.

R Ashwin took Ravi Shastri's comments on Kuldeep Yadav in a wrong way, says former India selector

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has named a couple of players who he feels are string contenders to lead the Indian cricket team in the future. Rohit Sharma recently took over from Virat Kohli as ODI and T20I captain of the Indian team after the T20 World Cup debacle where the Men in Blue had failed to qualify for the semi-finals.

Shastri was also replaced by Rahul Dravid as the head coach of the team as his contract expired post the T20 World Cup. The former head coach feels KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer are two players who are contenders to be an Indian captain in the future. He revealed the names while speaking about Dravid replacing him as the head coach.

"Rahul Dravid knows his job. All I want to say to him is enjoy. KL Rahul is there, Shreyas Iyer has good leading qualities in the future especially in white-ball cricket," Shastri told Indian Express.

Rahul is already part of India's leadership group and has been appointed the team's full-time vice-captain in white-ball cricket with Rohit leading the team. He also was named the stand-in vice-captain of the Test team for the upcoming Test series against South Africa after an injury to Rohit, who was to be Virat Kohli's deputy for the series.

Rahul has also led Punjab Kings for two seasons in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and has been a regular across formats for Team India over the last few years. He is likely to lead whichever team he decides to join ahead of the IPL mega auction having left Punjab Kings.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sourav-ganguly-held-me-when-i-was-no-one-i-was-someone-when-dhoni-became-captain-harbhajan-singh-439726">Ganguly held me when I was 'no one', I was 'someone' when Dhoni became captain: Harbhajan&nbsp;</a>

Meanwhile, Iyer has also been fantastic as a captain in the IPL and has shown great leadership qualities with Delhi Capitals. He inspired Delhi to their maiden final in IPL 2020. However, Iyer is yet to take a leadership role in the Indian team.

Nonetheless, Shastri, who has observed him from close quarters during his coaching stint, believes Iyer has the potential to lead India in the future. Currently, Rohit is India's white-ball captain while Kohli continues to lead the side in Tests.

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Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has named a couple of players who he feels are string contenders to lead the Indian cricket team in the future. Rohit Sharma recently took over from Virat Kohli as ODI and T20I captain of the Indian team after the T20 World Cup debacle where the Men in Blue had failed to qualify for the semi-finals.

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has named a couple of players who he feels are string contenders to lead the Indian cricket team in the future. Rohit Sharma recently took over from Virat Kohli as ODI and T20I captain of the Indian team after the T20 World Cup debacle where the Men in Blue had failed to qualify for the semi-finals. Shastri was also replaced by Rahul Dravid as the head coach of the team as his contract expired post the T20 World Cup. The former head coach feels KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer are two players who are contenders to be an Indian captain in the future. He revealed the names while speaking about Dravid replacing him as the head coach. "Rahul Dravid knows his job. All I want to say to him is enjoy. KL Rahul is there, Shreyas Iyer has good leading qualities in the future especially in white-ball cricket," Shastri told Indian Express. Rahul is already part of India's leadership group and has been appointed the team's full-time vice-captain in white-ball cricket with Rohit leading the team. He also was named the stand-in vice-captain of the Test team for the upcoming Test series against South Africa after an injury to Rohit, who was to be Virat Kohli's deputy for the series. Rahul has also led Punjab Kings for two seasons in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and has been a regular across formats for Team India over the last few years. He is likely to lead whichever team he decides to join ahead of the IPL mega auction having left Punjab Kings. Also Read: Ganguly held me when I was 'no one', I was 'someone' when Dhoni became captain: Harbhajan Meanwhile, Iyer has also been fantastic as a captain in the IPL and has shown great leadership qualities with Delhi Capitals. He inspired Delhi to their maiden final in IPL 2020. However, Iyer is yet to take a leadership role in the Indian team. Nonetheless, Shastri, who has observed him from close quarters during his coaching stint, believes Iyer has the potential to lead India in the future. Currently, Rohit is India's white-ball captain while Kohli continues to lead the side in Tests.

Not Rishabh Pant! Former head coach Ravi Shastri names 2 players who can captain Team India in future

Team India enjoyed the services of MS Dhoni as mentor for the 2021 T20 World Cup in the UAE. The move was made by the BCCI so that Dhoni's presence would help the youngsters in an ICC event and guide the team to their first-ever ICC-trophy since 2013.

While India's campaign was disappointing, to say the least, Dhoni's presence as a mentor was much appreciated in the cricketing fraternity. Now, former Indian pacer Atul Wassan has dropped a bomb and explained why the ex-Indian captain was actually appointed as the mentor for the showpiece event, where Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue failed to make it to the semi-finals.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-has-been-an-impeccable-leader-ravi-shastri-praises-indian-test-captain-ahead-of-sa-series-439391">'Virat Kohli has been an impeccable leader' - Ravi Shastri praises Indian Test captain ahead of SA series</a>

According to Atul, MS Dhoni was brought in as the mentor of the national side to bring some balance into the way decisions were being made by the team management, led by Kohli and then head coach Ravi Shastri.

"I'll tell you. Dhoni was brought in just to keep some balance because everybody had a feeling that Virat and Ravi Shastri were totally handling, selecting, managing whoever they wanted to play,"&nbsp;Wasan said in a chat on CNN News 18.

"They were controlling Indian cricket. So, they (BCCI) thought somebody should come in with some kind of value who would just monitor that there is a balance. I think they messed up greatly in the World Cup,"&nbsp;the ex-India quick pointed out.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-vs-bcci-dont-know-why-there-was-any-statement-by-sourav-ganguly-says-sanjay-manjrekar-439302">Virat Kohli vs BCCI: Don't know why there was any statement by Sourav Ganguly, says Sanjay Manjrekar</a>

A lot has transpired in Indian cricket since early December, 2021. With Kohli being removed as the ODI captain and being succeeded by Rohit Sharma, there has been a huge outrage especially post Kohli's explosive presser before India's departure for South Africa. Thus, Kohli and the BCCI are now at loggerheads due to their contrasting statements on the turn of events with regard to the ODI captaincy saga.

Wassan also opined on the ODI captaincy change and said, "Here in India, once you have played a lot of cricket and you become a demi-god, the player expects to get some lineage, get some special treatment. This system needs to change.

"If you are not gelling well with the organisation and you have got a better option, players also have to stop feeling low or let down. Don't expect too much from the board because once you have a tap on the shoulder, you have got to take it as a man."

At present, Kohli-led Indian team is in South Africa for the three-match Test series in the African nation, which gets underway on December 26 in Centurion. It will be followed by the three ODIs, by when Rohit (who is ruled out of Tests due to injury) is expected to regain fitness and take charge of the team.

Team India enjoyed the services of MS Dhoni as mentor for the 2021 T20 World Cup in the UAE. The move was made by the BCCI so that Dhoni's presence would help the youngsters in an ICC event and guide the team to their first-ever ICC-trophy since 2013.

Team India enjoyed the services of MS Dhoni as mentor for the 2021 T20 World Cup in the UAE. The move was made by the BCCI so that Dhoni's presence would help the youngsters in an ICC event and guide the team to their first-ever ICC-trophy since 2013. While India's campaign was disappointing, to say the least, Dhoni's presence as a mentor was much appreciated in the cricketing fraternity. Now, former Indian pacer Atul Wassan has dropped a bomb and explained why the ex-Indian captain was actually appointed as the mentor for the showpiece event, where Virat Kohli-led Men in Blue failed to make it to the semi-finals. ALSO READ | 'Virat Kohli has been an impeccable leader' - Ravi Shastri praises Indian Test captain ahead of SA series According to Atul, MS Dhoni was brought in as the mentor of the national side to bring some balance into the way decisions were being made by the team management, led by Kohli and then head coach Ravi Shastri. "I'll tell you. Dhoni was brought in just to keep some balance because everybody had a feeling that Virat and Ravi Shastri were totally handling, selecting, managing whoever they wanted to play," Wasan said in a chat on CNN News 18. "They were controlling Indian cricket. So, they (BCCI) thought somebody should come in with some kind of value who would just monitor that there is a balance. I think they messed up greatly in the World Cup," the ex-India quick pointed out. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli vs BCCI: Don't know why there was any statement by Sourav Ganguly, says Sanjay Manjrekar A lot has transpired in Indian cricket since early December, 2021. With Kohli being removed as the ODI captain and being succeeded by Rohit Sharma, there has been a huge outrage especially post Kohli's explosive presser before India's departure for South Africa. Thus, Kohli and the BCCI are now at loggerheads due to their contrasting statements on the turn of events with regard to the ODI captaincy saga. Wassan also opined on the ODI captaincy change and said, "Here in India, once you have played a lot of cricket and you become a demi-god, the player expects to get some lineage, get some special treatment. This system needs to change. "If you are not gelling well with the organisation and you have got a better option, players also have to stop feeling low or let down. Don't expect too much from the board because once you have a tap on the shoulder, you have got to take it as a man." At present, Kohli-led Indian team is in South Africa for the three-match Test series in the African nation, which gets underway on December 26 in Centurion. It will be followed by the three ODIs, by when Rohit (who is ruled out of Tests due to injury) is expected to regain fitness and take charge of the team.

Kohli, Shastri were controlling Indian cricket: Ex-India pacer on Dhoni's appointment as mentor for T20 WC

The Indian men's cricket team has moved on from the Virat Kohli-Ravi Shastri era. After Shastri's tenure ended with the T20 World Cup, Rahul Dravid took over and is now serving as the head coach till the 2023 ODI World Cup. On the other hand, BCCI recently sacked Kohli as the ODI captain, appointing Rohit Sharma as the new limited-overs skipper.

Ahead of India's tour-opener versus South Africa in Centurion, on December 26, former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria has made a big claim on the partnership of Kohli-Dravid, who are the captain-coach in the Test format for the national side.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/harbhajan-singh-retires-draws-curtains-to-glorious-23-year-long-international-career-439548">Harbhajan Singh retires, draws curtains to glorious 23-year-long international career</a>

By now, all the cricket fans are well aware of the rusty relations between Kohli and the BCCI post the ODI captaincy switch. After being sacked as the ODI skipper, the 33-year-old Kohli contradicted from BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly's claims, who had earlier stated that he had advised the former to continue as the T20I captain. Kohli also revealed that he had no prior communication with the national selectors before his sacking. Hence, the Indian Test captain's relations with Ganguly has gone down. In 2017, he had a fallout with then head coach Anil Kumble as well. Hence, Kaneria feels his relations with Dravid might also not be good in the long run.

"It's been two years, Virat has not made any century, so he needs to focus on his game. Speaking against legends like Sourav Ganguly and anyone else is not going to help him," Kaneria told IANS in an interview.

He further asserted, "Virat had problems with Anil Kumble, now he has problems with Ganguly. Kumble and Ganguly have proved themselves; they are the real ambassadors of the game. Virat is speaking against Ganguly who has changed Indian cricket and then MS Dhoni took it forward. Now Virat's 90-minute jibe is really not needed at this time."

"He is struggling to make runs in Tests and T20s. And as a captain, he has not won any ICC trophy, so everything is going against him. And now this blame game, I don't think this is going to help him as well as Indian cricket," Kaneria further explained.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kohli-shastri-were-controlling-indian-cricket-ex-india-pacer-on-dhonis-appointment-as-mentor-for-t20-wc-439500">Kohli, Shastri were controlling Indian cricket: Ex-India pacer on Dhoni's appointment as mentor for T20 WC</a>

Kaneria added, "As far as Rohit Sharma is concerned, he's been an outstanding ambassador of the game; he has won five IPL trophies. His captaincy is impeccable; his camaraderie with Rahul Dravid is amazing. I don't think Virat Kohli's relation with Dravid will be good in the long run. Virat had a problem with Anil Kumble as well. Both Kumble and Dravid are coming from South India and they have big status in cricket. I played against both of them, and I know what kind of intellectuals they are."

It will be interesting to see how the relation&nbsp;between Kohli and Dravid will pan out going forward. At present, the Dravid-Kohli-led Indian team is gearing up for the three-match Test series opener versus Dean Elgar-led South Africa, in Centurion, on Sunday (December 26).

The Indian men's cricket team has moved on from the Virat Kohli-Ravi Shastri era. After Shastri's tenure ended with the T20 World Cup, Rahul Dravid took over and is now serving as the head coach till the 2023 ODI World Cup.

The Indian men's cricket team has moved on from the Virat Kohli-Ravi Shastri era. After Shastri's tenure ended with the T20 World Cup, Rahul Dravid took over and is now serving as the head coach till the 2023 ODI World Cup. On the other hand, BCCI recently sacked Kohli as the ODI captain, appointing Rohit Sharma as the new limited-overs skipper. Ahead of India's tour-opener versus South Africa in Centurion, on December 26, former Pakistan spinner Danish Kaneria has made a big claim on the partnership of Kohli-Dravid, who are the captain-coach in the Test format for the national side. ALSO READ | Harbhajan Singh retires, draws curtains to glorious 23-year-long international career By now, all the cricket fans are well aware of the rusty relations between Kohli and the BCCI post the ODI captaincy switch. After being sacked as the ODI skipper, the 33-year-old Kohli contradicted from BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly's claims, who had earlier stated that he had advised the former to continue as the T20I captain. Kohli also revealed that he had no prior communication with the national selectors before his sacking. Hence, the Indian Test captain's relations with Ganguly has gone down. In 2017, he had a fallout with then head coach Anil Kumble as well. Hence, Kaneria feels his relations with Dravid might also not be good in the long run. "It's been two years, Virat has not made any century, so he needs to focus on his game. Speaking against legends like Sourav Ganguly and anyone else is not going to help him," Kaneria told IANS in an interview. He further asserted, "Virat had problems with Anil Kumble, now he has problems with Ganguly. Kumble and Ganguly have proved themselves; they are the real ambassadors of the game. Virat is speaking against Ganguly who has changed Indian cricket and then MS Dhoni took it forward. Now Virat's 90-minute jibe is really not needed at this time." "He is struggling to make runs in Tests and T20s. And as a captain, he has not won any ICC trophy, so everything is going against him. And now this blame game, I don't think this is going to help him as well as Indian cricket," Kaneria further explained. ALSO READ | Kohli, Shastri were controlling Indian cricket: Ex-India pacer on Dhoni's appointment as mentor for T20 WC Kaneria added, "As far as Rohit Sharma is concerned, he's been an outstanding ambassador of the game; he has won five IPL trophies. His captaincy is impeccable; his camaraderie with Rahul Dravid is amazing. I don't think Virat Kohli's relation with Dravid will be good in the long run. Virat had a problem with Anil Kumble as well. Both Kumble and Dravid are coming from South India and they have big status in cricket. I played against both of them, and I know what kind of intellectuals they are." It will be interesting to see how the relation between Kohli and Dravid will pan out going forward. At present, the Dravid-Kohli-led Indian team is gearing up for the three-match Test series opener versus Dean Elgar-led South Africa, in Centurion, on Sunday (December 26).

Don't think Virat Kohli's relation with Rahul Dravid will be good in long run, predicts Danish Kaneria

Former Indian team head coach Ravi Shastri has reacted to the number of developments that have taken place in the senior men's cricket team post the end of his tenure. Post his exit, he has been succeeded by Rahul Dravid whereas Virat Kohli recently got removed as the ODI captain, with Rohit Sharma replacing him as the limited-overs skipper.

For the unversed, Rohit had already succeeded Kohli as the T20I captain post the World Cup in the UAE. In mid-September, the 33-year-old Kohli had revealed that the mega event in the UAE will be his last assignment as the T20I skipper. Thus, Shastri has opened up on Rohit taking over as the white-ball captain and the ODI captaincy row, created due to contrasting statements from Kohli and BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/my-job-isnt-to-butter-everyones-toast-ravi-shastri-recalls-his-praise-for-kuldeep-which-crushed-r-ashwin-439515">My job isn't to butter everyone’s toast: Ravi Shastri recalls his praise for Kuldeep which 'crushed' R Ashwin</a>

Shastri told the Indian Express, "Once Virat said he didn't want to lead T20s, it opened for Rohit. He should be the white-ball captain. Rohit Sharma is the T20 captain now. He should be the white-ball captain."

On Ganguly and the ODI captaincy saga, the former all-rounder opined, "I see no residue. Just events and you react to those events. That aside, we are cricketers. Both of us know the game. That does not mean we will agree on everything. Interacted with Ganguly many times. With good communication, the Indian team situation can be handled better."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kohli-shastri-were-controlling-indian-cricket-ex-india-pacer-on-dhonis-appointment-as-mentor-for-t20-wc-439500">Kohli, Shastri were controlling Indian cricket: Ex-India pacer on Dhoni's appointment as mentor for T20 WC</a>

At present, Kohli-led Indian Test team is in South Africa for the three-match series versus the Dean Elgar-led Proteas. After winning back-to-back Test series in Australia and gaining an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in the United Kingdom, early this year, India will look to win their maiden series in the African nation.&nbsp;

Former Indian team head coach Ravi Shastri has reacted to the number of developments that have taken place in the senior men's cricket team post the end of his tenure.

Former Indian team head coach Ravi Shastri has reacted to the number of developments that have taken place in the senior men's cricket team post the end of his tenure. Post his exit, he has been succeeded by Rahul Dravid whereas Virat Kohli recently got removed as the ODI captain, with Rohit Sharma replacing him as the limited-overs skipper. For the unversed, Rohit had already succeeded Kohli as the T20I captain post the World Cup in the UAE. In mid-September, the 33-year-old Kohli had revealed that the mega event in the UAE will be his last assignment as the T20I skipper. Thus, Shastri has opened up on Rohit taking over as the white-ball captain and the ODI captaincy row, created due to contrasting statements from Kohli and BCCI chief Sourav Ganguly. ALSO READ | My job isn't to butter everyone’s toast: Ravi Shastri recalls his praise for Kuldeep which 'crushed' R Ashwin Shastri told the Indian Express, "Once Virat said he didn't want to lead T20s, it opened for Rohit. He should be the white-ball captain. Rohit Sharma is the T20 captain now. He should be the white-ball captain." On Ganguly and the ODI captaincy saga, the former all-rounder opined, "I see no residue. Just events and you react to those events. That aside, we are cricketers. Both of us know the game. That does not mean we will agree on everything. Interacted with Ganguly many times. With good communication, the Indian team situation can be handled better." ALSO READ | Kohli, Shastri were controlling Indian cricket: Ex-India pacer on Dhoni's appointment as mentor for T20 WC At present, Kohli-led Indian Test team is in South Africa for the three-match series versus the Dean Elgar-led Proteas. After winning back-to-back Test series in Australia and gaining an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in the United Kingdom, early this year, India will look to win their maiden series in the African nation.

'Once Virat Kohli said....' - Shastri reacts to Rohit Sharma's appointment as India's limited-overs captain

India beat Australia in the four Tests during their 2018/19 tour Down Under to win their first-ever series in whites in Aussies' backyard. During the series, the likes of Cheteshwar Pujara, Mayank Agarwal, Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah led the charge for India's historic win whereas the likes of Ishant Sharma, Captain Virat Kohli, Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav also played their parts.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Back then, Ashwin accounted for six scalps in the series opener in Adelaide before injury ruled him out of action for the remainder of the Tests. Kuldeep featured in the last Test, in Sydney, and returned with a five-fer to earn words of praise from then head coach Ravi Shastri. At that time, Shastri labelled Kuldeep as India's best 'overseas spinner'.

Ashwin recalled Shastri's words, which 'absolutely crushed' him while he watched the proceedings from the sidelines due to injury concerns.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/difficult-to-maintain-former-indian-cricketers-react-to-r-ashwins-remark-on-ravi-shastri-438965">'Difficult to maintain....' - Former Indian cricketers react to R Ashwin's remark on Ravi Shastri</a>

Ashwin recently reacted to Shastri's remark and told in an interview with The&nbsp;Cricket Monthly, "I hold Ravi bhai in high esteem. We all do. In that moment, though, I felt crushed. Absolutely crushed. We all talk about how important it is to enjoy your team-mates' success. And I was happy for Kuldeep. I have not been able to get a five-for but he has a five-for in Australia. I know how big it is. Even when I have bowled well [at other times], I haven't ended up with a five-for. So I am genuinely happy for him. And it's an extremely happy occasion, to win in Australia."

"But if I have to come and partake in his happiness, and the success of the team, I must feel like I belong there. If I feel like I am being thrown under the bus, how am I supposed to get up and come for a party to enjoy the team's or team-mate's success? I went back to my room and then I spoke to my wife. And my children were there. So we were able to, you know, shrug it off, and I still made it to the party, because, end of the day, we had won a massive series," he added.

Now, Shastri has reacted to Ashwin's statements and told the Indian Express, "Ashwin did not play the Test in Sydney and Kuldeep bowled well. So it's fair I give Kuldeep a chance. If that hurt Ashwin, I am very happy. It made him do something different. My job is not to butter everyone’s toast. My job is to state facts without agenda."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/felt-crushed-r-ashwin-recalls-ravi-shastris-huge-praise-for-kuldeep-yadav-during-2018-19-australia-tour-438692">Felt crushed: R Ashwin recalls Ravi Shastri's huge praise for Kuldeep Yadav during 2018-19 Australia tour</a>

Ashwin, however, played a bigger role in India's second successive Test series win in Australia during the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under. He returned with 11 wickets in 3 Tests to end as India's second-highest wicket-taker in their historic 2-1 series triumph over Tim Paine &amp; Co. Injury, however, ruled him out of action for the series finale at The Gabba, Brisbane.&nbsp;

At present, Ashwin-starrer Team India is gearing up for the series opener of the three Tests versus South Africa, which gets underway on December 26 in Centurion.

India beat Australia in the four Tests during their 2018/19 tour Down Under to win their first-ever series in whites in Aussies' backyard. During the series, the likes of Cheteshwar Pujara, Mayank Agarwal, Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah led the charge for India's historic win whereas the likes of Ishant Sharma, Captain Virat Kohli, Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav also played their parts.

India beat Australia in the four Tests during their 2018/19 tour Down Under to win their first-ever series in whites in Aussies' backyard. During the series, the likes of Cheteshwar Pujara, Mayank Agarwal, Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah led the charge for India's historic win whereas the likes of Ishant Sharma, Captain Virat Kohli, Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav also played their parts. Back then, Ashwin accounted for six scalps in the series opener in Adelaide before injury ruled him out of action for the remainder of the Tests. Kuldeep featured in the last Test, in Sydney, and returned with a five-fer to earn words of praise from then head coach Ravi Shastri. At that time, Shastri labelled Kuldeep as India's best 'overseas spinner'. Ashwin recalled Shastri's words, which 'absolutely crushed' him while he watched the proceedings from the sidelines due to injury concerns. ALSO READ | 'Difficult to maintain....' - Former Indian cricketers react to R Ashwin's remark on Ravi Shastri Ashwin recently reacted to Shastri's remark and told in an interview with The Cricket Monthly, "I hold Ravi bhai in high esteem. We all do. In that moment, though, I felt crushed. Absolutely crushed. We all talk about how important it is to enjoy your team-mates' success. And I was happy for Kuldeep. I have not been able to get a five-for but he has a five-for in Australia. I know how big it is. Even when I have bowled well [at other times], I haven't ended up with a five-for. So I am genuinely happy for him. And it's an extremely happy occasion, to win in Australia." "But if I have to come and partake in his happiness, and the success of the team, I must feel like I belong there. If I feel like I am being thrown under the bus, how am I supposed to get up and come for a party to enjoy the team's or team-mate's success? I went back to my room and then I spoke to my wife. And my children were there. So we were able to, you know, shrug it off, and I still made it to the party, because, end of the day, we had won a massive series," he added. Now, Shastri has reacted to Ashwin's statements and told the Indian Express, "Ashwin did not play the Test in Sydney and Kuldeep bowled well. So it's fair I give Kuldeep a chance. If that hurt Ashwin, I am very happy. It made him do something different. My job is not to butter everyone’s toast. My job is to state facts without agenda." ALSO READ | Felt crushed: R Ashwin recalls Ravi Shastri's huge praise for Kuldeep Yadav during 2018-19 Australia tour Ashwin, however, played a bigger role in India's second successive Test series win in Australia during the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under. He returned with 11 wickets in 3 Tests to end as India's second-highest wicket-taker in their historic 2-1 series triumph over Tim Paine & Co. Injury, however, ruled him out of action for the series finale at The Gabba, Brisbane. At present, Ashwin-starrer Team India is gearing up for the series opener of the three Tests versus South Africa, which gets underway on December 26 in Centurion.

My job isn't to butter everyone’s toast: Ravi Shastri recalls his praise for Kuldeep which 'crushed' R Ashwin

India's former head coach Ravi Shastri has lavished huge praise on Test captain Virat Kohli ahead of the national side's three-match series opener versus South Africa, which gets underway on December 26 in Centurion. The No. 1 ranked side have been exceptional while being on the road under Ravi Shastri and will look to carry on in similar stead under Rahul Dravid's coaching.&nbsp;

During Shastri's tenure, Kohli-led India become a daunting line-up while playing away from home. Under the former Indian all-rounder, India won two series in a row in Australia and gained an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in the United Kingdom (held early this year) and demolished Sri Lanka and West Indies in their own backyard. Shastri has credited Kohli as a leader and has backed Team India to scale new heights in the African nation.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-sa-1st-test-pant-aims-to-break-mentor-dhonis-unique-record-in-series-opener-in-centurion-439363">India vs SA, 1st Test: Pant aims to break mentor Dhoni's unique record in series opener in Centurion</a>

Shastri while speaking in an interview to Star Sports told "There couldn't have been a better time for team India to prove their mettle. Virat has been an impeccable leader and has got a talented team to go along with it. South Africa remains an unconquered bastion."

"Remember, the Proteas are no pushovers in their own backyard, but we have got the firepower and the arsenal to match that. As always, Team India will always have my backing," Shastri mentioned.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-is-a-quality-indian-team-allan-donald-recalls-virat-kohlis-words-from-2018-ahead-of-centurion-test-439348">This is a quality Indian team: Allan Donald recalls Virat Kohli's words from 2018 ahead of Centurion Test</a>

India have a strong chance to win their first-ever Test series on South African soil with the Proteas not having superstar batters in their line-up whereas India's pace attack is one of the best at present. During their last Test series in SA in early 2018, Kohli &amp; Co. were competitive throughout the three Tests but lost 2-1. It will be interesting to see what the scoreline will be this time around.

The last two Tests will be played in Johannesburg&nbsp;and Cape Town before the action moves to the three ODIs, starting from mid-January 2022.

India's former head coach Ravi Shastri has lavished huge praise on Test captain Virat Kohli ahead of the national side's three-match series opener versus South Africa, which gets underway on December 26 in Centurion.

India's former head coach Ravi Shastri has lavished huge praise on Test captain Virat Kohli ahead of the national side's three-match series opener versus South Africa, which gets underway on December 26 in Centurion. The No. 1 ranked side have been exceptional while being on the road under Ravi Shastri and will look to carry on in similar stead under Rahul Dravid's coaching. During Shastri's tenure, Kohli-led India become a daunting line-up while playing away from home. Under the former Indian all-rounder, India won two series in a row in Australia and gained an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the incomplete five Tests in the United Kingdom (held early this year) and demolished Sri Lanka and West Indies in their own backyard. Shastri has credited Kohli as a leader and has backed Team India to scale new heights in the African nation. ALSO READ | India vs SA, 1st Test: Pant aims to break mentor Dhoni's unique record in series opener in Centurion Shastri while speaking in an interview to Star Sports told "There couldn't have been a better time for team India to prove their mettle. Virat has been an impeccable leader and has got a talented team to go along with it. South Africa remains an unconquered bastion." "Remember, the Proteas are no pushovers in their own backyard, but we have got the firepower and the arsenal to match that. As always, Team India will always have my backing," Shastri mentioned. ALSO READ | This is a quality Indian team: Allan Donald recalls Virat Kohli's words from 2018 ahead of Centurion Test India have a strong chance to win their first-ever Test series on South African soil with the Proteas not having superstar batters in their line-up whereas India's pace attack is one of the best at present. During their last Test series in SA in early 2018, Kohli & Co. were competitive throughout the three Tests but lost 2-1. It will be interesting to see what the scoreline will be this time around. The last two Tests will be played in Johannesburg and Cape Town before the action moves to the three ODIs, starting from mid-January 2022.

'Virat Kohli has been an impeccable leader' - Ravi Shastri praises Indian Test captain ahead of SA series

R Ashwin recently reacted to former Team India head coach Ravi Shastri's words of praise for Kuldeep Yadav during the 2018/19 Australia tour. Back then, Ashwin had played a key role in India's 31-run win over Tim Paine-led Aussies in the first Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, in Adelaide, with 6 scalps in the match. However, injury ruled him out of the remainder of the series as Kuldeep got a chance in the final Test, in Sydney.

Impressing one and all, Kuldeep achieved a five-fer in the drawn fourth and final Test; a feat not yet achieved by Ashwin in Australia. Thus, then head coach Ravi Shastri had labelled Kuldeep as India's No. 1 overseas spinner.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/felt-crushed-r-ashwin-recalls-ravi-shastris-huge-praise-for-kuldeep-yadav-during-2018-19-australia-tour-438692">Felt crushed: R Ashwin recalls Ravi Shastri's huge praise for Kuldeep Yadav during 2018-19 Australia tour</a>

To this, Ashwin recently reacted to Shastri's remark and told in an interview with The&nbsp;Cricket Monthly, "I hold Ravi bhai in high esteem. We all do. In that moment, though, I felt crushed. Absolutely crushed. We all talk about how important it is to enjoy your team-mates' success. And I was happy for Kuldeep. I have not been able to get a five-for but he has a five-for in Australia. I know how big it is. Even when I have bowled well [at other times], I haven't ended up with a five-for. So I am genuinely happy for him. And it's an extremely happy occasion, to win in Australia."

"But if I have to come and partake in his happiness, and the success of the team, I must feel like I belong there. If I feel like I am being thrown under the bus, how am I supposed to get up and come for a party to enjoy the team's or team-mate's success? I went back to my room and then I spoke to my wife. And my children were there. So we were able to, you know, shrug it off, and I still made it to the party, because, end of the day, we had won a massive series," he added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-contemplated-giving-up-the-sport-r-ashwin-admits-to-have-thought-of-retirement-between-2018-20-438664">I contemplated giving up the sport: R Ashwin admits to have thought of retirement between 2018-20</a>

Now, former Indian cricketers Saba Karim and Nikhil Chopra have reacted to Ashwin's remark. Speaking on his YouTube channel&nbsp;Khelneeti, Karim said,&nbsp;"Very difficult to maintain a healthy team environment when such things come out (Ashwin's statement on Shastri). Rahul Dravid's role will be very important. Captain shouldn't feel under pressure because of such developments."

On the other hand, Chopra stated, "Shastri labelled Kuldeep Yadav as the best overseas spinner. While at times you need to say these things to give confidence to a player, you need to ensure you don't disrespect other members of the team. Ashwin must be disappointed. You cannot have different treatments for different players."

At present, Ashwin is gearing up for India's upcoming three-match Test series versus South Africa, in the African nation, starting from December 26 in Centurion. The 35-year-old wily off-spinner, who warmed the bench during the England Tests in the United Kingdom, will be eager to contribute with both bat and ball and guide India to their first-ever Test series win in the rainbow nation.&nbsp;

R Ashwin recently reacted to former Team India head coach Ravi Shastri's words of praise for Kuldeep Yadav during the 2018/19 Australia tour. Back then, Ashwin had played a key role in India's 31-run win over Tim Paine-led Aussies in the first Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, in Adelaide, with 6 scalps in the match.

R Ashwin recently reacted to former Team India head coach Ravi Shastri's words of praise for Kuldeep Yadav during the 2018/19 Australia tour. Back then, Ashwin had played a key role in India's 31-run win over Tim Paine-led Aussies in the first Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, in Adelaide, with 6 scalps in the match. However, injury ruled him out of the remainder of the series as Kuldeep got a chance in the final Test, in Sydney. Impressing one and all, Kuldeep achieved a five-fer in the drawn fourth and final Test; a feat not yet achieved by Ashwin in Australia. Thus, then head coach Ravi Shastri had labelled Kuldeep as India's No. 1 overseas spinner. ALSO READ | Felt crushed: R Ashwin recalls Ravi Shastri's huge praise for Kuldeep Yadav during 2018-19 Australia tour To this, Ashwin recently reacted to Shastri's remark and told in an interview with The Cricket Monthly, "I hold Ravi bhai in high esteem. We all do. In that moment, though, I felt crushed. Absolutely crushed. We all talk about how important it is to enjoy your team-mates' success. And I was happy for Kuldeep. I have not been able to get a five-for but he has a five-for in Australia. I know how big it is. Even when I have bowled well [at other times], I haven't ended up with a five-for. So I am genuinely happy for him. And it's an extremely happy occasion, to win in Australia." "But if I have to come and partake in his happiness, and the success of the team, I must feel like I belong there. If I feel like I am being thrown under the bus, how am I supposed to get up and come for a party to enjoy the team's or team-mate's success? I went back to my room and then I spoke to my wife. And my children were there. So we were able to, you know, shrug it off, and I still made it to the party, because, end of the day, we had won a massive series," he added. ALSO READ | I contemplated giving up the sport: R Ashwin admits to have thought of retirement between 2018-20 Now, former Indian cricketers Saba Karim and Nikhil Chopra have reacted to Ashwin's remark. Speaking on his YouTube channel Khelneeti, Karim said, "Very difficult to maintain a healthy team environment when such things come out (Ashwin's statement on Shastri). Rahul Dravid's role will be very important. Captain shouldn't feel under pressure because of such developments." On the other hand, Chopra stated, "Shastri labelled Kuldeep Yadav as the best overseas spinner. While at times you need to say these things to give confidence to a player, you need to ensure you don't disrespect other members of the team. Ashwin must be disappointed. You cannot have different treatments for different players." At present, Ashwin is gearing up for India's upcoming three-match Test series versus South Africa, in the African nation, starting from December 26 in Centurion. The 35-year-old wily off-spinner, who warmed the bench during the England Tests in the United Kingdom, will be eager to contribute with both bat and ball and guide India to their first-ever Test series win in the rainbow nation.

'Difficult to maintain....' - Former Indian cricketers react to R Ashwin's remark on Ravi Shastri

R Ashwin is gearing up for Team India's forthcoming three-match Test series versus South Africa, in the African nation, which gets underway from December 26 in Centurion. Ashwin, at 35, remains an integral part of the Test line-up and recently also returned to the limited-overs setup -- after a four-year halt -- during the 2021 T20 World Cup.

Back in mid-2017, Ashwin had lost his place in the ODI and T20I line-up whereas the rise of Kuldeep Yadav kept him on his toes even in the purest format. During India's Test series versus&nbsp;Australia in the 2018/19 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Down Under, Ashwin played the first Test in Adelaide and helped Virat Kohli &amp; Co. win the series opener by 31 runs. However, an injury led to his omission from the remainder of the series. Kuldeep made the most of his absence and played the series decider at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), Sydney to return with a five-fer. Hence, then head coach Ravi Shastri labelled Kuldeep as the 'No. 1 overseas spinner' for India.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-contemplated-giving-up-the-sport-r-ashwin-admits-to-have-thought-of-retirement-between-2018-20-438664">I contemplated giving up the sport: R Ashwin admits to have thought of retirement between 2018-20</a>

In an interview with&nbsp;Cricket Monthly, Ashwin opened up on former head coach Shastri's comments and said, "I hold Ravi&nbsp;bhai&nbsp;in high esteem. We all do. And I understand we all can say things and then retract them. In that moment, though, I felt crushed. Absolutely crushed. We all talk about how important it is to enjoy your team-mates' success.

"And I was happy for Kuldeep. I have not been able to get a five-for but he has a five-for in Australia. I know how big it is. Even when I have bowled well [at other times], I haven't ended up with a five-for. So I am genuinely happy for him. And it's an extremely happy occasion, to win in Australia. But if I have to come and partake in his happiness, and the success of the team, I must feel like I belong there. If I feel like I am being thrown under the bus, how am I supposed to get up and come for a party to enjoy the team's or team-mate's success?," said Ashwin.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-couldve-picked-up-the-phone-aakash-chopra-opines-on-team-indias-odi-captaincy-row-438647">'Virat Kohli could've picked up the phone...' - Aakash Chopra opines on Team India's ODI captaincy row</a>

He added, "I went back to my room and then I spoke to my wife. And my children were there. So we were able to, you know, shrug it off, and I still made it to the party, because, end of the day, we had won a massive series."

At present, the tables have turned with Kuldeep not being in the scheme of things for the full-strength national side across formats. On the other hand, Ashwin has been on a roll in the home Tests versus England and New Zealand and was also India's second-highest wicket-taker in the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy win over Australia in their own backyard. In addition, he has contributed with the bat in crunch situations in the recent past in whites. Moreover, he has also claimed 9 wickets in five T20Is ever since his return to white-ball formats.

R Ashwin is gearing up for Team India's forthcoming three-match Test series versus South Africa, in the African nation, which gets underway from December 26 in Centurion.

R Ashwin is gearing up for Team India's forthcoming three-match Test series versus South Africa, in the African nation, which gets underway from December 26 in Centurion. Ashwin, at 35, remains an integral part of the Test line-up and recently also returned to the limited-overs setup -- after a four-year halt -- during the 2021 T20 World Cup. Back in mid-2017, Ashwin had lost his place in the ODI and T20I line-up whereas the rise of Kuldeep Yadav kept him on his toes even in the purest format. During India's Test series versus Australia in the 2018/19 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Down Under, Ashwin played the first Test in Adelaide and helped Virat Kohli & Co. win the series opener by 31 runs. However, an injury led to his omission from the remainder of the series. Kuldeep made the most of his absence and played the series decider at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), Sydney to return with a five-fer. Hence, then head coach Ravi Shastri labelled Kuldeep as the 'No. 1 overseas spinner' for India. ALSO READ | I contemplated giving up the sport: R Ashwin admits to have thought of retirement between 2018-20 In an interview with Cricket Monthly, Ashwin opened up on former head coach Shastri's comments and said, "I hold Ravi bhai in high esteem. We all do. And I understand we all can say things and then retract them. In that moment, though, I felt crushed. Absolutely crushed. We all talk about how important it is to enjoy your team-mates' success. "And I was happy for Kuldeep. I have not been able to get a five-for but he has a five-for in Australia. I know how big it is. Even when I have bowled well [at other times], I haven't ended up with a five-for. So I am genuinely happy for him. And it's an extremely happy occasion, to win in Australia. But if I have to come and partake in his happiness, and the success of the team, I must feel like I belong there. If I feel like I am being thrown under the bus, how am I supposed to get up and come for a party to enjoy the team's or team-mate's success?," said Ashwin. ALSO READ | 'Virat Kohli could've picked up the phone...' - Aakash Chopra opines on Team India's ODI captaincy row He added, "I went back to my room and then I spoke to my wife. And my children were there. So we were able to, you know, shrug it off, and I still made it to the party, because, end of the day, we had won a massive series." At present, the tables have turned with Kuldeep not being in the scheme of things for the full-strength national side across formats. On the other hand, Ashwin has been on a roll in the home Tests versus England and New Zealand and was also India's second-highest wicket-taker in the 2020/21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy win over Australia in their own backyard. In addition, he has contributed with the bat in crunch situations in the recent past in whites. Moreover, he has also claimed 9 wickets in five T20Is ever since his return to white-ball formats.

Felt crushed: R Ashwin recalls Ravi Shastri's huge praise for Kuldeep Yadav during 2018-19 Australia tour

Ravi Shastri's tenure as Team India's head coach ended with the national side's exit from the T20 World Cup, in the UAE. Under Shastri, India achieved wholesome success across formats but couldn't end their eight-year-long ICC-title drought.

In Tests, Shastri guided India to the No. 1 rankings and the WTC final. In limited-overs, India won bilateral series in SENA countries, won bilateral ODIs in South Africa, New Zealand and Australia, dominated at home and reached the semi-finals of the 2019 ODI World Cup.

Recently, Shastri spilled the beans on various aspects in Indian cricket during his tenure as the head coach, from mid-2017 to late 2021. During his interaction, he opened up on Ambati Rayudu's controversial omission from the CWC'19 squad.

"I had no say in that. But I wasn't okay with three wicketkeepers being picked for the World Cup. Either Ambati or Shreyas could've come in. What was the logic in having MS Dhoni, Rishabh and Dinesh all together? But I never interfered with the selectors' work, except when I was asked for feedback or as part of a general discussion," Shastri told the Times of India.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/some-in-bcci-made-sure-i-dont-get-the-job-ex-india-head-coach-ravi-shastri-makes-glaring-remark-435719">'Some in BCCI made sure I don't get the job': Ex-India head coach Ravi Shastri makes glaring remark</a>

To this, former selector and spinner Sarandeep Singh -- who was part of the MSK Prasad-led selection committee who named the WC squad -- has reacted and slammed Shastri's comments. "All the three wicket-keepers are very good as batsmen. A selector does not interfere in selection. Rishabh Pant was selected when Shikhar Dhawan got injured during the World Cup. We already had an opener in KL Rahul,"&nbsp;Sarandeep Singh told ANI.

He further asserted, "So, we were looking for someone to come and bat in the middle order and play big shots. This is the reason why Rishabh Pant was in the team. But to pick playing eleven is team management's call. The selection committee does not interfere in it. In the 2019 World Cup if you are looking at selection of Rishabh Pant then he was not their first choice. MS Dhoni and Dinesh Karthik were in the team and we were winning all the matches. We even topped the table. But suddenly with these things coming, it is upsetting for us because we did our job fairly."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-is-countering-every-point-intelligently-ex-pak-captain-reacts-to-hitmans-comments-on-virat-kohli-436601">Rohit is countering every point intelligently: Ex-Pak captain reacts to Hitman's comments on Virat Kohli</a>

He added, "We travelled all the time, we saw domestic matches in which batsmen, bowlers or all-rounders are doing well. There is nothing like that we never share anything and we just have things on the table and we say that this is the team. The captain is also sitting in the meeting all the time."

India played the semi-finals of the CWC'19 versus New Zealand and lost the thrilling contest by 18 runs at Old Trafford, Manchester.

At present, Kohli has been removed as the limited-overs captain and replaced by Rohit Sharma. Team India is gearing up for their tour of South Africa, comprising three ODIs and Tests each. Under new coach Rahul Dravid, India will play their tour opener on December 26, in Centurion, with the Test series set to be held first.

Ravi Shastri's tenure as Team India's head coach ended with the national side's exit from the T20 World Cup, in the UAE. Under Shastri, India achieved wholesome success across formats but couldn't end their eight-year-long ICC-title drought.

Ravi Shastri's tenure as Team India's head coach ended with the national side's exit from the T20 World Cup, in the UAE. Under Shastri, India achieved wholesome success across formats but couldn't end their eight-year-long ICC-title drought. In Tests, Shastri guided India to the No. 1 rankings and the WTC final. In limited-overs, India won bilateral series in SENA countries, won bilateral ODIs in South Africa, New Zealand and Australia, dominated at home and reached the semi-finals of the 2019 ODI World Cup. Recently, Shastri spilled the beans on various aspects in Indian cricket during his tenure as the head coach, from mid-2017 to late 2021. During his interaction, he opened up on Ambati Rayudu's controversial omission from the CWC'19 squad. "I had no say in that. But I wasn't okay with three wicketkeepers being picked for the World Cup. Either Ambati or Shreyas could've come in. What was the logic in having MS Dhoni, Rishabh and Dinesh all together? But I never interfered with the selectors' work, except when I was asked for feedback or as part of a general discussion," Shastri told the Times of India. ALSO READ | 'Some in BCCI made sure I don't get the job': Ex-India head coach Ravi Shastri makes glaring remark To this, former selector and spinner Sarandeep Singh -- who was part of the MSK Prasad-led selection committee who named the WC squad -- has reacted and slammed Shastri's comments. "All the three wicket-keepers are very good as batsmen. A selector does not interfere in selection. Rishabh Pant was selected when Shikhar Dhawan got injured during the World Cup. We already had an opener in KL Rahul," Sarandeep Singh told ANI. He further asserted, "So, we were looking for someone to come and bat in the middle order and play big shots. This is the reason why Rishabh Pant was in the team. But to pick playing eleven is team management's call. The selection committee does not interfere in it. In the 2019 World Cup if you are looking at selection of Rishabh Pant then he was not their first choice. MS Dhoni and Dinesh Karthik were in the team and we were winning all the matches. We even topped the table. But suddenly with these things coming, it is upsetting for us because we did our job fairly." ALSO READ | Rohit is countering every point intelligently: Ex-Pak captain reacts to Hitman's comments on Virat Kohli He added, "We travelled all the time, we saw domestic matches in which batsmen, bowlers or all-rounders are doing well. There is nothing like that we never share anything and we just have things on the table and we say that this is the team. The captain is also sitting in the meeting all the time." India played the semi-finals of the CWC'19 versus New Zealand and lost the thrilling contest by 18 runs at Old Trafford, Manchester. At present, Kohli has been removed as the limited-overs captain and replaced by Rohit Sharma. Team India is gearing up for their tour of South Africa, comprising three ODIs and Tests each. Under new coach Rahul Dravid, India will play their tour opener on December 26, in Centurion, with the Test series set to be held first.

The captain is also sitting in meeting: Former selector reacts to Shastri's remark on India's CWC'19 squad

The calendar year is coming to an end. The year 2021 was filled with sporting events, mainly due to the Covid-19 pandemic wreaking havoc in early 2020 and postponing many big-ticket tournaments.&nbsp;

Year 2021 had plenty of action on the 22-yard cricket strip. Talking about Team India, the senior men's team had some glorious highs along with two disheartening lows. While the optimists can claim that India maintained their hold in the top-3 in rankings across formats, one reality also remains that national side couldn't end their eight-year-long ICC-title drought.&nbsp;

Revisiting India's 2021, let us have a look at how Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma-starrer line-up performed in the calendar year:

Conquering all odds Down Under

Ajinkya Rahane-led India managed to draw the 2020/22 Border-Gavaskar Trophy at the halfway stage before 2021 commenced. Coming to the third and penultimate Test, Rishabh Pant's scintillating 97, Cheteshwar Pujara's lengthy stay at the middle and blockathon from R Ashwin-Hanuna Vihari led to the series being wide open, at 1-1, going into the finale at The Gabba, Brisbane.&nbsp;

The fourth and final Test lived upto expectations. Second-stringed India were jolted further with injuries to Ravindra Jadeja, Ashwin, Vihari, Jasprit Bumrah. However, they managed to keep themselves alive on the last day, chasing 328 to break Aussies' proud and unbeaten streak at the venue since 32 years.&nbsp;

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Riding on Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur's fifties in the first essay, Mohammed Siraj's five-fer and Pant-Pujara's fighting knocks in the final innings, India chased down the total with three wickets in hand to win the series 2-1 in a dramatic fashion.&nbsp;

The Test would easily go down as one of the greatest heists pulled off by a second-stringed side in the toughest format.&nbsp;

England tour of India, 2021

Soon after the triumph versus the Aussies, India hosted England in an all-format tour of the Three Lions.&nbsp;

Test series: India 3, England 1

Losing the series opener, being in a tough spot in the second Test in Chennai, hearing several criticism around the Ahmedabad pitch, Kohli-led India won the four-match Test series 3-1 to confirm their slot in the inaugural WTC final.&nbsp;

The top-performers for the home side were Ashwin (32 wickets and a ton), Axar Patel (27 wickets in his debut series), Pant and Rohit Sharma's contributions with the willow.&nbsp;

Beating Eoin Morgan &amp; Co. in white-ball formats&nbsp;

The five T20Is and three ODIs followed suit. The white-ball series was expected to be a tougher assignment for hosts given England's strength in the shorter formats. The T20Is lived upto expectations before India won it 3-2 eventually. The three ODIs saw India go 1-0 up before Morgan-less England turned it around to level it at 1-1. Nonetheless, the series finale was a tough nut to crack for the hosts before finally winning it 2-1.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-find-anything-wrong-former-india-player-opines-on-rohit-sharma-replacing-virat-kohli-as-odi-captain-435854">Don't find anything wrong: Former India player opines on Rohit Sharma replacing Virat Kohli as ODI captain</a>

WTC final - One Where India Never Turned Up&nbsp;

After the England home series, Indian players featured in the IPL 2021 edition, which was cut-short due to the second wave of the Covid-19 pandemic in India. Getting a much-needed breather before WTC final, Team India finally reached the United Kingdom in early June (for WTC final and England Tests).

The ICC World Test Championship (WTC) finale was much-awaited. Entering the final as the No. 1 ranked side, having beaten Australia in their own backyard, India were favourites versus the Black Caps. Nonetheless, India's wait for an ICC title, since 2013, extended as Kane Williamson &amp; Co. produced an all-round performance.

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Being asked to bat first, at The Rose Bowl, Southampton, India were 70 for no loss before being bundled out for 217. In reply, NZ were dismissed for 249; gaining a vital 32-run. India had no answers to Tim Southee and Kyle Jamieson's pace, swing and bounce as they were dismissed for 170 in the second innings, setting up a paltry 139-run target.

Kiwis, thus, closed the match with 8 wickets to spare and become the World Test Champions. Agony continued for India in ICC events.

India vs England, five Tests in the UK

After the shambles of the WTC final, India regrouped for&nbsp;the five Tests versus Joe Root-led England. Despite coming so close to the WTC title, India missed out in the final hurdle but had to revamp and start from scratch as the second cycle commenced with the England series.

Kohli-led India were up for the challenge. They came close to winning the five-match Test series opener in Edgbaston before rain washed out entire day five's proceedings. The second Test, at Lord's, brought more luck for India as they won their third Test at the venue, first after seven years, with a comprehensive 151-run margin. Jasprit Bumrah-Mohammed Shami's 89-run unbeaten ninth-wicket stand, KL Rahul's first-innings ton, Mohammed Siraj's eight-wicket haul led to India going 1-0 up despite conceding a 27-run lead.

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The third Test was a disaster for the visitors, losing by an innings and 76 runs. The fourth and penultimate Test once again tested Kohli's brigade to the core but they triumphed against all odds. Being asked to bat first, India were dismissed for 190, after reeling at 127-7 at one stage. To add to this, they conceded a 99-run lead before staging a comeback for the ages.

Riding on Rohit's 127 and fifties from Cheteshwar Pujara, Shardul Thakur (twin half-centuries in the match), Rishabh Pant and cameos from the tail, India set up a daunting 368-run target for Root &amp; Co. In reply, the hosts fell like nine pins, for 210, to lose by 151 runs. Thus, England gave an unassailable lead to the tourists.

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The fifth and final Test, in Manchester, got cancelled at the last minute due to Covid-19 crisis in the Indian camp. The series decider will be held next year as Team India loyalists are desperately waiting for the national side's first-ever Test series win on English soil since 2007.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-being-able-to-win-icc-title-mightve-cost-virat-kohli-the-odi-captaincy-former-indian-wicketkeeper-435848">Not being able to win ICC title might've cost Virat Kohli the ODI captaincy: Former Indian wicketkeeper</a>

T20 World Cup 2021 - India succumb to new low

After the England Tests and final leg of IPL 2021, in the UAE, the action moved to the Men's T20 World Cup. Starting as one of the strongest contenders, India endured a horrible start. In their opening game, Kohli-led India lost to arch-rivals Pakistan for the first time in World Cup history (both in ODIs and T20Is). Losing by ten wickets, India had a herculean task to stage a comeback.

Nonetheless, more embarrassment awaited the one-time winners. India's losing streak versus New Zealand in ICC events, since 2007, continued as they were hammered by the Black Caps in their second outing. Starring on the brink of an early exit, India gathered themselves to pull off three convincing wins, however, the writing was on the wall long back.

India failed to move past the group stages with three wins from five encounters. Winning against the likes of Afghanistan, Scotland and Namibia didn't matter as the Pakistan and New Zealand encounters dented India's campaign severely.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/some-in-bcci-made-sure-i-dont-get-the-job-ex-india-head-coach-ravi-shastri-makes-glaring-remark-435719">'Some in BCCI made sure I don't get the job': Ex-India head coach Ravi Shastri makes glaring remark</a>

New Zealand tour of India: Start of Rahul Dravid-era

Post the disheartening T20 WC, India began a new era under Rahul Dravid. After much hesitation, Dravid replaced Ravi Shastri to become India's head coach as the former all-rounder's tenure ended with the T20 WC campaign. In addition, Kohli stepped aside as the Indian captain in T20Is -- having made the official announcement prior to the mega event -- and was replaced by Rohit.

While Rohit-led India commenced a new journey in the shortest format with the home series versus NZ. Sans Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami and the likes, India demolished the Black Caps 3-0. The two-match Test series followed suit.

It wasn't going to be easy versus the World Test champions. Hence, Williamson-led Kiwis held onto a fighting draw in the series opener, which saw Ajinkya Rahane leading the side in Kohli's absence. The second and final Test brought Kohli back in action as the hosts humbled the visitors at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.

Courtesy Mayank Agarwal's 150 and vital contributions from Axar Patel, Jayant Yadav and R Ashwin, India beat New Zealand by a whopping 372-run margin (their biggest win by runs).

India still have a Test left in the calendar year. They are scheduled to tour South Africa, comprising three Tests and ODIs each, but the tour-opener will commence on December 26 with the first Test at Centurion.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/a-new-era-3-reasons-why-rohit-sharmas-appointment-as-odi-captain-can-be-a-good-move-for-team-india-435882">A new era! 3 reasons why Rohit Sharma's appointment as ODI captain can be a good move for Team India</a>

The ICC title wait, unearthing of young stars, change in leadership group

Overall, India had a topsy-turvy ride in 2021. While they continued to remain a solid unit across formats, they particularly flourished in bilateral series as an ICC title continues to evade them. Young stars such as Prasidh Krishna, Mohammed Siraj, Ishan Kishan, Pant, etc. made a mark whereas KL Rahul rose in prominence and stature. Kohli lost limited-overs captaincy altogether as Rohit-Dravid-era has commenced in the white-ball formats.

Team India will hope to continue their dominance at home and conquer more Test series away from home. However, their biggest aim would be to end their eight-year-long ICC-title drought.

The calendar year is coming to an end. The year 2021 was filled with sporting events, mainly due to the Covid-19 pandemic wreaking havoc in early 2020 and postponing many big-ticket tournaments.

The calendar year is coming to an end. The year 2021 was filled with sporting events, mainly due to the Covid-19 pandemic wreaking havoc in early 2020 and postponing many big-ticket tournaments. Year 2021 had plenty of action on the 22-yard cricket strip. Talking about Team India, the senior men's team had some glorious highs along with two disheartening lows. While the optimists can claim that India maintained their hold in the top-3 in rankings across formats, one reality also remains that national side couldn't end their eight-year-long ICC-title drought. Revisiting India's 2021, let us have a look at how Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma-starrer line-up performed in the calendar year: Conquering all odds Down Under Ajinkya Rahane-led India managed to draw the 2020/22 Border-Gavaskar Trophy at the halfway stage before 2021 commenced. Coming to the third and penultimate Test, Rishabh Pant's scintillating 97, Cheteshwar Pujara's lengthy stay at the middle and blockathon from R Ashwin-Hanuna Vihari led to the series being wide open, at 1-1, going into the finale at The Gabba, Brisbane. The fourth and final Test lived upto expectations. Second-stringed India were jolted further with injuries to Ravindra Jadeja, Ashwin, Vihari, Jasprit Bumrah. However, they managed to keep themselves alive on the last day, chasing 328 to break Aussies' proud and unbeaten streak at the venue since 32 years. × Riding on Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur's fifties in the first essay, Mohammed Siraj's five-fer and Pant-Pujara's fighting knocks in the final innings, India chased down the total with three wickets in hand to win the series 2-1 in a dramatic fashion. The Test would easily go down as one of the greatest heists pulled off by a second-stringed side in the toughest format. England tour of India, 2021 Soon after the triumph versus the Aussies, India hosted England in an all-format tour of the Three Lions. Test series: India 3, England 1 Losing the series opener, being in a tough spot in the second Test in Chennai, hearing several criticism around the Ahmedabad pitch, Kohli-led India won the four-match Test series 3-1 to confirm their slot in the inaugural WTC final. The top-performers for the home side were Ashwin (32 wickets and a ton), Axar Patel (27 wickets in his debut series), Pant and Rohit Sharma's contributions with the willow. Beating Eoin Morgan & Co. in white-ball formats The five T20Is and three ODIs followed suit. The white-ball series was expected to be a tougher assignment for hosts given England's strength in the shorter formats. The T20Is lived upto expectations before India won it 3-2 eventually. The three ODIs saw India go 1-0 up before Morgan-less England turned it around to level it at 1-1. Nonetheless, the series finale was a tough nut to crack for the hosts before finally winning it 2-1. ALSO READ | Don't find anything wrong: Former India player opines on Rohit Sharma replacing Virat Kohli as ODI captain WTC final - One Where India Never Turned Up After the England home series, Indian players featured in the IPL 2021 edition, which was cut-short due to the second wave of the Covid-19 pandemic in India. Getting a much-needed breather before WTC final, Team India finally reached the United Kingdom in early June (for WTC final and England Tests). The ICC World Test Championship (WTC) finale was much-awaited. Entering the final as the No. 1 ranked side, having beaten Australia in their own backyard, India were favourites versus the Black Caps. Nonetheless, India's wait for an ICC title, since 2013, extended as Kane Williamson & Co. produced an all-round performance. × Being asked to bat first, at The Rose Bowl, Southampton, India were 70 for no loss before being bundled out for 217. In reply, NZ were dismissed for 249; gaining a vital 32-run. India had no answers to Tim Southee and Kyle Jamieson's pace, swing and bounce as they were dismissed for 170 in the second innings, setting up a paltry 139-run target. Kiwis, thus, closed the match with 8 wickets to spare and become the World Test Champions. Agony continued for India in ICC events. India vs England, five Tests in the UK After the shambles of the WTC final, India regrouped for the five Tests versus Joe Root-led England. Despite coming so close to the WTC title, India missed out in the final hurdle but had to revamp and start from scratch as the second cycle commenced with the England series. Kohli-led India were up for the challenge. They came close to winning the five-match Test series opener in Edgbaston before rain washed out entire day five's proceedings. The second Test, at Lord's, brought more luck for India as they won their third Test at the venue, first after seven years, with a comprehensive 151-run margin. Jasprit Bumrah-Mohammed Shami's 89-run unbeaten ninth-wicket stand, KL Rahul's first-innings ton, Mohammed Siraj's eight-wicket haul led to India going 1-0 up despite conceding a 27-run lead. × The third Test was a disaster for the visitors, losing by an innings and 76 runs. The fourth and penultimate Test once again tested Kohli's brigade to the core but they triumphed against all odds. Being asked to bat first, India were dismissed for 190, after reeling at 127-7 at one stage. To add to this, they conceded a 99-run lead before staging a comeback for the ages. Riding on Rohit's 127 and fifties from Cheteshwar Pujara, Shardul Thakur (twin half-centuries in the match), Rishabh Pant and cameos from the tail, India set up a daunting 368-run target for Root & Co. In reply, the hosts fell like nine pins, for 210, to lose by 151 runs. Thus, England gave an unassailable lead to the tourists. × The fifth and final Test, in Manchester, got cancelled at the last minute due to Covid-19 crisis in the Indian camp. The series decider will be held next year as Team India loyalists are desperately waiting for the national side's first-ever Test series win on English soil since 2007. ALSO READ | Not being able to win ICC title might've cost Virat Kohli the ODI captaincy: Former Indian wicketkeeper T20 World Cup 2021 - India succumb to new low After the England Tests and final leg of IPL 2021, in the UAE, the action moved to the Men's T20 World Cup. Starting as one of the strongest contenders, India endured a horrible start. In their opening game, Kohli-led India lost to arch-rivals Pakistan for the first time in World Cup history (both in ODIs and T20Is). Losing by ten wickets, India had a herculean task to stage a comeback. Nonetheless, more embarrassment awaited the one-time winners. India's losing streak versus New Zealand in ICC events, since 2007, continued as they were hammered by the Black Caps in their second outing. Starring on the brink of an early exit, India gathered themselves to pull off three convincing wins, however, the writing was on the wall long back. India failed to move past the group stages with three wins from five encounters. Winning against the likes of Afghanistan, Scotland and Namibia didn't matter as the Pakistan and New Zealand encounters dented India's campaign severely. ALSO READ | 'Some in BCCI made sure I don't get the job': Ex-India head coach Ravi Shastri makes glaring remark New Zealand tour of India: Start of Rahul Dravid-era Post the disheartening T20 WC, India began a new era under Rahul Dravid. After much hesitation, Dravid replaced Ravi Shastri to become India's head coach as the former all-rounder's tenure ended with the T20 WC campaign. In addition, Kohli stepped aside as the Indian captain in T20Is -- having made the official announcement prior to the mega event -- and was replaced by Rohit. While Rohit-led India commenced a new journey in the shortest format with the home series versus NZ. Sans Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami and the likes, India demolished the Black Caps 3-0. The two-match Test series followed suit. It wasn't going to be easy versus the World Test champions. Hence, Williamson-led Kiwis held onto a fighting draw in the series opener, which saw Ajinkya Rahane leading the side in Kohli's absence. The second and final Test brought Kohli back in action as the hosts humbled the visitors at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai. Courtesy Mayank Agarwal's 150 and vital contributions from Axar Patel, Jayant Yadav and R Ashwin, India beat New Zealand by a whopping 372-run margin (their biggest win by runs). India still have a Test left in the calendar year. They are scheduled to tour South Africa, comprising three Tests and ODIs each, but the tour-opener will commence on December 26 with the first Test at Centurion. ALSO READ | A new era! 3 reasons why Rohit Sharma's appointment as ODI captain can be a good move for Team India The ICC title wait, unearthing of young stars, change in leadership group Overall, India had a topsy-turvy ride in 2021. While they continued to remain a solid unit across formats, they particularly flourished in bilateral series as an ICC title continues to evade them. Young stars such as Prasidh Krishna, Mohammed Siraj, Ishan Kishan, Pant, etc. made a mark whereas KL Rahul rose in prominence and stature. Kohli lost limited-overs captaincy altogether as Rohit-Dravid-era has commenced in the white-ball formats. Team India will hope to continue their dominance at home and conquer more Test series away from home. However, their biggest aim would be to end their eight-year-long ICC-title drought.

From conquering Aussies Down Under to T20 World Cup debacle: Team India in 2021

Ravi Shastri's tenure as Team India's head coach ended with the national side's exit from the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. Hence, Shastri's four-year-long tenure as head coach finally came to an end, which included several highs as well as some big jolts.

For the unversed, Shastri took over as the head coach in mid-2017 after Anil Kumble's unceremonious exit. Under him, India beat Australia twice in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under, earned an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the five Tests in the United Kingdom early this year, reached the 2019 ODI World Cup semi-finals and ended as runners-up in the inaugural WTC. In addition, India dominated oppositions at home, across formats, and enjoyed wholesome success in limited-overs bilateral series while being on the road.

Nonetheless, the former all-rounder-cum-renowned-commentator's contributions for Indian cricket continued even before he took over as head coach in 2017. In 2014, he was roped in as team director, amid then coach Duncan Fletcher's presence, and continued to perform the role till early 2016. Thus, he was touted to be the ideal candidate to succeed Fletcher (continuing in his role even after Fletcher's departure). However, BCCI went ahead with Kumble before the former Indian spinner's rift with Virat Kohli brought Shastri back into the scheme of things,&nbsp;as the head coach.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-was-given-2-days-to-resign-as-odi-captain-before-bcci-announced-rohit-as-his-successor-report-435370">Virat Kohli was given 2 days to resign as ODI captain before BCCI announced Rohit as his successor: Report</a>

Opining no the time he lost the head coach position in early 2016, Shastri told TOI in a recent interview, "There was this bolt from the blue. In less than two years after I was asked set aside my broadcast career, leave everything else and join the team, I suddenly found myself out for no reason. I had sown the seeds and the fruits were beginning to show and out of nowhere I came to know I was being replaced. Nobody told me why."

On being asked if the decision hurt him, the former cricketer didn't hold back and claimed,&nbsp;"Yes, more than anything, it hurt because of the manner in which it was done. For all that I had contributed, just on one word from the BCCI, there were better ways to let me know 'Oh look we don't want you, we don't like you. We want somebody else'&nbsp;- if that was the case. Anyway, I went back to do what I do best - which is television. Around nine months passed, and I didn't even have a clue that there was anything wrong inside the team. I mean, what could've been wrong? I was told there was a real problem and I said - how can there be a problem in nine months? The team that I had left was in such a good space. How the hell in nine months could something go that drastically wrong?"

Glaring remark by the ex-Indian head coach

He further asserted, "During my second stint, I came after a huge controversy. And it was literally egg on the faces of those who wanted me away. They opted for someone and nine months later, they came back to the very guy they threw out. And I'm not pointing any fingers at people (BCCI) in general. Specific people. I must say an attempt was made to ensure I don't get the job. But such is life."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-is-not-overawed-ravi-shastri-gives-his-take-on-captain-rohit-sharma-as-hitman-succeeds-virat-kohli-435518">'He is not overawed' - Ravi Shastri gives his take on Captain Rohit Sharma as Hitman succeeds Virat Kohli</a>

Thus, Shastri has pointed fingers at few people in the BCCI who didn't want him as the head coach initially in 2016. At present, he has been succeeded by Rahul Dravid whereas Team India have also gone through several changes post Shastri's exit.&nbsp;

Kohli has been replaced by Rohit Sharma as India's limited-overs captain. While the former continues to be in-charge of the Test side, Rohit has been promoted as his deputy in whites.

India are next scheduled to play three Tests and ODIs each versus South Africa, in the African nation, from December 26.

Ravi Shastri's tenure as Team India's head coach ended with the national side's exit from the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. Hence, Shastri's four-year-long tenure as head coach finally came to an end, which included several highs as well as some big jolts.

Ravi Shastri's tenure as Team India's head coach ended with the national side's exit from the 2021 T20 World Cup, in the UAE. Hence, Shastri's four-year-long tenure as head coach finally came to an end, which included several highs as well as some big jolts. For the unversed, Shastri took over as the head coach in mid-2017 after Anil Kumble's unceremonious exit. Under him, India beat Australia twice in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy Down Under, earned an unassailable 2-1 lead over England in the five Tests in the United Kingdom early this year, reached the 2019 ODI World Cup semi-finals and ended as runners-up in the inaugural WTC. In addition, India dominated oppositions at home, across formats, and enjoyed wholesome success in limited-overs bilateral series while being on the road. Nonetheless, the former all-rounder-cum-renowned-commentator's contributions for Indian cricket continued even before he took over as head coach in 2017. In 2014, he was roped in as team director, amid then coach Duncan Fletcher's presence, and continued to perform the role till early 2016. Thus, he was touted to be the ideal candidate to succeed Fletcher (continuing in his role even after Fletcher's departure). However, BCCI went ahead with Kumble before the former Indian spinner's rift with Virat Kohli brought Shastri back into the scheme of things, as the head coach. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli was given 2 days to resign as ODI captain before BCCI announced Rohit as his successor: Report Opining no the time he lost the head coach position in early 2016, Shastri told TOI in a recent interview, "There was this bolt from the blue. In less than two years after I was asked set aside my broadcast career, leave everything else and join the team, I suddenly found myself out for no reason. I had sown the seeds and the fruits were beginning to show and out of nowhere I came to know I was being replaced. Nobody told me why." On being asked if the decision hurt him, the former cricketer didn't hold back and claimed, "Yes, more than anything, it hurt because of the manner in which it was done. For all that I had contributed, just on one word from the BCCI, there were better ways to let me know 'Oh look we don't want you, we don't like you. We want somebody else' - if that was the case. Anyway, I went back to do what I do best - which is television. Around nine months passed, and I didn't even have a clue that there was anything wrong inside the team. I mean, what could've been wrong? I was told there was a real problem and I said - how can there be a problem in nine months? The team that I had left was in such a good space. How the hell in nine months could something go that drastically wrong?" Glaring remark by the ex-Indian head coach He further asserted, "During my second stint, I came after a huge controversy. And it was literally egg on the faces of those who wanted me away. They opted for someone and nine months later, they came back to the very guy they threw out. And I'm not pointing any fingers at people (BCCI) in general. Specific people. I must say an attempt was made to ensure I don't get the job. But such is life." ALSO READ | 'He is not overawed' - Ravi Shastri gives his take on Captain Rohit Sharma as Hitman succeeds Virat Kohli Thus, Shastri has pointed fingers at few people in the BCCI who didn't want him as the head coach initially in 2016. At present, he has been succeeded by Rahul Dravid whereas Team India have also gone through several changes post Shastri's exit. Kohli has been replaced by Rohit Sharma as India's limited-overs captain. While the former continues to be in-charge of the Test side, Rohit has been promoted as his deputy in whites. India are next scheduled to play three Tests and ODIs each versus South Africa, in the African nation, from December 26.

'Some in BCCI made sure I don't get the job': Ex-India head coach Ravi Shastri makes glaring remark

Former India fielding coach R Sridhar has heaped praise on ex-India head coach Ravi Shastri. Sridhar, who worked under Shastri during his tenure with the Indian team, said a bad day for the team used to be a great coaching opportunity for him. India had a few terrible outings on the field under Shastri but managed to bounce back stronger each time.

India's worst defeat under Shastri came in the Adelaide Test against Australia during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2020-21 when the visitors were bundled out for a record lowest total of 36 runs in their second innings. In August this year, India were skittled out for 78 in the Leeds Test against England. However, on both occasions, they managed to bounce back and win their next game.

“It was a wonderful opportunity to learn. To me, as a coach, a bad day is a great coaching opportunity. Good days are not great coaching opportunities but bad days are. When I say coaching opportunity, it's about understanding the person, striking a nice relationship with the players, an opportunity to coach them technically and mentally if required," Sridhar was quoted as saying by PTI.

The former India fielding coach recalled an instance when Shastri got a call from Australian great Greg Chapell, who asked him 'how the hell' did his team manage to bounce back even after facing several losses. Sridhar said to stage a comeback from such situations was the real character shown by the Indian team under Shastri and that every bad day was harnessed like a gold mine.

“Recently, Greg Chappell called up and asked Ravi Bhai, ‘How the hell do you bounce back after so many losses?’ That's a benchmark for this team. Every bad day was harnessed like a gold mine," Sridhar said.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/a-new-era-3-reasons-why-rohit-sharmas-appointment-as-odi-captain-can-be-a-good-move-for-team-india-435882">3 reasons why Rohit Sharma's appointment as ODI captain can be a good move for Team India</a>

While India failed to win a single ICC trophy under Shastri as the head coach of the team, the Virat Kohli-led side became a force to reckon with in Test cricket and registered some memorable series wins both at home and away from home, including back-to-back Test series wins in Australia.

Shastri's tenure as the head coach came to an end after the conclusion of the T20 World Cup in October this year following which he was replaced by current head coach Rahul Dravid. Sridhar, meanwhile, has been replaced by TK Diliep as the fielding coach of the team.&nbsp;

Former India fielding coach R Sridhar has heaped praise on ex-India head coach Ravi Shastri. Sridhar, who worked under Shastri during his tenure with the Indian team, said a bad day for the team used to be a great coaching opportunity for him.

Former India fielding coach R Sridhar has heaped praise on ex-India head coach Ravi Shastri. Sridhar, who worked under Shastri during his tenure with the Indian team, said a bad day for the team used to be a great coaching opportunity for him. India had a few terrible outings on the field under Shastri but managed to bounce back stronger each time. India's worst defeat under Shastri came in the Adelaide Test against Australia during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2020-21 when the visitors were bundled out for a record lowest total of 36 runs in their second innings. In August this year, India were skittled out for 78 in the Leeds Test against England. However, on both occasions, they managed to bounce back and win their next game. “It was a wonderful opportunity to learn. To me, as a coach, a bad day is a great coaching opportunity. Good days are not great coaching opportunities but bad days are. When I say coaching opportunity, it's about understanding the person, striking a nice relationship with the players, an opportunity to coach them technically and mentally if required," Sridhar was quoted as saying by PTI. The former India fielding coach recalled an instance when Shastri got a call from Australian great Greg Chapell, who asked him 'how the hell' did his team manage to bounce back even after facing several losses. Sridhar said to stage a comeback from such situations was the real character shown by the Indian team under Shastri and that every bad day was harnessed like a gold mine. “Recently, Greg Chappell called up and asked Ravi Bhai, ‘How the hell do you bounce back after so many losses?’ That's a benchmark for this team. Every bad day was harnessed like a gold mine," Sridhar said. Also Read: 3 reasons why Rohit Sharma's appointment as ODI captain can be a good move for Team India While India failed to win a single ICC trophy under Shastri as the head coach of the team, the Virat Kohli-led side became a force to reckon with in Test cricket and registered some memorable series wins both at home and away from home, including back-to-back Test series wins in Australia. Shastri's tenure as the head coach came to an end after the conclusion of the T20 World Cup in October this year following which he was replaced by current head coach Rahul Dravid. Sridhar, meanwhile, has been replaced by TK Diliep as the fielding coach of the team.

'How the hell do you bounce back': When Greg Chappell called Ravi Shastri to laud Team India

India are set to tour South Africa where they will play three Tests and equal number of ODIs. The tour opener will commence on December 26 with the first Test scheduled to take place in Centurion. The No. 1 ranked Indian Test side have a huge opportunity to win their first-ever series in South Africa. On the other hand, Kohli will also be eager to win another series overseas, after the highs in Australia and England.

Back in early 2018, Kohli-led India had toured South Africa for three Tests, six ODIs and three T20Is. At that time, India had their chances in the first two Tests but ended on the losing side before finishing the series with a consolation win. While India did compete really well, many slammed the then team management for their poor selection calls. Vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane was dropped for the first two Tests as Rohit Sharma was preferred in the middle-order. The move didn't pay rich dividends as Hitman amassed 78 runs in four innings, at 19.50.

Rahane was added to the playing XI for the third and final Test at Johannesburg, where his vital 48 in the second innings helped India win the Test by 63 runs. Ex-Indian head coach Ravi Shastri has now opened up on why Rahane wasn't preferred over Rohit.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-had-the-character-game-and-personality-to-step-into-ms-dhonis-shoes-says-ravi-shastri-435772">Virat Kohli had the character, game and personality to step into MS Dhoni's shoes, says Ravi Shastri</a>

Speaking to&nbsp;Times Of India, Shastri said, "It was always going to be between Rohit &amp; Ajinkya. There was no space for both. Rohit had got runs and we had been watching Test hunger build in him. So, we went by form. That's why Ajinkya didn't find a place."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/have-to-prepare-for-103-situations-rohit-sharma-sets-sight-on-middle-order-to-end-indias-icc-title-drought-435813">Have to prepare for 10/3 situations: Rohit Sharma sets sight on middle-order to end India's ICC-title drought</a>

On Wednesday (December 8), BCCI named Rohit as Kohli's deputy in whites, replacing Rahane. For the unversed, Rohit has raised his stature as a Test batsman whereas Rahane has only two fifty-plus scores since his last ton, which came in late 2020.

It will be interesting to see how Rahul Dravid-Kohli strategise and take India ahead in the forthcoming three Tests versus Dean Elgar-led Proteas in the African nation.

India are set to tour South Africa where they will play three Tests and equal number of ODIs. The tour opener will commence on December 26 with the first Test scheduled to take place in Centurion.

India are set to tour South Africa where they will play three Tests and equal number of ODIs. The tour opener will commence on December 26 with the first Test scheduled to take place in Centurion. The No. 1 ranked Indian Test side have a huge opportunity to win their first-ever series in South Africa. On the other hand, Kohli will also be eager to win another series overseas, after the highs in Australia and England. Back in early 2018, Kohli-led India had toured South Africa for three Tests, six ODIs and three T20Is. At that time, India had their chances in the first two Tests but ended on the losing side before finishing the series with a consolation win. While India did compete really well, many slammed the then team management for their poor selection calls. Vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane was dropped for the first two Tests as Rohit Sharma was preferred in the middle-order. The move didn't pay rich dividends as Hitman amassed 78 runs in four innings, at 19.50. Rahane was added to the playing XI for the third and final Test at Johannesburg, where his vital 48 in the second innings helped India win the Test by 63 runs. Ex-Indian head coach Ravi Shastri has now opened up on why Rahane wasn't preferred over Rohit. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli had the character, game and personality to step into MS Dhoni's shoes, says Ravi Shastri Speaking to Times Of India, Shastri said, "It was always going to be between Rohit & Ajinkya. There was no space for both. Rohit had got runs and we had been watching Test hunger build in him. So, we went by form. That's why Ajinkya didn't find a place." ALSO READ | Have to prepare for 10/3 situations: Rohit Sharma sets sight on middle-order to end India's ICC-title drought On Wednesday (December 8), BCCI named Rohit as Kohli's deputy in whites, replacing Rahane. For the unversed, Rohit has raised his stature as a Test batsman whereas Rahane has only two fifty-plus scores since his last ton, which came in late 2020. It will be interesting to see how Rahul Dravid-Kohli strategise and take India ahead in the forthcoming three Tests versus Dean Elgar-led Proteas in the African nation.

Ravi Shastri reveals why Ajinkya Rahane wasn't preferred over Rohit Sharma during 2018 SA tour

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