Several reports on Saturday suggested that Team India are looking to call Prithvi Shaw from Sri Lanka in order to replace injured Shubman Gill for the upcoming England Test series. However, World Cup-winning captain Kapil Dev is not in favour of this decision.&nbsp;

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The legendary all-rounder feels that the current India squad in England already have the likes of Mayank Agarwal and KL Rahul and calling up a player, who is not in the squad will not reflect nicely on the management's part and will be an 'insult' to the players who are already a part of the tour.&nbsp;

"I don't think there is any need for it. There should be some respect for the selectors too. They have picked a team and I'm sure it wouldn't have happened without their (Shastri and Kohli) consultation. I mean, you have two such big opening batsmen in KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal. Do you really need a third option? I don't think it's right," Kapil said on the 'Wah Cricket' show on ABP News.

"I'm not convinced with this theory. The team that they've picked already has openers so I think they should be the ones to play. Otherwise, it's insulting for the players who are already in the team."

"I want that the captain and the management should have a say, but not at the expense of over-ruling the selectors and say that 'these are the players we need'. In that case, we don't even need selectors. I am feeling a bit odd knowing that something like this has happened, because if it has, it demeans the selectors and their role," he said.

"Only Virat and Ravi can say that. I feel that this is a wrong set-up to enter. The players you have backed, you cannot demean them. They are big players and I wouldn't want something like this to happen. No need for any unnecessary controversy."

Several reports on Saturday suggested that Team India are looking to call Prithvi Shaw from Sri Lanka in order to replace injured Shubman Gill for the upcoming England Test series.

Several reports on Saturday suggested that Team India are looking to call Prithvi Shaw from Sri Lanka in order to replace injured Shubman Gill for the upcoming England Test series. However, World Cup-winning captain Kapil Dev is not in favour of this decision. ALSO READ: India captain Mithali Raj shatters huge batting record; BCCI reacts The legendary all-rounder feels that the current India squad in England already have the likes of Mayank Agarwal and KL Rahul and calling up a player, who is not in the squad will not reflect nicely on the management's part and will be an 'insult' to the players who are already a part of the tour. "I don't think there is any need for it. There should be some respect for the selectors too. They have picked a team and I'm sure it wouldn't have happened without their (Shastri and Kohli) consultation. I mean, you have two such big opening batsmen in KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal. Do you really need a third option? I don't think it's right," Kapil said on the 'Wah Cricket' show on ABP News. "I'm not convinced with this theory. The team that they've picked already has openers so I think they should be the ones to play. Otherwise, it's insulting for the players who are already in the team." "I want that the captain and the management should have a say, but not at the expense of over-ruling the selectors and say that 'these are the players we need'. In that case, we don't even need selectors. I am feeling a bit odd knowing that something like this has happened, because if it has, it demeans the selectors and their role," he said. "Only Virat and Ravi can say that. I feel that this is a wrong set-up to enter. The players you have backed, you cannot demean them. They are big players and I wouldn't want something like this to happen. No need for any unnecessary controversy."

'I'm not convinced with this theory': Kapil Dev not in favour of additions in squads

With just over a day to go for the WTC final between India and New Zealand, former pacer Venkatesh Prasad has predicted Team India's playing XI as they take to pitch at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton on Friday.&nbsp;

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Venkatesh Prasad feels that Team India have the depth in both (batting and bowling) departments and expected the clash to be a cracking game.&nbsp;

He took to social media and tweeted: "My Indian playing 11 for the #WTCFinal is a no-brainier (Rohit, Shubman,Pujara, Virat, Rahane, Pant, Jadeja, Ashwin, Shami, Ishant &amp; Bumrah ). They have the depth in both batting &amp; bowling irrespective of the pitch. Should be a cracking game."

Team India suffered a crushing defeat in the Test series at the hands of New Zealand that was played in 2020. New Zealand's pace attack proved to be too good for Team India in the series, therefore, the Indian batting order will be very crucial for the juggernaut clash in Southampton.&nbsp;

Earlier, former Indian cricketer, VVS Laxman predicted Team India's batting order for the match and said that he will go ahead with five batsmen.&nbsp;

India squad for WTC final: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (c), Ajinkya Rahane, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant, Wriddhiman Saha, Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, Mohammad Shami, Umesh Yadav, Mohammed Siraj.&nbsp;

With just over a day to go for the WTC final between India and New Zealand, former pacer Venkatesh Prasad has predicted Team India's playing XI as they take to pitch at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton on Friday.

With just over a day to go for the WTC final between India and New Zealand, former pacer Venkatesh Prasad has predicted Team India's playing XI as they take to pitch at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton on Friday. ALSO READ: Cricket: Taylor targets Final redemption in ICC World Test Championship Venkatesh Prasad feels that Team India have the depth in both (batting and bowling) departments and expected the clash to be a cracking game. He took to social media and tweeted: "My Indian playing 11 for the #WTCFinal is a no-brainier (Rohit, Shubman,Pujara, Virat, Rahane, Pant, Jadeja, Ashwin, Shami, Ishant & Bumrah ). They have the depth in both batting & bowling irrespective of the pitch. Should be a cracking game." Team India suffered a crushing defeat in the Test series at the hands of New Zealand that was played in 2020. New Zealand's pace attack proved to be too good for Team India in the series, therefore, the Indian batting order will be very crucial for the juggernaut clash in Southampton. Earlier, former Indian cricketer, VVS Laxman predicted Team India's batting order for the match and said that he will go ahead with five batsmen. India squad for WTC final: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (c), Ajinkya Rahane, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant, Wriddhiman Saha, Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, Mohammad Shami, Umesh Yadav, Mohammed Siraj.

Venkatesh Prasad reveals his playing XI for Team India ahead of WTC final

Former Pakistan skipper lauded the duo of Ravi Shastri and Virat Kohli for creating a positive atmosphere in the team. Indian skipper Virat Kohli,&nbsp;under head coach Ravi Shastri, has&nbsp;achieved several feats.&nbsp;

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"At present, the Indian team is fearless while taking on any opposition including Pakistan. The cricketing system is also responsible for this change in Indian cricket. Virat Kohli and Shastri have created a winning environment in the team," Ramiz Raja told India TV.

"Any new player who joins the Indian set-up knows demands in international cricket. So, from a bowling point of view, the Indian team is better than ever. It has got variation as well as a good leader like Kohli."

Team India have been a dominant force in Test cricket and have won twice in Australia. Virat and Co., under Shastri, have performed well in ICC tournaments too, however, are yet to win one.&nbsp;

According to Ramiz, Team India are at its very best in terms of the bowling unit, whereas, he pointed out a few concerns with the team's batting lineup.&nbsp;

"The Indian team is currently the best from a bowling point of view. On the batting front, I believe that there's still scope for improvement. Tendulkar, Dravid, Laxman, and Ganguly were a part of India's golden batting era. But from a winning point of view, especially in overseas conditions, the current Indian team has done a marvellous job. Coach Ravi Shastri also deserves credit for this," Raja explained.

Former Pakistan skipper lauded the duo of Ravi Shastri and Virat Kohli for creating a positive atmosphere in the team. Indian skipper Virat Kohli, under head coach Ravi Shastri, has achieved several feats.

Former Pakistan skipper lauded the duo of Ravi Shastri and Virat Kohli for creating a positive atmosphere in the team. Indian skipper Virat Kohli, under head coach Ravi Shastri, has achieved several feats. ALSO READ: Cricket: Windies recall Hope against South Africa, injured Gabriel out "At present, the Indian team is fearless while taking on any opposition including Pakistan. The cricketing system is also responsible for this change in Indian cricket. Virat Kohli and Shastri have created a winning environment in the team," Ramiz Raja told India TV. "Any new player who joins the Indian set-up knows demands in international cricket. So, from a bowling point of view, the Indian team is better than ever. It has got variation as well as a good leader like Kohli." Team India have been a dominant force in Test cricket and have won twice in Australia. Virat and Co., under Shastri, have performed well in ICC tournaments too, however, are yet to win one. According to Ramiz, Team India are at its very best in terms of the bowling unit, whereas, he pointed out a few concerns with the team's batting lineup. "The Indian team is currently the best from a bowling point of view. On the batting front, I believe that there's still scope for improvement. Tendulkar, Dravid, Laxman, and Ganguly were a part of India's golden batting era. But from a winning point of view, especially in overseas conditions, the current Indian team has done a marvellous job. Coach Ravi Shastri also deserves credit for this," Raja explained.

Cricket: 'Virat Kohli and Ravi Shastri have created winning environment in team', says Ramiz Raja

Virat and Co. will take on Kane Williamson's New Zealand in the much-awaited World Test Championship finals that will take place on June 18 at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton. The conditions in England are likely to favour the seamers, however, former Indian cricketer Maninder Singh feels that Virat Kohli and team management must use Ashwin and Jadeja to their advantage and test kiwi batsmen with spin.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-this-has-got-to-be-best-indian-team-ever-sunil-gavaskar-lauds-virat-and-co-389673" hreflang="en">Cricket- 'This has got to be best Indian team ever': Sunil Gavaskar lauds Virat and Co.</a>

“If I was in the team management, I would play both Ashwin and Jadeja. They can be a huge factor,” Maninder told Hindustan Times in an interview.

“There is going to be wear and tear anywhere as the Test match progresses. I keep talking to my friends there (in England) and they say it has become hot, these summer temperatures will soar. So if it is going to be the way it is then moisture won’t be that be effective. The pitch will dry out and spinners will start getting purchase and both are spinners are of good quality,” he added.

The spin duo has featured only once together in an overseas Test for Team India, which was played in 2014.&nbsp;

Ravindra Jadeja has proved his worth with not only the bowl but also with the bat. “Jadeja’s recent form with the bat has been exceptional. He has worked on his batting a lot. He gives you an extra option of having another bowler. The confidence of scoring runs has rubbed off on his bowling.”

Ashwin too has been prolific in with the bowl. The spinner has 14 scalps in six Test matches played in England.&nbsp;

“Ashwin is a class act. Ashwin has improved a lot and he can now get you wickets on any track, which was not the case when he first started touring overseas. He never used to give you the feeling that he was going for wickets. He didn’t have the belief. But now, with the experience he is a different bowler,” he said.

“We’ve seen how Ashwin bowls on Indian pitches. He has got to have that approach. When he bowls his aim should always be to get wickets. I have never had any doubt in my mind that he will give you wickets even on foreign soils. It depends on the team management. On Kohli and Shastri... How they keep motivating him. They've got to tell him 'you are going to get wickets for us.' Ravi Shastri has been brilliant in managing the players so far. He’ll have to go the extra mile if they want to win this WTC title.

“At this level cricketers hardly need advice. It’s that slight push. That believe that you are going to wickets even on foreign soil has to be there,” he signed off.

Virat and Co. will take on Kane Williamson's New Zealand in the much-awaited World Test Championship finals that will take place on June 18 at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton.

Virat and Co. will take on Kane Williamson's New Zealand in the much-awaited World Test Championship finals that will take place on June 18 at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton. The conditions in England are likely to favour the seamers, however, former Indian cricketer Maninder Singh feels that Virat Kohli and team management must use Ashwin and Jadeja to their advantage and test kiwi batsmen with spin. ALSO READ: Cricket- 'This has got to be best Indian team ever': Sunil Gavaskar lauds Virat and Co. “If I was in the team management, I would play both Ashwin and Jadeja. They can be a huge factor,” Maninder told Hindustan Times in an interview. “There is going to be wear and tear anywhere as the Test match progresses. I keep talking to my friends there (in England) and they say it has become hot, these summer temperatures will soar. So if it is going to be the way it is then moisture won’t be that be effective. The pitch will dry out and spinners will start getting purchase and both are spinners are of good quality,” he added. The spin duo has featured only once together in an overseas Test for Team India, which was played in 2014. Ravindra Jadeja has proved his worth with not only the bowl but also with the bat. “Jadeja’s recent form with the bat has been exceptional. He has worked on his batting a lot. He gives you an extra option of having another bowler. The confidence of scoring runs has rubbed off on his bowling.” Ashwin too has been prolific in with the bowl. The spinner has 14 scalps in six Test matches played in England. “Ashwin is a class act. Ashwin has improved a lot and he can now get you wickets on any track, which was not the case when he first started touring overseas. He never used to give you the feeling that he was going for wickets. He didn’t have the belief. But now, with the experience he is a different bowler,” he said. “We’ve seen how Ashwin bowls on Indian pitches. He has got to have that approach. When he bowls his aim should always be to get wickets. I have never had any doubt in my mind that he will give you wickets even on foreign soils. It depends on the team management. On Kohli and Shastri... How they keep motivating him. They've got to tell him 'you are going to get wickets for us.' Ravi Shastri has been brilliant in managing the players so far. He’ll have to go the extra mile if they want to win this WTC title. “At this level cricketers hardly need advice. It’s that slight push. That believe that you are going to wickets even on foreign soil has to be there,” he signed off.

Cricket: Maninder Singh wants Ashwin and Jadeja to play together in WTC finals

India had a memorable series in Australia. Team India, without a majority of its stars, took on the mighty Australians and beat them in their own country. Several young players like Mohammed Siraj, Rishabh Pant, and others stepped up in the absence of Virat Kohli, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammad Shami and Jasprit Bumrah.&nbsp;

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Siraj was exceptional in the series, he was quick to fill in Bumrah's shoes and scalped some major wickets for Team India. The young gun ended up becoming the highest wicket-taker&nbsp;for India in the series.&nbsp;

Mohammed Siraj suffered a major blow during his tour to Australia. The bowler lost his father while he was quarantining in Australia ahead of the series. He decided to stay back to fulfil his father’s wish of playing for India.

Siraj revealed the conversation he had with Ravi Shastri after his father passed away.&nbsp;

“Virat Bhai is always there. When I couldn’t perform well in the IPL two years back, he showed faith in my ability. He retained me in RCB and I am grateful for this,” said Siraj.

“When I lost my father during the Australia tour, both Ravi sir and bowling coach Bharat Arun sir were so suuportive. Ravi sir came to me and told, tu test match khel, dekh tereko 5 wickets milega. Tere Daddy ka dua tera saath hoga (You play the test match. You will get 5 wickets as your father’s blessings will be with you). Match ke baad Ravi sir ne bahut khus hokar bola, tujhe bola tha na 5 wickets milega (I told that you will be getting five wickets). I became very confident after my coaches encouraged me in such a way,” Siraj told ABP news.

India had a memorable series in Australia. Team India, without a majority of its stars, took on the mighty Australians and beat them in their own country. Several young players like Mohammed Siraj, Rishabh Pant, and others stepped up in the absence of Virat Kohli, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammad Shami and Jasprit Bumrah.

India had a memorable series in Australia. Team India, without a majority of its stars, took on the mighty Australians and beat them in their own country. Several young players like Mohammed Siraj, Rishabh Pant, and others stepped up in the absence of Virat Kohli, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammad Shami and Jasprit Bumrah. ALSO READ: Cricket: New Zealand's Conway marks Test debut with Lord's hundred Siraj was exceptional in the series, he was quick to fill in Bumrah's shoes and scalped some major wickets for Team India. The young gun ended up becoming the highest wicket-taker for India in the series. Mohammed Siraj suffered a major blow during his tour to Australia. The bowler lost his father while he was quarantining in Australia ahead of the series. He decided to stay back to fulfil his father’s wish of playing for India. Siraj revealed the conversation he had with Ravi Shastri after his father passed away. “Virat Bhai is always there. When I couldn’t perform well in the IPL two years back, he showed faith in my ability. He retained me in RCB and I am grateful for this,” said Siraj. “When I lost my father during the Australia tour, both Ravi sir and bowling coach Bharat Arun sir were so suuportive. Ravi sir came to me and told, tu test match khel, dekh tereko 5 wickets milega. Tere Daddy ka dua tera saath hoga (You play the test match. You will get 5 wickets as your father’s blessings will be with you). Match ke baad Ravi sir ne bahut khus hokar bola, tujhe bola tha na 5 wickets milega (I told that you will be getting five wickets). I became very confident after my coaches encouraged me in such a way,” Siraj told ABP news.

Cricket: 'Sir came to me': Mohammed Siraj reveals his conversation with Ravi Shastri after his father's death

Indian head coach Ravi Shastri on Wednesday said that two Indian squads travelling to different venues at the same time for two different series could become a norm in the draining world of bio-secure bubbles wherein the cricketers are forced to live amid COVID-19 pandemic.<o:p></o:p>

“Playing with two squads in different locations regularly is a possibility in the long run,” Shastri said in the pre-departure press conference.<o:p></o:p>

The Virat Kohli-led Indian team is set to depart for their tour of the UK where they will play the ICC World Test Championship final before locking horns with England for a five-Test series. At the same time, the second-string Indian team will play Sri Lanka in a limited-overs series in July. <o:p></o:p>

However, Shastri said that playing two different teams could also help T20 cricket to spread across the globe.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/very-difficult-to-stay-motivated-skipper-virat-kohli-on-mental-wellbeing-of-players-ahead-of-wtc-finals-389022" hreflang="en">'Very difficult to stay motivated': Skipper Virat Kohli on mental-wellbeing of players ahead of WTC finals</a>

<o:p></o:p>

"Well you never know. At the moment it's happening because of the current situation and restriction in travel and things of that sort. But you never know. In the future if you want to expand the game, especially in the shorter of formats, then it could be the way to go,” said Shastri.<o:p></o:p>

"You know, why not, when you have that much volume of cricketers and if you want to spread the T20 game, across the globe, then that could be the way ahead because if you're talking of Olympics in four years or eight years'' time, you need more countries to play the game. So that could be a way forward," he added.<o:p></o:p>

Furthermore, captain Virat Kohli also echoed Shastri’s opinion as he said that playing regular cricket with quarantine and bio-bubble restriction in place, is a tough ask on players as it is difficult for them to stay motivated and find the right kind of mental space.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-world-test-championship-final-will-be-challenging-but-its-time-to-enjoy-virat-kohli-389017" hreflang="en">Cricket: World Test Championship Final will be challenging but it's time to enjoy - Virat Kohli</a><o:p></o:p>

"With the current structure and the kind of structure that you're competing inside for a long period of time, it's very difficult for the players to stay motivated and find the right kind of mental space," said Kohli.<o:p></o:p>

"You know just confined in one area and just doing the stuff, day in day out when you're dealing with high pressure situations. So, this (two squads) will definitely become a norm for the future," he added.<o:p></o:p>

The final of World Test Championship between India and New Zealand is set to be played in Southampton from June 18.<o:p></o:p>

Indian head coach Ravi Shastri on Wednesday said that two Indian squads travelling to different venues at the same time for two different series could become a norm in the draining world of bio-secure bubbles wherein the cricketers are forced to live amid COVID-19 pandemic.

Indian head coach Ravi Shastri on Wednesday said that two Indian squads travelling to different venues at the same time for two different series could become a norm in the draining world of bio-secure bubbles wherein the cricketers are forced to live amid COVID-19 pandemic. “Playing with two squads in different locations regularly is a possibility in the long run,” Shastri said in the pre-departure press conference. The Virat Kohli-led Indian team is set to depart for their tour of the UK where they will play the ICC World Test Championship final before locking horns with England for a five-Test series. At the same time, the second-string Indian team will play Sri Lanka in a limited-overs series in July. However, Shastri said that playing two different teams could also help T20 cricket to spread across the globe. ALSO READ: 'Very difficult to stay motivated': Skipper Virat Kohli on mental-wellbeing of players ahead of WTC finals "Well you never know. At the moment it's happening because of the current situation and restriction in travel and things of that sort. But you never know. In the future if you want to expand the game, especially in the shorter of formats, then it could be the way to go,” said Shastri. "You know, why not, when you have that much volume of cricketers and if you want to spread the T20 game, across the globe, then that could be the way ahead because if you're talking of Olympics in four years or eight years'' time, you need more countries to play the game. So that could be a way forward," he added. Furthermore, captain Virat Kohli also echoed Shastri’s opinion as he said that playing regular cricket with quarantine and bio-bubble restriction in place, is a tough ask on players as it is difficult for them to stay motivated and find the right kind of mental space. ALSO READ: Cricket: World Test Championship Final will be challenging but it's time to enjoy - Virat Kohli "With the current structure and the kind of structure that you're competing inside for a long period of time, it's very difficult for the players to stay motivated and find the right kind of mental space," said Kohli. "You know just confined in one area and just doing the stuff, day in day out when you're dealing with high pressure situations. So, this (two squads) will definitely become a norm for the future," he added. The final of World Test Championship between India and New Zealand is set to be played in Southampton from June 18.

Cricket: Two Indian team playing different formats the way forward, opines Ravi Shastri

India head coach Ravi Shastri on Wednesday said that the ICC World Test Championship should have been a best of three contest going forward and not a one-off match like the upcoming India versus New Zealand match in the inaugural edition of the tournament. India depart for the UK in the early hours of Thursday to participate in the WTC against the Black Caps in Southampton, scheduled to start from June 18. <o:p></o:p>

The Virat Kohli-led outfit would go on to play five matches against England starting August 4. <o:p></o:p>

"I think ideally, in the long run, if they want to pursue with this Test championship, best of three final would be ideal. A three-match series as a culmination of two and a half years of cricket," Shastri said in the pre-departure press conference. <o:p></o:p>

"But they need to finish off the Future Tours Program (FTP) and then start all over again. So one-off is one-off, guys have earned their stripes, and this is not a team that is suddenly blossomed overnight." <o:p></o:p>

India have already completed a 14-day quarantine in India before flying to the UK whereas New Zealand are getting match practice with the two-match series against England before the WTC final.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-james-anderson-equalises-alastair-cooks-record-of-most-england-test-caps-388971" hreflang="en">Cricket: James Anderson equalises Alastair Cook's record of most England Test caps</a>

Shastri said that that the WTC final is going to be the biggest if not the biggest as it is being played in the toughest format of the game.<o:p></o:p>

India fly to the UK after a 14-day quarantine while New Zealand are already getting valuable practice with the two-match series underway against England. Shastri said the WTC final is a massive game. <o:p></o:p>

"See, it is the first time that you have a Test Championship final. When you look at the magnitude of the game that's going to be played, I think this is the biggest, if not the biggest ever, because it's the toughest form of the game. <o:p></o:p>

"It's a format that tests you. It's not happened over three days or three months, it's happened over two years, where teams have played each other around the world, and earned their stripes to play the finals so it's one heck of an event."<o:p></o:p>

India head coach Ravi Shastri on Wednesday said that the ICC World Test Championship should have been a best of three contest going forward and not a one-off match like the upcoming India versus New Zealand match in the inaugural edition of the tournament.

India head coach Ravi Shastri on Wednesday said that the ICC World Test Championship should have been a best of three contest going forward and not a one-off match like the upcoming India versus New Zealand match in the inaugural edition of the tournament. India depart for the UK in the early hours of Thursday to participate in the WTC against the Black Caps in Southampton, scheduled to start from June 18. The Virat Kohli-led outfit would go on to play five matches against England starting August 4. "I think ideally, in the long run, if they want to pursue with this Test championship, best of three final would be ideal. A three-match series as a culmination of two and a half years of cricket," Shastri said in the pre-departure press conference. "But they need to finish off the Future Tours Program (FTP) and then start all over again. So one-off is one-off, guys have earned their stripes, and this is not a team that is suddenly blossomed overnight." India have already completed a 14-day quarantine in India before flying to the UK whereas New Zealand are getting match practice with the two-match series against England before the WTC final. ALSO READ: Cricket: James Anderson equalises Alastair Cook's record of most England Test caps Shastri said that that the WTC final is going to be the biggest if not the biggest as it is being played in the toughest format of the game. India fly to the UK after a 14-day quarantine while New Zealand are already getting valuable practice with the two-match series underway against England. Shastri said the WTC final is a massive game. "See, it is the first time that you have a Test Championship final. When you look at the magnitude of the game that's going to be played, I think this is the biggest, if not the biggest ever, because it's the toughest form of the game. "It's a format that tests you. It's not happened over three days or three months, it's happened over two years, where teams have played each other around the world, and earned their stripes to play the finals so it's one heck of an event."

Cricket: 'Best of three final would be ideal' - Ravi Shastri opines on WTC Final format

Umesh Yadav commended the effect of Ravi Shastri and captain Virat Kohli and adulated them for giving the players an unrestrained choice to communicate and play their game.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-world-test-championship-finals-is-like-a-world-cup-final-for-me-says-umesh-yadav-386450" hreflang="en">'WTC final is like a World Cup final for me': Umesh Yadav</a>

Team India have seen an unfathomable ascent, particularly in the longest format of the game, where they have made the last of the debut ICC World Test Championship. Umesh Yadav gave the heft of the credit to the pair of Virat Kohli and Ravi Shastri, who has acquired the group 'in sync'.&nbsp;

In an interview with ANI Umesh Yadav said: "Virat and Ravi bhai have worked really hard. The way Virat has captained and handled the team, the freedom and confidence that the captain and coach have given to the team keeps a lot of weightage because as a bowler or a batsman when you can play at your free will and freedom you definitely perform so much better,"&nbsp; 
Umesh Yadav pointed out the kinship and the solidarity among the players which has made them an all-around oiled unit.&nbsp;

"When the team steps down on the ground, there is a kind of aggression, a feeling of backup and support. All 11 players are in sync with each other. So, coaches and captain deserve the credit for that. The players are very comfortable, there is a team spirit and good environment."

Many are regarding England as the last wilderness for India. Umesh Yadav said there has consistently been an outlook in the group to do well across all conditions. The quick bowler says the team has been progressing nicely in the course of the most recent five years.&nbsp;

"When you start playing you always think that no matter what the situation is, you should know how to win even in the toughest of conditions. I feel that winning against strong teams like England and Australia have been a good journey. So you get a feeling of satisfaction and you know that your team is headed in a good direction and I feel India has been doing so for the last 5 years," the fast-bowler added.

Umesh Yadav also highlighted the importance of bowling with patience and discipline, even though English conditions often suit fast bowlers.

"A lot of times, when we start bowling, the sun comes over and it gets dry in England due to the sun. So, the ball doesn't do enough movement then. When it's cloudy, then the ball also swings well. So, if we throw the ball in our control and in our discipline while playing in England, then that's the best otherwise it is difficult. So, to bowl with patience and discipline will be very important."

Umesh Yadav last played for India in the second Test against Australia in Melbourne, where he endured a calf injury. He&nbsp;is presently back to full wellness and will hope to make his imprint whenever offered a chance in the World Test Championship finale against New Zealand. 
&nbsp;

Umesh Yadav commended the effect of Ravi Shastri and captain Virat Kohli and adulated them for giving the players an unrestrained choice to communicate and play their game.

Umesh Yadav commended the effect of Ravi Shastri and captain Virat Kohli and adulated them for giving the players an unrestrained choice to communicate and play their game. ALSO READ: 'WTC final is like a World Cup final for me': Umesh Yadav Team India have seen an unfathomable ascent, particularly in the longest format of the game, where they have made the last of the debut ICC World Test Championship. Umesh Yadav gave the heft of the credit to the pair of Virat Kohli and Ravi Shastri, who has acquired the group 'in sync'. In an interview with ANI Umesh Yadav said: "Virat and Ravi bhai have worked really hard. The way Virat has captained and handled the team, the freedom and confidence that the captain and coach have given to the team keeps a lot of weightage because as a bowler or a batsman when you can play at your free will and freedom you definitely perform so much better," Umesh Yadav pointed out the kinship and the solidarity among the players which has made them an all-around oiled unit. "When the team steps down on the ground, there is a kind of aggression, a feeling of backup and support. All 11 players are in sync with each other. So, coaches and captain deserve the credit for that. The players are very comfortable, there is a team spirit and good environment." Many are regarding England as the last wilderness for India. Umesh Yadav said there has consistently been an outlook in the group to do well across all conditions. The quick bowler says the team has been progressing nicely in the course of the most recent five years. "When you start playing you always think that no matter what the situation is, you should know how to win even in the toughest of conditions. I feel that winning against strong teams like England and Australia have been a good journey. So you get a feeling of satisfaction and you know that your team is headed in a good direction and I feel India has been doing so for the last 5 years," the fast-bowler added. Umesh Yadav also highlighted the importance of bowling with patience and discipline, even though English conditions often suit fast bowlers. "A lot of times, when we start bowling, the sun comes over and it gets dry in England due to the sun. So, the ball doesn't do enough movement then. When it's cloudy, then the ball also swings well. So, if we throw the ball in our control and in our discipline while playing in England, then that's the best otherwise it is difficult. So, to bowl with patience and discipline will be very important." Umesh Yadav last played for India in the second Test against Australia in Melbourne, where he endured a calf injury. He is presently back to full wellness and will hope to make his imprint whenever offered a chance in the World Test Championship finale against New Zealand.

Cricket: 'Virat and Ravi bhai have worked really hard': Umesh Yadav ahead of the WTC finale

Team India have dominated the Test rankings for the past five years. Virat and Co. under head coach Ravi Shastri are ranked number one for five straight years.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/official-ramesh-powar-appointed-head-coach-of-indian-womens-cricket-team-384783" hreflang="en">Official: Ramesh Powar appointed head coach of Indian women’s cricket team</a>

India ended on the top of the World Test Championship points table despite a change in rule by the International Cricket Council (ICC) in 2020 that dampened Virat and Co.'s hopes to qualify for the finals. However, Team India fought back and defeated Australia in an away series and dominated England at home to book the final berth and will now face New Zealand for the inaugural title clash.&nbsp;

Team India's head coach Ravi Shastri took to Twitter and said that his side overcame all the hurdles to become the number one team in Test cricket. He said: "This team has shown steely resolve &amp; unwavering focus to be crowned No. 1. It is something the boys have earned fair &amp; square. Rules changed midway but #TeamIndia overcame every hurdle along the way. My boys played tough cricket in tough times. Super proud of this bindass bunch."

Ahead of the much-awaited England tour, where Team India will not only play the final of the ICC World Test Championship but also a five-match Test series against England, the Indian players have been asked to enter the bio-secure bubble on May 19 in Mumbai.

The Indian players, part of the three-and-a-half-month-long tour to the UK, have been asked to regroup in Mumbai on May 19 and enter a 10-day quarantine period.

<h2 style="margin-top:0px; margin-bottom:10px; text-align:start; -webkit-text-stroke-width:0px">India Squad for WTC final vs New Zealand, and five-match Test Series vs England</h2>

India’s squad:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (Captain), Ajinkya Rahane (vice-captain), Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), R. Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, Mohd. Shami, Md. Siraj, Shardul Thakur, Umesh Yadav, KL Rahul (subject to fitness clearance), Wriddhiman Saha (wicket-keeper; subject to fitness clearance).

Standby players: Abhimanyu Easwaran, Prasidh Krishna, Avesh Khan, Arzan Nagwaswalla

Team India have dominated the Test rankings for the past five years. Virat and Co. under head coach Ravi Shastri are ranked number one for five straight years. ALSO READ: Official: Ramesh Powar appointed head coach of Indian women’s cricket team India ended on the top of the World Test Championship points table despite a change in rule by the International Cricket Council (ICC) in 2020 that dampened Virat and Co.

Team India have dominated the Test rankings for the past five years. Virat and Co. under head coach Ravi Shastri are ranked number one for five straight years. ALSO READ: Official: Ramesh Powar appointed head coach of Indian women’s cricket team India ended on the top of the World Test Championship points table despite a change in rule by the International Cricket Council (ICC) in 2020 that dampened Virat and Co.'s hopes to qualify for the finals. However, Team India fought back and defeated Australia in an away series and dominated England at home to book the final berth and will now face New Zealand for the inaugural title clash. Team India's head coach Ravi Shastri took to Twitter and said that his side overcame all the hurdles to become the number one team in Test cricket. He said: "This team has shown steely resolve & unwavering focus to be crowned No. 1. It is something the boys have earned fair & square. Rules changed midway but #TeamIndia overcame every hurdle along the way. My boys played tough cricket in tough times. Super proud of this bindass bunch." Ahead of the much-awaited England tour, where Team India will not only play the final of the ICC World Test Championship but also a five-match Test series against England, the Indian players have been asked to enter the bio-secure bubble on May 19 in Mumbai. The Indian players, part of the three-and-a-half-month-long tour to the UK, have been asked to regroup in Mumbai on May 19 and enter a 10-day quarantine period. India Squad for WTC final vs New Zealand, and five-match Test Series vs England India’s squad: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (Captain), Ajinkya Rahane (vice-captain), Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), R. Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, Mohd. Shami, Md. Siraj, Shardul Thakur, Umesh Yadav, KL Rahul (subject to fitness clearance), Wriddhiman Saha (wicket-keeper; subject to fitness clearance). Standby players: Abhimanyu Easwaran, Prasidh Krishna, Avesh Khan, Arzan Nagwaswalla

'Overcame every hurdle': Ravi Shastri lauds Team India's dominance in Tests

Sunil Gavaskar has praised the effect Ravi Shastri has had on the Indian team. He marked India's head coach as an "incredible" coach with an "unbelievable" capacity to spur adolescents in any event, when everything is on the line.&nbsp;

Team India is presently overflowing with ability in all formats of the game. India displayed their humongous bench strength when they won the test series in Australia with a diminished side where various Indian adolescents punched well over their weight.&nbsp;

Sunil Gavaskar said there could be no more excellent man than Ravi Shastri to support growing ability.

"Ravi has got the ability to give so much confidence to youngsters, it's unbelievable if Ravi Shastri believes in their ability and talent, there is no better man than Ravi Shastri to give encouragement to&nbsp;youngsters. He will scold you, tell you off but at the same time, he will tell you what you can do to get better, he will actually demonstrate to you," Sunil Gavaskar said in a recent webinar during a book launch.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/didnt-know-how-to-face-my-teammates-andre-russell-on-staircase-moment-after-dismissal-vs-csk-379866" hreflang="en">Didn't know how to face my teammates: Andre Russell on staircase moment after dismissal vs CSK</a>

Ravi Shastri was appointed as the head coach in 2017 after Anil Kumble stepped down. Nonetheless, he has figured out how to prevail upon his faultfinders in the previous few years, and numerous specialists consider the current group as the best Indian side ever.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/starts-like-a-million-dollar-baby-but-goes-down-rapidly-samsons-form-leaves-gambhir-frustrated-379849" hreflang="en">'Starts like a million-dollar baby but goes down rapidly': Samson's form leaves Gambhir frustrated</a>

Sunil Gavaskar additionally spoke about the impact of bowling trainer Bharat Arun. Throughout the most recent couple of years, Team India has seen a great deal of ability come through in the quick bowling department, something that was truly a frail space in the past.

"You have Bharat, when you talk to some of the seam bowlers who did splendidly during the second half of the Australia tour, they are all full of praise for Bharat as to how he guided them. That's what these youngsters need to do. Spend as much time as possible with Ravi Shastri and Bharat Arun. There are no better persons than these two when you are having self-doubts." Sunil Gavaskar added. 
&nbsp;

Sunil Gavaskar has praised the effect Ravi Shastri has had on the Indian team. He marked India's head coach as an "incredible" coach with an "unbelievable" capacity to spur adolescents in any event, when everything is on the line.

Sunil Gavaskar has praised the effect Ravi Shastri has had on the Indian team. He marked India's head coach as an "incredible" coach with an "unbelievable" capacity to spur adolescents in any event, when everything is on the line. Team India is presently overflowing with ability in all formats of the game. India displayed their humongous bench strength when they won the test series in Australia with a diminished side where various Indian adolescents punched well over their weight. Sunil Gavaskar said there could be no more excellent man than Ravi Shastri to support growing ability. "Ravi has got the ability to give so much confidence to youngsters, it's unbelievable if Ravi Shastri believes in their ability and talent, there is no better man than Ravi Shastri to give encouragement to youngsters. He will scold you, tell you off but at the same time, he will tell you what you can do to get better, he will actually demonstrate to you," Sunil Gavaskar said in a recent webinar during a book launch. ALSO READ: Didn't know how to face my teammates: Andre Russell on staircase moment after dismissal vs CSK Ravi Shastri was appointed as the head coach in 2017 after Anil Kumble stepped down. Nonetheless, he has figured out how to prevail upon his faultfinders in the previous few years, and numerous specialists consider the current group as the best Indian side ever. ALSO READ: 'Starts like a million-dollar baby but goes down rapidly': Samson's form leaves Gambhir frustrated Sunil Gavaskar additionally spoke about the impact of bowling trainer Bharat Arun. Throughout the most recent couple of years, Team India has seen a great deal of ability come through in the quick bowling department, something that was truly a frail space in the past. "You have Bharat, when you talk to some of the seam bowlers who did splendidly during the second half of the Australia tour, they are all full of praise for Bharat as to how he guided them. That's what these youngsters need to do. Spend as much time as possible with Ravi Shastri and Bharat Arun. There are no better persons than these two when you are having self-doubts." Sunil Gavaskar added.

'It's unbelievable' - Sunil Gavaskar in awe of Ravi Shastri's man-management skills

It is a Master vs Apprentice showdown in the Indian Premier League 2021 as Rishabh Pant's Delhi Capitals will take on MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings in the second match of the tournament at the Wankhede Stadium on Saturday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indiranagarkagunda-rahul-dravids-angry-avatar-takes-twitter-by-storm-check-best-reactions-376624" hreflang="en">#IndiraNagarKaGunda: Rahul Dravid's 'angry' avatar takes Twitter by storm - Check best reactions</a>&nbsp;

Team India head coach Ravi Shastri is excited for the match and took to Twitter and wrote: "Guru vs Chela. Bahot Maza aayega aaj (it'll be great fun tonight). Stump Mic suniyega zaroor (do listen to the stump mic) #DhoniReturns #Pant #IPL2021 #DCvsCSK - @ChennaiIPL @DelhiCapitals".

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Guru vs Chela. Bahot Maza aayega aaj. Stump Mic suniyega zaroor <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DhoniReturns?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DhoniReturns</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pant?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pant</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2021</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DCvsCSK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DCvsCSK</a> - <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChennaiIPL</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiCapitals?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DelhiCapitals</a> <a href="https://t.co/ilHkunwrBB">pic.twitter.com/ilHkunwrBB</a>
— Ravi Shastri (@RaviShastriOfc) <a href="https://twitter.com/RaviShastriOfc/status/1380784761484976128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 10, 2021</a></blockquote>
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MS Dhoni and Rishabh Pant have been very vocal behind the stumps guiding the bowlers to bowl the right length.&nbsp;

While Chennai Super Kings failed to qualify for the playoffs for the first time in IPL history in the 2020 edition, Delhi Capitals emerged as runners-up after losing the IPL 2020 final to Mumbai Indians.

The Delhi Capitals Captain Rishabh Pant expressed that it will be very special for him to lead an IPL team for the first time in a match against MS Dhoni's side, "It will be extra special to walk out for the toss with MS Dhoni tomorrow. This will be the first time that I will be leading an IPL team and the first match is against Mahi bhai. I have learned a lot from him, and I have gained a lot of experience from him. Hopefully, I can use this experience against him, and we can win this match. That's what I am looking forward to."

Pant added that the Delhi Capitals squad, for the IPL 2021, has a great mix of experience and youth, "I have been talking to the senior players like Shikhar Dhawan, Ravichandran Ashwin and Ajinkya Rahane about the fields we can set and other strategic decisions for the team. I have been talking to Ricky and our Bowling Coach James Hopes as well. There's a good mix of seniors and juniors in our squad and I think with the help of Ricky, we can do something different this year."

It is a Master vs Apprentice showdown in the Indian Premier League 2021 as Rishabh Pant's Delhi Capitals will take on MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings in the second match of the tournament at the Wankhede Stadium on Saturday.

It is a Master vs Apprentice showdown in the Indian Premier League 2021 as Rishabh Pant's Delhi Capitals will take on MS Dhoni's Chennai Super Kings in the second match of the tournament at the Wankhede Stadium on Saturday. ALSO READ: #IndiraNagarKaGunda: Rahul Dravid's 'angry' avatar takes Twitter by storm - Check best reactions Team India head coach Ravi Shastri is excited for the match and took to Twitter and wrote: "Guru vs Chela. Bahot Maza aayega aaj (it'll be great fun tonight). Stump Mic suniyega zaroor (do listen to the stump mic) #DhoniReturns #Pant #IPL2021 #DCvsCSK - @ChennaiIPL @DelhiCapitals". Guru vs Chela. Bahot Maza aayega aaj. Stump Mic suniyega zaroor #DhoniReturns #Pant #IPL2021 #DCvsCSK - @ChennaiIPL @DelhiCapitals pic.twitter.com/ilHkunwrBB — Ravi Shastri (@RaviShastriOfc) April 10, 2021 × MS Dhoni and Rishabh Pant have been very vocal behind the stumps guiding the bowlers to bowl the right length. While Chennai Super Kings failed to qualify for the playoffs for the first time in IPL history in the 2020 edition, Delhi Capitals emerged as runners-up after losing the IPL 2020 final to Mumbai Indians. The Delhi Capitals Captain Rishabh Pant expressed that it will be very special for him to lead an IPL team for the first time in a match against MS Dhoni's side, "It will be extra special to walk out for the toss with MS Dhoni tomorrow. This will be the first time that I will be leading an IPL team and the first match is against Mahi bhai. I have learned a lot from him, and I have gained a lot of experience from him. Hopefully, I can use this experience against him, and we can win this match. That's what I am looking forward to." Pant added that the Delhi Capitals squad, for the IPL 2021, has a great mix of experience and youth, "I have been talking to the senior players like Shikhar Dhawan, Ravichandran Ashwin and Ajinkya Rahane about the fields we can set and other strategic decisions for the team. I have been talking to Ricky and our Bowling Coach James Hopes as well. There's a good mix of seniors and juniors in our squad and I think with the help of Ricky, we can do something different this year."

'Guru vs Chela': Ravi Shastri expresses his excitement for Dhoni vs Pant clash in IPL 2021

From Garfield Sobers, Yuvraj Singh to Thisara Perera: Men who blasted six sixes in an over

Indian head coach Ravi Shastri on Sunday said that his team had to dig deep in a bid to qualify for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final due to the rules getting changed between into the tournament due to the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Owing to the COVID-19 disruption, the qualification scenario in ICC WTC was changed midway. The change stated that teams with better percentage points in the WTC points table will qualify and not the teams with the most&nbsp;number of points. India finished atop the WTC standings with 72.2 percentage points followed by New Zealand who have 70 percentage points as the two&nbsp;teams&nbsp;set-up a mouthwatering clash in the final of WTC.&nbsp;

"I am not worried about the next WTC&nbsp;cycle,&nbsp;I am thinking of the first cycle. If you ask me about the problems in the first cycle, please do not shift the goalpost. I am sitting at home during Covid-19, right in the month of October-November. You have got more points than any other team in the world. 360 at that time, suddenly, a week later without playing any cricket, there is a rule that comes stating that the points would be decided on the percentage system and go from number one to three. Fine, that's because of countries not wanting to travel, all acceptable and fine,” said Shastri during a virtual press conference on Sunday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-banter-ravi-shastri-reacts-to-viral-memes-around-him-on-social-media-368581" hreflang="en">It's banter!: Ravi Shastri reacts to viral memes around him on social media</a>

"I want to understand the logic behind this, what is the way forward for me? I have to go to Australia, sitting comfortably at the top spot, leading by 60-70 points. They say you have to go to&nbsp;Australia,&nbsp;you have to beat Australia. How many teams in the last ten years can say with guarantee that we will beat Australia? The reason I am saying this, you are sitting at the top of the table, percentage system, you have to go to Australia and beat Australia. If you do not beat Australia, you come back home and beat England 4-0, you get close to 500 points and you still do not qualify. We have had to dig&nbsp;deep,&nbsp;we have had to go down every hole that is needed to find water. Do not ask me about the next cycle, first, let's finish this cycle," he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Plenty of youngsters got their hands on the Indian Test cap with the likes of Washington Sundar, T Natarajan,&nbsp;Axar&nbsp;Patel bagging their debuts in the longest format of the game, starting from the series against&nbsp;Australia.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-schedule-announced-narendra-modi-stadium-to-host-playoffs-and-final-check-full-fixtures-368587" hreflang="en">IPL 2021 schedule announced: Narendra Modi Stadium to host playoffs and final - check full fixtures</a>

Speaking about the big squads that were picked because of Covid-19 and quarantine protocols, Shastri said: "This is the most positive thing to come out of this bubble because of the bubble, you had to go with large squads. Because of the bubbles and quarantine rules, you had to go with 25-30 players. As a result, you had to dig deep and pick your best 30 players and as luck would have it, we had no choice to play every member. You found out who is good and who is not. It is a good headache to have and it is something that has worked well. If you said Natarajan would play a Test match, you would have said no way. Even Washington Sundar, you would have said no way. These are things you would not imagine but circumstances make it happen. I am glad the youngsters who got the opportunity cracked it open."&nbsp;

The final of ICC WTC is slated to be held on June 18-22 in England.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Indian head coach Ravi Shastri on Sunday said that his team had to dig deep in a bid to qualify for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final due to the rules getting changed between into the tournament due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Indian head coach Ravi Shastri on Sunday said that his team had to dig deep in a bid to qualify for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final due to the rules getting changed between into the tournament due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Owing to the COVID-19 disruption, the qualification scenario in ICC WTC was changed midway. The change stated that teams with better percentage points in the WTC points table will qualify and not the teams with the most number of points. India finished atop the WTC standings with 72.2 percentage points followed by New Zealand who have 70 percentage points as the two teams set-up a mouthwatering clash in the final of WTC. "I am not worried about the next WTC cycle, I am thinking of the first cycle. If you ask me about the problems in the first cycle, please do not shift the goalpost. I am sitting at home during Covid-19, right in the month of October-November. You have got more points than any other team in the world. 360 at that time, suddenly, a week later without playing any cricket, there is a rule that comes stating that the points would be decided on the percentage system and go from number one to three. Fine, that's because of countries not wanting to travel, all acceptable and fine,” said Shastri during a virtual press conference on Sunday. ALSO READ: It's banter!: Ravi Shastri reacts to viral memes around him on social media "I want to understand the logic behind this, what is the way forward for me? I have to go to Australia, sitting comfortably at the top spot, leading by 60-70 points. They say you have to go to Australia, you have to beat Australia. How many teams in the last ten years can say with guarantee that we will beat Australia? The reason I am saying this, you are sitting at the top of the table, percentage system, you have to go to Australia and beat Australia. If you do not beat Australia, you come back home and beat England 4-0, you get close to 500 points and you still do not qualify. We have had to dig deep, we have had to go down every hole that is needed to find water. Do not ask me about the next cycle, first, let's finish this cycle," he added. Plenty of youngsters got their hands on the Indian Test cap with the likes of Washington Sundar, T Natarajan, Axar Patel bagging their debuts in the longest format of the game, starting from the series against Australia. ALSO READ: IPL 2021 schedule announced: Narendra Modi Stadium to host playoffs and final - check full fixtures Speaking about the big squads that were picked because of Covid-19 and quarantine protocols, Shastri said: "This is the most positive thing to come out of this bubble because of the bubble, you had to go with large squads. Because of the bubbles and quarantine rules, you had to go with 25-30 players. As a result, you had to dig deep and pick your best 30 players and as luck would have it, we had no choice to play every member. You found out who is good and who is not. It is a good headache to have and it is something that has worked well. If you said Natarajan would play a Test match, you would have said no way. Even Washington Sundar, you would have said no way. These are things you would not imagine but circumstances make it happen. I am glad the youngsters who got the opportunity cracked it open." The final of ICC WTC is slated to be held on June 18-22 in England.

Had to dig deep to find water: Ravi Shastri on road to World Test Championship final

Ravi Shastri on Sunday addressed a press conference following India's 3-1 Test series win over England as Virat Kohli and Co qualify for the final of ICC World Test Championship.&nbsp;The head coach of the Indian cricket team was asked how he deals with viral memes on the internet and criticism offered by social media users.&nbsp;&nbsp;

For viral meme-creators, Shastri's flamboyant personality has been a go-to subject. From making memes on Shastri's love for a drink to even hammering him when India&nbsp;lose&nbsp;a match, memes on Shastri are all over the social media whenever Team India plays a match.&nbsp;

Giving his opinion on memes and criticism, Shastri said it's pure banter and he never takes it seriously. The former Indian all-rounder said&nbsp;that if people are laughing at his expense, then he's fine with it&nbsp;while adding who seriously cares whether he is having lemonade or honey water.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-new-zealand-southampton-leads-race-to-host-icc-world-test-championship-final-368557" hreflang="en">India vs New Zealand: Southampton leads race to host ICC World Test Championship final</a>

Talking about the critics, Shastri made it clear that it will be always based around performances as he said that if you do well then fans will praise you and if you don't, then criticism will always be there.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"It's banter, it's at my expense, I'll have a laugh. I'll have lemonade or&nbsp;honey,&nbsp;you have a laugh at my expense. You have fun, enjoy. Have a drink on my name,” Shastri told reporters in a virtual press-conference on Sunday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ind-vs-eng-rishabh-pants-magnificent-century-against-jimmy-anderson-and-co-368226" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG: Rishabh Pant's magnificent century against Jimmy Anderson and Co.</a>

The Indian team, with the 3-1 Test series in against England, qualified for the WTC final where they will take on New Zealand. Shastri said he is mighty proud of his team that too while staying inside bio-bubbles for so long.&nbsp;

"I cannot say how proud of I am of my Indian cricket team. To qualify for the ICC World Test Championship after everything they went through is incredible. This team takes pride in winning. This team doesn't mind losing as long as it throws its punches."&nbsp;

Ravi Shastri on Sunday addressed a press conference following India's 3-1 Test series win over England as Virat Kohli and Co qualify for the final of ICC World Test Championship.

Ravi Shastri on Sunday addressed a press conference following India's 3-1 Test series win over England as Virat Kohli and Co qualify for the final of ICC World Test Championship. The head coach of the Indian cricket team was asked how he deals with viral memes on the internet and criticism offered by social media users. For viral meme-creators, Shastri's flamboyant personality has been a go-to subject. From making memes on Shastri's love for a drink to even hammering him when India lose a match, memes on Shastri are all over the social media whenever Team India plays a match. Giving his opinion on memes and criticism, Shastri said it's pure banter and he never takes it seriously. The former Indian all-rounder said that if people are laughing at his expense, then he's fine with it while adding who seriously cares whether he is having lemonade or honey water. ALSO READ: India vs New Zealand: Southampton leads race to host ICC World Test Championship final Talking about the critics, Shastri made it clear that it will be always based around performances as he said that if you do well then fans will praise you and if you don't, then criticism will always be there. "It's banter, it's at my expense, I'll have a laugh. I'll have lemonade or honey, you have a laugh at my expense. You have fun, enjoy. Have a drink on my name,” Shastri told reporters in a virtual press-conference on Sunday. ALSO READ: IND vs ENG: Rishabh Pant's magnificent century against Jimmy Anderson and Co. The Indian team, with the 3-1 Test series in against England, qualified for the WTC final where they will take on New Zealand. Shastri said he is mighty proud of his team that too while staying inside bio-bubbles for so long. "I cannot say how proud of I am of my Indian cricket team. To qualify for the ICC World Test Championship after everything they went through is incredible. This team takes pride in winning. This team doesn't mind losing as long as it throws its punches."

It's banter!: Ravi Shastri reacts to viral memes around him on social media

Team India's head coach Ravi Shastri received his first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. Former India player took to Twitter to share the image of him receiving the first dose.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-becomes-first-indian-celebrity-to-have-100-million-followers-on-instagram-367305" hreflang="en">Virat Kohli becomes first Indian celebrity to have 100 million followers on Instagram</a>

"Got the first dose of COVID-19 vaccine. Thank you to the amazing medical professionals &amp; scientists for empowering India against the pandemic," Shastri tweeted along with a photo of him getting the vaccination shot.&nbsp;

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Got the first dose of COVID-19 vaccine. Thank you to the amazing medical professionals &amp; scientists for empowering India 🇮🇳 against the pandemic. 
 
Extremely impressed with the professionalism shown by Kantaben &amp; her team at Apollo, Ahmedabad in dealing with COVID-19 vaccination <a href="https://t.co/EI29kMdoDF">pic.twitter.com/EI29kMdoDF</a>
— Ravi Shastri (@RaviShastriOfc) <a href="https://twitter.com/RaviShastriOfc/status/1366607709110489089?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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"Extremely impressed with the professionalism shown by Kantaben &amp; her team at Apollo, Ahmedabad in dealing with COVID-19 vaccination," the former India all-rounder added.

Health authorities in India's national capital are set for the roll-out of the second phase of the inoculation drive amid a decline in COVID-19 cases witnessed in the last two months.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/Narendra-Modi-first-dose-coronavirus-take-the-vaccine-pm-modi-takes-first-dose-of-coronavirus-vaccine-at-aiims-delhi-366946" hreflang="en">'Take the vaccine': PM Modi takes first dose of coronavirus vaccine at AIIMS, Delhi</a>

Over 13,000 beneficiaries had received the COVID-19 vaccine on Friday, the health department said with over 3.6 lakh beneficiaries have received the vaccine since the inoculation drive began a month ago in Delhi.

Health officials said although vaccination will be free at government centres in the capital, a set charge with a cap of Rs 250 per dose could be taken by private facilities.

Under the nationwide vaccination drive launched on January 16, a total of 4,319 health workers were administered the shots at 81 centres across Delhi on the first day.

Team India's head coach Ravi Shastri received his first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. Former India player took to Twitter to share the image of him receiving the first dose.

Team India's head coach Ravi Shastri received his first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. Former India player took to Twitter to share the image of him receiving the first dose. ALSO READ: Virat Kohli becomes first Indian celebrity to have 100 million followers on Instagram "Got the first dose of COVID-19 vaccine. Thank you to the amazing medical professionals & scientists for empowering India against the pandemic," Shastri tweeted along with a photo of him getting the vaccination shot. Got the first dose of COVID-19 vaccine. Thank you to the amazing medical professionals & scientists for empowering India 🇮🇳 against the pandemic. Extremely impressed with the professionalism shown by Kantaben & her team at Apollo, Ahmedabad in dealing with COVID-19 vaccination pic.twitter.com/EI29kMdoDF — Ravi Shastri (@RaviShastriOfc) March 2, 2021 × "Extremely impressed with the professionalism shown by Kantaben & her team at Apollo, Ahmedabad in dealing with COVID-19 vaccination," the former India all-rounder added. Health authorities in India's national capital are set for the roll-out of the second phase of the inoculation drive amid a decline in COVID-19 cases witnessed in the last two months. ALSO READ: 'Take the vaccine': PM Modi takes first dose of coronavirus vaccine at AIIMS, Delhi Over 13,000 beneficiaries had received the COVID-19 vaccine on Friday, the health department said with over 3.6 lakh beneficiaries have received the vaccine since the inoculation drive began a month ago in Delhi. Health officials said although vaccination will be free at government centres in the capital, a set charge with a cap of Rs 250 per dose could be taken by private facilities. Under the nationwide vaccination drive launched on January 16, a total of 4,319 health workers were administered the shots at 81 centres across Delhi on the first day.

'Empowering India against the pandemic': Ravi Shastri receives first jab of COVID-19 vaccine

Virat Kohli took over the reins as India's full-time Test captain in 2015, since then he had led the team 33 wins. These wins make him the most successful Test captain for India.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-skipper-joe-root-becomes-first-batsman-to-score-double-ton-in-100th-test-361769">England's Joe Root becomes first batsman to score double ton in 100th Test</a>

Team India's head coach Ravi Shastri, who has been managing the team since 2014, hailed Virat Kohli's evolution as the captain of the team.&nbsp;

“Just seeing the way he has evolved, you knew that there was an uncut diamond there when I took over in 2014, but just to see him evolve… It takes time, everything doesn’t happen in a hurry,” Shastri said on Star Sports show Cricket Live.

“You got to have the ups, the downs, you know, you got to feel the heat, you got to have your successes and failures, to be able to get up and move on in life. I think he has handled that beautifully and I’m sure he will handle fatherhood as well in that similar manner.”

Shastri went to talk about the busy 2021 and suggested a two-week-long break for their players post the upcoming IPL season.&nbsp;

"You know, this team takes, like I said, pride in performance. They take it one step at a time. Every game is important, every format is important, and you look at it in that way and we’ve got the volume of players. You know, at the moment, the bench strength is there to... for you to accommodate them, across formats," Shastri added.

"So, I think the hunger will be there, you’ll have to perform game after game, but I do believe, you need a break as well, from the international arena. So, I think, hopefully, after this series. Yes, they go into the IPL, but that’s a shorter format, but then again, after the IPL, I think, a couple of weeks off is a must. With these quarantines, these bubbles, it is mentally very, very draining. You're a human at the end of it all."

Virat Kohli took over the reins as India's full-time Test captain in 2015, since then he had led the team 33 wins. These wins make him the most successful Test captain for India.

Virat Kohli took over the reins as India's full-time Test captain in 2015, since then he had led the team 33 wins. These wins make him the most successful Test captain for India. ALSO READ: England's Joe Root becomes first batsman to score double ton in 100th Test Team India's head coach Ravi Shastri, who has been managing the team since 2014, hailed Virat Kohli's evolution as the captain of the team. “Just seeing the way he has evolved, you knew that there was an uncut diamond there when I took over in 2014, but just to see him evolve… It takes time, everything doesn’t happen in a hurry,” Shastri said on Star Sports show Cricket Live. “You got to have the ups, the downs, you know, you got to feel the heat, you got to have your successes and failures, to be able to get up and move on in life. I think he has handled that beautifully and I’m sure he will handle fatherhood as well in that similar manner.” Shastri went to talk about the busy 2021 and suggested a two-week-long break for their players post the upcoming IPL season. "You know, this team takes, like I said, pride in performance. They take it one step at a time. Every game is important, every format is important, and you look at it in that way and we’ve got the volume of players. You know, at the moment, the bench strength is there to... for you to accommodate them, across formats," Shastri added. "So, I think the hunger will be there, you’ll have to perform game after game, but I do believe, you need a break as well, from the international arena. So, I think, hopefully, after this series. Yes, they go into the IPL, but that’s a shorter format, but then again, after the IPL, I think, a couple of weeks off is a must. With these quarantines, these bubbles, it is mentally very, very draining. You're a human at the end of it all."

'Just seeing the way he has evolved': Ravi Shastri hails Virat Kohli as the captain

Team India's historic Test series win against Australia will be celebrated for ages.&nbsp;While the Ajinkya Rahane-led side won the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2-1,&nbsp;the Indian team had to face numerous challenges during the series including quarantine restrictions, injuries to key players among other things.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India started off the Test series with a humiliating defeat in Adelaide where the visitors were bundled off for a record-low of 36. However, showing great grit and resilience, the Indian team bounced back to win the Melbourne Test, draw Sydney Test and end the series by breaching Australia's fortress the Gabba.&nbsp;&nbsp;

While the wins in Melbourne and Gabba will be remembered for long, the heroic show in Sydney will never be forgotten by the Indian fans.&nbsp;

During a conversation with India's fielding coach R Sridhar, Ravichandran Ashwin, in his YouTube channel, revealed an interesting yet hilarious incident involving Shardul Thakur.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/my-father-is-a-farmer-and-all-our-life-we-are-taught-to-keep-trying-shardul-thakur-358521" hreflang="en">'My father is a farmer and all our life we are taught to keep trying': Shardul Thakur</a>

While Ravichandran Ashwin, with a sore back, and Hanuma Vihari, with a torn hamstring, were battling out to save the Sydney Test on Day 5, Indian team management sent bowling all-rounder Shardul Thakur to the ground to pass on a message for the duo in the middle.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{7ef9f08a-fbd3-4b68-8c68-1b58bd6abc08}{244}" paraid="984069920" >The full conversation between Ravichandran Ashwin and R Sridhar on Shardul Thakur conveying the message from the dressing room:</h2>

Ashwin: Already I was padded up and standing from the morning because of my back pain. And then suddenly there was talk of Jadeja batting. And then suddenly Shastri came and said 'Ash, go!' After I went in, there were multiple messages from Shastri. Take us through those.

Sridhar: At one end, the bounce was a bit uneven and you got hit. We were worried about two things - one, a batsman getting out. And two, if Ash was injured, there was only Ravi Shastri left to play! Lot of things at stake, so he sent a message through Shardul.

He called for Shardul and said 'go tell Ashwin that I told him to play Lyon and Vihari to play the pacers'.

Ashwin: We were oblivious to it. We were keeping on playing the same way, and Vihari came and said Ash I'm feeling a bit distracting, so let's rotate strike for a couple of overs. And we got a single. Vihari played off-spin, and after an over, he came and said I'm unable to move my feet! Somehow we survived.

Shardul came running in and said "they're talking a lot of things inside. But I won't tell you anything! You both are playing well, just continue!" We were wondering what kind of a message this is.

Sridhar: And we were thinking he conveyed the message to you guys! And then every ball became an event. You batted till tea, and then we started believing. We had 249 balls, and Shastri would say 'Shabash' after every ball.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/hanuma-vihari-talks-about-ravichandran-ashwins-struggles-during-the-sydney-test-358506" hreflang="en">Hanuma Vihari talks about Ravichandran Ashwin's struggles during the Sydney Test</a>

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Ashwin and Vihari, battling injuries, defied all the odds to remain unbeaten on Day 5 of the Sydney Test to help India draw the Test. Courtesy the drawn Sydney Test, the series remained at 1-1 which also gave a window to the Indian team to go for the kill in Brisbane as they won the&nbsp;Test series 2-1.&nbsp;

Team India's historic Test series win against Australia will be celebrated for ages. While the Ajinkya Rahane-led side won the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2-1, the Indian team had to face numerous challenges during the series including quarantine restrictions, injuries to key players among other things.

Team India's historic Test series win against Australia will be celebrated for ages. While the Ajinkya Rahane-led side won the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2-1, the Indian team had to face numerous challenges during the series including quarantine restrictions, injuries to key players among other things. India started off the Test series with a humiliating defeat in Adelaide where the visitors were bundled off for a record-low of 36. However, showing great grit and resilience, the Indian team bounced back to win the Melbourne Test, draw Sydney Test and end the series by breaching Australia's fortress the Gabba. While the wins in Melbourne and Gabba will be remembered for long, the heroic show in Sydney will never be forgotten by the Indian fans. During a conversation with India's fielding coach R Sridhar, Ravichandran Ashwin, in his YouTube channel, revealed an interesting yet hilarious incident involving Shardul Thakur. ALSO READ: 'My father is a farmer and all our life we are taught to keep trying': Shardul Thakur While Ravichandran Ashwin, with a sore back, and Hanuma Vihari, with a torn hamstring, were battling out to save the Sydney Test on Day 5, Indian team management sent bowling all-rounder Shardul Thakur to the ground to pass on a message for the duo in the middle. The full conversation between Ravichandran Ashwin and R Sridhar on Shardul Thakur conveying the message from the dressing room: Ashwin: Already I was padded up and standing from the morning because of my back pain. And then suddenly there was talk of Jadeja batting. And then suddenly Shastri came and said 'Ash, go!' After I went in, there were multiple messages from Shastri. Take us through those. Sridhar: At one end, the bounce was a bit uneven and you got hit. We were worried about two things - one, a batsman getting out. And two, if Ash was injured, there was only Ravi Shastri left to play! Lot of things at stake, so he sent a message through Shardul. He called for Shardul and said 'go tell Ashwin that I told him to play Lyon and Vihari to play the pacers'. Ashwin: We were oblivious to it. We were keeping on playing the same way, and Vihari came and said Ash I'm feeling a bit distracting, so let's rotate strike for a couple of overs. And we got a single. Vihari played off-spin, and after an over, he came and said I'm unable to move my feet! Somehow we survived. Shardul came running in and said "they're talking a lot of things inside. But I won't tell you anything! You both are playing well, just continue!" We were wondering what kind of a message this is. Sridhar: And we were thinking he conveyed the message to you guys! And then every ball became an event. You batted till tea, and then we started believing. We had 249 balls, and Shastri would say 'Shabash' after every ball. ALSO READ: Hanuma Vihari talks about Ravichandran Ashwin's struggles during the Sydney Test × Ashwin and Vihari, battling injuries, defied all the odds to remain unbeaten on Day 5 of the Sydney Test to help India draw the Test. Courtesy the drawn Sydney Test, the series remained at 1-1 which also gave a window to the Indian team to go for the kill in Brisbane as they won the Test series 2-1.

'Just continue!': When Shardul Thakur didn't convey Ravi Shastri's message to Vihari and Ashwin in Sydney

He "aged 10 years in about one hour" thanks to Rishabh Pant and Washington Sundar. Team India's long-serving fielding coach R Sridhar was in the thick of things as side battled adversity after adversity before their "unreal" Test series win over a mighty Australia.

And in an exclusive conversation with PTI, he opened up about the emotional roller-coaster that the tour was. "When Rishabh and Washy (Washington Sundar) were batting, I wasn't able to cope up with tension," Sridhar said after reaching his home in Hyderabad, still trying to calm the nerves after that surreal final day in Brisbane.

"My heart rate was 120 on fitness app and couldn't help telling Rohit that main ek ghante mein 10 saal buddha ho gaya," he joked. An integral part of the Indian team set-up, Sridhar opened about the tour in an elaborate chat, asserting it will be difficult to surpass what the team went through in the past one month -- from hitting the nadir to reaching the zenith.

He touched upon the many highlights of the intense trip -- from coach Ravi Shastri's inspiring speech after the 36 all-out disaster in Adelaide to Hanuma Vihari's "miracle" batting at Sydney to the stunner in Brisbane.

<h2>36 all out and the aftermath:</h2>

"After 36 all-out, you didn't know what's next. Then Ravi (Shastri) bhai gathered the team and said: 'Wear this 36 like a badge on your sleeves and you will be a great team'. "After 40 days, it was gospel truth. Also we had five meetings in two days after the Adelaide Test finished on the third evening. Virat (Kohli), Jinks (Ajinkya Rahane) and the coaching staff discussed combination and Virat gave some lovely suggestions for the MCG Test before leaving.

"I don't think there could have been a better execution in Melbourne," he recalled the events leading up to the turnaround in Melbourne, where India won to draw level.

<h2>Hanuma Vihari and the Sydney Heist:</h2>

"At tea time in Sydney, Vihari had his feet stretched wide as Nitin Patel strapped his hamstring and other physio administered painkillers. I went up to him and told Vihari, 'You owe the next two hours to your team as this team has backed you at every juncture.'

"...And after those 250 balls when he came back, he could barely walk, he fell down on the chair as I went to hug him. He said: 'Sir you asked for it. This is the best I could do in this situation.' I could just mutter 'thank you.' Sridhar said Vihari's fitness took a hit as he wasn't a part of the IPL like most other Indian players last year.

"His hamstring injury is multi-factorial. Firstly, he wasn't playing IPL like others, so general fitness level was a bit less than other guys which I told him and then he stood at short leg for three Tests which also contributed to injury. But what he did in Sydney gave us belief that we could do it in Brisbane.

"Vihari is an intense, young man. He is not your normal, jovial kind of a guy. He can go into a shell very soon, and that's his strength also and it helped him in Sydney. "Despite being on heavy dose of painkillers, which could make you a bit drowsy, he actually pulled off a miracle in Sydney. So when we got there in Brisbane, we had the belief that we could do it."

<h2>The Brisbane Chase on final day:</h2>

"We didn't want to complicate anything with Rishabh and Washy and it was their own plan. They had very valid excellent plan which was based on their abilities and belief. "When you see what they were executing, the last thing you want to do is send in information and at such times, less is more. Ajinkya and Ravi bhai said, 'Just leave these two alone. Whatever happens, we would take it, we came so far brilliantly'."

<h2>T Natarajan didn't carry his bat or pads to the tour:</h2>

"You know Nattu didn't carry a bat. He had his bowling spikes and trainers because he came as a net bowler and was supposed to bowl. He had to borrow one from either Washy or Ash (R Ashwin) when he was named in the squad.

"But that was the beauty. He was not any usual net bowler. (Strength and Conditioning coach) Nick Webb and (trainer) Soham (Desai) had proper strength and conditioning plan for all our net bowlers and they were an integral part of dressing room."

<h2>Talent called Washington:&nbsp;</h2>

"We kept him here after white ball games because we didn't want Ash to bowl too much at the nets but Nathan Lyon was always going to be an integral part of the Aussie line-up so we needed our batsmen to get net sessions.

"We used Washy to bowl into the rough. When Washy would bowl to our top order at nets, I would go and tell him 'Washy, give the ball over-spin because that's the need of the hour on Australian pitches, up (pitching it up) and over spin as you have to put your whole body behind the ball, because it requires energy.'

"We would tell Washy, that you may not be the lead off-spinner, but when India come back again in 2025, who knows you might be leading the spin attack with Kuldeep. Also even when he was not in original squad, he would bat for 30 minutes every day."

<h2>Leadership will now be known as 'Ravi Ship':</h2>

"Before the Brisbane Test started, Ravi bhai had one mantra, 'Nattu is no less than (Jasprit) Bumrah and Washy is no less than Ashwin, and that will be your mindset'. If you two are crossing that boundary line wearing that India cap, you are no less than the person next to you.

"Please quote me, it is unfair that you needed India's greatest Test victory to understand Ravi Shastri's contribution to Indian cricket. He was Indian cricket's 'Go To Man', when NCA needed restructuring in 2007, when IPL was conceptualised, when India needed a stop gap coach in 2007 after the World Cup exit, and also in 2014 when a Team Director was needed."

<h2>And finally, a Champagne spray and game of TT:</h2>

We had a flight next morning. So first we had to pack our bags and then we went to the team room for celebration. 90 per cent people don't drink so it was just spraying champagne and then some games of table tennis which the boys enjoyed.

He "aged 10 years in about one hour" thanks to Rishabh Pant and Washington Sundar. Team India's long-serving fielding coach R Sridhar was in the thick of things as side battled adversity after adversity before their "unreal" Test series win over a mighty Australia.

He "aged 10 years in about one hour" thanks to Rishabh Pant and Washington Sundar. Team India's long-serving fielding coach R Sridhar was in the thick of things as side battled adversity after adversity before their "unreal" Test series win over a mighty Australia. And in an exclusive conversation with PTI, he opened up about the emotional roller-coaster that the tour was. "When Rishabh and Washy (Washington Sundar) were batting, I wasn't able to cope up with tension," Sridhar said after reaching his home in Hyderabad, still trying to calm the nerves after that surreal final day in Brisbane. "My heart rate was 120 on fitness app and couldn't help telling Rohit that main ek ghante mein 10 saal buddha ho gaya," he joked. An integral part of the Indian team set-up, Sridhar opened about the tour in an elaborate chat, asserting it will be difficult to surpass what the team went through in the past one month -- from hitting the nadir to reaching the zenith. He touched upon the many highlights of the intense trip -- from coach Ravi Shastri's inspiring speech after the 36 all-out disaster in Adelaide to Hanuma Vihari's "miracle" batting at Sydney to the stunner in Brisbane. 36 all out and the aftermath: "After 36 all-out, you didn't know what's next. Then Ravi (Shastri) bhai gathered the team and said: 'Wear this 36 like a badge on your sleeves and you will be a great team'. "After 40 days, it was gospel truth. Also we had five meetings in two days after the Adelaide Test finished on the third evening. Virat (Kohli), Jinks (Ajinkya Rahane) and the coaching staff discussed combination and Virat gave some lovely suggestions for the MCG Test before leaving. "I don't think there could have been a better execution in Melbourne," he recalled the events leading up to the turnaround in Melbourne, where India won to draw level. Hanuma Vihari and the Sydney Heist: "At tea time in Sydney, Vihari had his feet stretched wide as Nitin Patel strapped his hamstring and other physio administered painkillers. I went up to him and told Vihari, 'You owe the next two hours to your team as this team has backed you at every juncture.' "...And after those 250 balls when he came back, he could barely walk, he fell down on the chair as I went to hug him. He said: 'Sir you asked for it. This is the best I could do in this situation.' I could just mutter 'thank you.' Sridhar said Vihari's fitness took a hit as he wasn't a part of the IPL like most other Indian players last year. "His hamstring injury is multi-factorial. Firstly, he wasn't playing IPL like others, so general fitness level was a bit less than other guys which I told him and then he stood at short leg for three Tests which also contributed to injury. But what he did in Sydney gave us belief that we could do it in Brisbane. "Vihari is an intense, young man. He is not your normal, jovial kind of a guy. He can go into a shell very soon, and that's his strength also and it helped him in Sydney. "Despite being on heavy dose of painkillers, which could make you a bit drowsy, he actually pulled off a miracle in Sydney. So when we got there in Brisbane, we had the belief that we could do it." The Brisbane Chase on final day: "We didn't want to complicate anything with Rishabh and Washy and it was their own plan. They had very valid excellent plan which was based on their abilities and belief. "When you see what they were executing, the last thing you want to do is send in information and at such times, less is more. Ajinkya and Ravi bhai said, 'Just leave these two alone. Whatever happens, we would take it, we came so far brilliantly'." T Natarajan didn't carry his bat or pads to the tour: "You know Nattu didn't carry a bat. He had his bowling spikes and trainers because he came as a net bowler and was supposed to bowl. He had to borrow one from either Washy or Ash (R Ashwin) when he was named in the squad. "But that was the beauty. He was not any usual net bowler. (Strength and Conditioning coach) Nick Webb and (trainer) Soham (Desai) had proper strength and conditioning plan for all our net bowlers and they were an integral part of dressing room." Talent called Washington: "We kept him here after white ball games because we didn't want Ash to bowl too much at the nets but Nathan Lyon was always going to be an integral part of the Aussie line-up so we needed our batsmen to get net sessions. "We used Washy to bowl into the rough. When Washy would bowl to our top order at nets, I would go and tell him 'Washy, give the ball over-spin because that's the need of the hour on Australian pitches, up (pitching it up) and over spin as you have to put your whole body behind the ball, because it requires energy.' "We would tell Washy, that you may not be the lead off-spinner, but when India come back again in 2025, who knows you might be leading the spin attack with Kuldeep. Also even when he was not in original squad, he would bat for 30 minutes every day." Leadership will now be known as 'Ravi Ship': "Before the Brisbane Test started, Ravi bhai had one mantra, 'Nattu is no less than (Jasprit) Bumrah and Washy is no less than Ashwin, and that will be your mindset'. If you two are crossing that boundary line wearing that India cap, you are no less than the person next to you. "Please quote me, it is unfair that you needed India's greatest Test victory to understand Ravi Shastri's contribution to Indian cricket. He was Indian cricket's 'Go To Man', when NCA needed restructuring in 2007, when IPL was conceptualised, when India needed a stop gap coach in 2007 after the World Cup exit, and also in 2014 when a Team Director was needed." And finally, a Champagne spray and game of TT: We had a flight next morning. So first we had to pack our bags and then we went to the team room for celebration. 90 per cent people don't drink so it was just spraying champagne and then some games of table tennis which the boys enjoyed.

Inside Team Room: Wear that 36 all out like a badge, R Sridhar recalls 'Raviship' and more

India coach Ravi Shastri on Tuesday claimed this was the toughest ever tour an Indian team had undertaken and credited regular skipper Virat Kohli for the self-belief and character that saw the Indians win their second successive series in Australia. 
 
Kohli had returned home after India suffered a humiliating loss in the first Test at Adelaide to attend the birth of his first child. He had led India to their first-ever series win in Australia, back in 2018-19. 
 
"This is the toughest tour ever. We are playing in Covid and quarantine times with multiple injuries. So nothing comes close to this or surpasses this," said the coach after India defeated Australia in the fourth and final Test by three wickets at the Gabba. 
 
"You must give credit to Virat Kohli. He may not be here. He has gone back home. But his character, his personality is there for everyone to see in this team. For Ajinkya to take over the way he did was simply unreal. We were left with no choices, had no one left in the squad when the final Test started. India beat Australia in Australia last time but there was not a single bowler from that tour playing in this last game. It was important to keep the self-belief going," he said. 
 
Shastri lauded Rahane`s captaincy. 
 
"I think Ajinkya did a great job by being calm, composed. It is not easy to go out with a bowling attack that is just three Test matches old? I think it is the self-belief. You people believe it has come overnight. It hasn`t come overnight. It is a process that has taken 5-6 years. These boys have been playing with each other for five-six years. They have had tough tours, they have had losses. What they have learnt now is never give up. Feeling defeated is one thing. But not giving up is not in our game. And that this team has shown. And you have to give credit to Kohli," said Shastri. 
 
Shastri said that he had tears in his eyes after the series win. 
 
"I got emotional. I am not someone who has tears in my eyes but I really had absolutely real tears in my eyes. This is unreal. What these guys have pulled off will go down in history as one of the greatest series ever played. And when you look at the Covid situation and spate of injuries and to take everything into account and to show the stomach for fight after being bowled out for 36 is unimaginable." 
 
Shastri described the difficult circumstances the team had to go through ahead of the series. 
 
"When you look at the circumstances when this team came to Australia -- being in lockdown for four months where a lot of people living in metros couldn`t even get out of their flats, leave alone get an opportunity to practice and train. Then to go to IPL?. None of the guys had a proper hit in the middle. Then to come here and take on Australia in their own backyard, the world knows how tough it is. Then to go through these quarantine periods, have multiple injuries right through the tour," he stressed. 
 
"To be here bowled out for 36, India`s lowest score and then to come back from there and play like absolute champions is unreal. The penny has still not dropped. It will take some time. Unreal. Unimaginable. Simply superb. Especially the resolve and character the boys have shown." 
 
&nbsp;

India coach Ravi Shastri on Tuesday claimed this was the toughest ever tour an Indian team had undertaken and credited regular skipper Virat Kohli for the self-belief and character that saw the Indians win their second successive series in Australia.

India coach Ravi Shastri on Tuesday claimed this was the toughest ever tour an Indian team had undertaken and credited regular skipper Virat Kohli for the self-belief and character that saw the Indians win their second successive series in Australia. Kohli had returned home after India suffered a humiliating loss in the first Test at Adelaide to attend the birth of his first child. He had led India to their first-ever series win in Australia, back in 2018-19. "This is the toughest tour ever. We are playing in Covid and quarantine times with multiple injuries. So nothing comes close to this or surpasses this," said the coach after India defeated Australia in the fourth and final Test by three wickets at the Gabba. "You must give credit to Virat Kohli. He may not be here. He has gone back home. But his character, his personality is there for everyone to see in this team. For Ajinkya to take over the way he did was simply unreal. We were left with no choices, had no one left in the squad when the final Test started. India beat Australia in Australia last time but there was not a single bowler from that tour playing in this last game. It was important to keep the self-belief going," he said. Shastri lauded Rahane`s captaincy. "I think Ajinkya did a great job by being calm, composed. It is not easy to go out with a bowling attack that is just three Test matches old? I think it is the self-belief. You people believe it has come overnight. It hasn`t come overnight. It is a process that has taken 5-6 years. These boys have been playing with each other for five-six years. They have had tough tours, they have had losses. What they have learnt now is never give up. Feeling defeated is one thing. But not giving up is not in our game. And that this team has shown. And you have to give credit to Kohli," said Shastri. Shastri said that he had tears in his eyes after the series win. "I got emotional. I am not someone who has tears in my eyes but I really had absolutely real tears in my eyes. This is unreal. What these guys have pulled off will go down in history as one of the greatest series ever played. And when you look at the Covid situation and spate of injuries and to take everything into account and to show the stomach for fight after being bowled out for 36 is unimaginable." Shastri described the difficult circumstances the team had to go through ahead of the series. "When you look at the circumstances when this team came to Australia -- being in lockdown for four months where a lot of people living in metros couldn`t even get out of their flats, leave alone get an opportunity to practice and train. Then to go to IPL?. None of the guys had a proper hit in the middle. Then to come here and take on Australia in their own backyard, the world knows how tough it is. Then to go through these quarantine periods, have multiple injuries right through the tour," he stressed. "To be here bowled out for 36, India`s lowest score and then to come back from there and play like absolute champions is unreal. The penny has still not dropped. It will take some time. Unreal. Unimaginable. Simply superb. Especially the resolve and character the boys have shown."

Give credit to Virat for team's self-belief, character: Ravi Shastri

The head coach of the Indian cricket team, Ravi Shastri on Tuesday termed his side's historic Test series win against Australia as "unreal as the former Indian all-rounder recollected the memories of starting the four-Test series with the humiliation in Adelaide before turning it around against all odds. Shastri, after India's historic triumph at the Gabba in Brisbane, said that this was the "toughest tour ever" while adding "nothing surpasses this".&nbsp;

India defeated Australia by three wickets to win the Brisbane Test and seal the series 2-1 in their favour as the visitors became the first side to win back to back Test series on Australian soil.&nbsp;

"It is the toughest tour ever. Nothing surpasses this. After 36 all out, this is unreal," Shastri said after the three-wicket win in the fourth and final Test here which sealed the series 2-1 in favour of the tourists.

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"Feeling defeated is one thing but giving up is not in our vocabulary," Shastri said India's performance will not be forgotten by the cricket world for a long time to come.

India, who were marred by injuries to their key players, won the Test by fielding an inexperienced side, consisting of players who were initially drafted into the squad as net bowlers before becoming talismanic to team's historic achievement against Australia.&nbsp;

Successfully chasing a 328-run target. Rishabh Pant (89 not out off 138 balls) intimidated the Australians with his breathtaking strokeplay, ending the home team's 32-year-old unbeaten run at the 'Fortress Gabba' on Tuesday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/remarkable-from-pm-modi-to-ganguly-team-india-lauded-for-scripting-history-against-australia-357682" hreflang="en">'Remarkable': From PM Modi to Ganguly - Team India lauded for scripting history against Australia</a>

Shastri was effusive in his praise for the young wicketkeeper-batsman, who has copped heavy criticism for erratic performances behind the stumps but earned renewed respect for his efforts with the bat.

"In his mind Pant was always chasing. You could see he was looking at the scoreboard," Shastri said.

"He is a good listener. As coach, you don't want to change anyone's natural ability but you need to strike the right balance between caution and aggression. You can't be reckless. Rishabh has learnt that," he added.

Shastri said Pant, who scored a 97 in the drawn Sydney Test, could have won that match for India, had he stayed. "He could have finished the game in Sydney had he been there for some more time. This time he made sure he was there till the end," he said. "When he doesn't keep well, people criticise him But he can help you win matches like these."

India's next assignment will be a full-fledged home series against England. India will welcome some of their key players back to the squad.

The head coach of the Indian cricket team, Ravi Shastri on Tuesday termed his side's historic Test series win against Australia as "unreal as the former Indian all-rounder recollected the memories of starting the four-Test series with the humiliation in Adelaide before turning it around against all odds.

The head coach of the Indian cricket team, Ravi Shastri on Tuesday termed his side's historic Test series win against Australia as "unreal as the former Indian all-rounder recollected the memories of starting the four-Test series with the humiliation in Adelaide before turning it around against all odds. Shastri, after India's historic triumph at the Gabba in Brisbane, said that this was the "toughest tour ever" while adding "nothing surpasses this". India defeated Australia by three wickets to win the Brisbane Test and seal the series 2-1 in their favour as the visitors became the first side to win back to back Test series on Australian soil. "It is the toughest tour ever. Nothing surpasses this. After 36 all out, this is unreal," Shastri said after the three-wicket win in the fourth and final Test here which sealed the series 2-1 in favour of the tourists. ALSO READ: BCCI announces whopping bonus for Team India after historic feat against Australia "Feeling defeated is one thing but giving up is not in our vocabulary," Shastri said India's performance will not be forgotten by the cricket world for a long time to come. India, who were marred by injuries to their key players, won the Test by fielding an inexperienced side, consisting of players who were initially drafted into the squad as net bowlers before becoming talismanic to team's historic achievement against Australia. Successfully chasing a 328-run target. Rishabh Pant (89 not out off 138 balls) intimidated the Australians with his breathtaking strokeplay, ending the home team's 32-year-old unbeaten run at the 'Fortress Gabba' on Tuesday. ALSO READ: 'Remarkable': From PM Modi to Ganguly - Team India lauded for scripting history against Australia Shastri was effusive in his praise for the young wicketkeeper-batsman, who has copped heavy criticism for erratic performances behind the stumps but earned renewed respect for his efforts with the bat. "In his mind Pant was always chasing. You could see he was looking at the scoreboard," Shastri said. "He is a good listener. As coach, you don't want to change anyone's natural ability but you need to strike the right balance between caution and aggression. You can't be reckless. Rishabh has learnt that," he added. Shastri said Pant, who scored a 97 in the drawn Sydney Test, could have won that match for India, had he stayed. "He could have finished the game in Sydney had he been there for some more time. This time he made sure he was there till the end," he said. "When he doesn't keep well, people criticise him But he can help you win matches like these." India's next assignment will be a full-fledged home series against England. India will welcome some of their key players back to the squad.

'Toughest tour ever, nothing surpasses this': Ravi Shastri hails Team India's incredible feat against Australia

The Indian cricket team is looking to win back-to-back Test series on Australian soil with the four-Test series against Australia firmly locked at 1-1. India, in the 2018/19 tour of Australia, became the first Asian side to defeat Australia in Australia as the Virat Kohli-led visitors won the series 2-1. In 2016/17, when Australia visited India, the hosts won the series 2-1.

The head coach of the Indian cricket team, Ravi Shastri has said that he can't see the feat of winning against Australia, both at home and away, by the Indian team led by Kohli emulated by any other Indian captain for a very long time.&nbsp;

India defeated Australia 2-1 after terrific batting display by the likes of Cheteshwar Pujara whereas Kohli led the side with passion and aggression to match the Aussie side on their home soil.

"The satisfaction gained in registering India's first series win in Australia after 71 years of heartbreak was immense," Shastri says in the book 'India's 71-Year Test: The Journey to Triumph in Australia' which is the latest in a series of publications from the Bradman Museum.

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"I can't see Virat's feat of winning against Australia both at home and away being emulated by another Indian captain for a very long time.

"The great thing about success in Australia is that it doesn't come easily.

Shastri added that sportspersons command respect when they win the hard away while adding this is why this Indian team commands respect from the Aussies after humbling them with fast-bowling resources.

"As a professional sportsperson, you know that when you win the hard way, you command respect.

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"Indian teams have done well in Australia since the turn of the (21st) century, but didn't have the depth of fast-bowling resources.

"That's why this Indian team commanded respect from the hard-to-please Aussies like few others in the past."

India and Australia are set to lock horns in the third Test in Sydney, scheduled to start from January 7.

The Indian cricket team is looking to win back-to-back Test series on Australian soil with the four-Test series against Australia firmly locked at 1-1. India, in the 2018/19 tour of Australia, became the first Asian side to defeat Australia in Australia as the Virat Kohli-led visitors won the series 2-1.

The Indian cricket team is looking to win back-to-back Test series on Australian soil with the four-Test series against Australia firmly locked at 1-1. India, in the 2018/19 tour of Australia, became the first Asian side to defeat Australia in Australia as the Virat Kohli-led visitors won the series 2-1. In 2016/17, when Australia visited India, the hosts won the series 2-1. The head coach of the Indian cricket team, Ravi Shastri has said that he can't see the feat of winning against Australia, both at home and away, by the Indian team led by Kohli emulated by any other Indian captain for a very long time. India defeated Australia 2-1 after terrific batting display by the likes of Cheteshwar Pujara whereas Kohli led the side with passion and aggression to match the Aussie side on their home soil. "The satisfaction gained in registering India's first series win in Australia after 71 years of heartbreak was immense," Shastri says in the book 'India's 71-Year Test: The Journey to Triumph in Australia' which is the latest in a series of publications from the Bradman Museum. ALSO READ: A fan who attended the IND vs AUS Boxing Day Test at MCG, tests positive for COVID-19 "I can't see Virat's feat of winning against Australia both at home and away being emulated by another Indian captain for a very long time. "The great thing about success in Australia is that it doesn't come easily. Shastri added that sportspersons command respect when they win the hard away while adding this is why this Indian team commands respect from the Aussies after humbling them with fast-bowling resources. "As a professional sportsperson, you know that when you win the hard way, you command respect. ALSO READ: AUS vs IND: Tensions broil over Team India Brisbane boycott reports "Indian teams have done well in Australia since the turn of the (21st) century, but didn't have the depth of fast-bowling resources. "That's why this Indian team commanded respect from the hard-to-please Aussies like few others in the past." India and Australia are set to lock horns in the third Test in Sydney, scheduled to start from January 7.

Virat Kohli's captaincy feats against Australia unlikely to be emulated soon: Ravi Shastri

India on Tuesday completed a major turnaround to script one of the greatest wins in Test cricket as Ajinkya Rahane and Co., without the likes of Virat Kohli and Mohammed Shami, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/border-gavaskar-trophy-india-win-the-second-test-level-series-at-1-1-353075">defeated Australia by eight wickets at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground in what was the Boxing Day Test</a>. After the memorable win, Indian head coach Ravi Shastri heaped praise on Ajinkya Rahane and his free-flowing century in the first innings while calling the stand-in skipper’s century as the turning point of the match. Shastri further said that while Kohli is a very passionate captain, Rahane is more calm and composed.

Rahane scored 112 runs before getting run out while taking a tight run with Ravindra Jadeja. However, Rahane’s knock was critical in helping India gain a 131-run lead in the first innings – which made life easier for the visitors.&nbsp;

Asked about the turning point of the match, Shastri said, "I think, it was the innings of Ajinkya Rahane."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/couldnt-be-happier-for-jinks-virat-kohli-lauds-ajinkya-rahane-co-for-historic-win-in-boxing-day-test-353106" hreflang="en">'Couldn't be happier for Jinks' - Virat Kohli lauds Ajinkya Rahane &amp; Co. for historic win in Boxing Day Test</a>

"The discipline, you know on such a big stage...When he (Rahane) went out to bat, we were 2 down for 60, and then to bat six hours, on probably the toughest day to bat, because it was overcast all day and he batted for six hours, unbelievable concentration," the former batsman recalled.

"I thought that was the turning point. His innings was the turning point," he added at the post-match virtual press conference.

Rahane’s century (112 runs) came in 223 deliveries as he batted out for the majority of Indian innings, holding fort at one end and stitching crucial partnerships.&nbsp;

Shastri was also asked about the difference in captaincy style of Rahane and regular skipper Virat Kohli, who is currently on paternity leave.

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"See, both are good readers of the game, Virat is very passionate, Ajinkya, on the other hand, is very calm and composed, and it's their characters.

"Virat is more in your face while Ajinkya is quite prepared to sit back in a very calm and composed manner, but deep inside he knows what he wants," he opined.

India on Tuesday completed a major turnaround to script one of the greatest wins in Test cricket as Ajinkya Rahane and Co., without the likes of Virat Kohli and Mohammed Shami, defeated Australia by eight wickets at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground in what was the Boxing Day Test.

India on Tuesday completed a major turnaround to script one of the greatest wins in Test cricket as Ajinkya Rahane and Co., without the likes of Virat Kohli and Mohammed Shami, defeated Australia by eight wickets at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground in what was the Boxing Day Test. After the memorable win, Indian head coach Ravi Shastri heaped praise on Ajinkya Rahane and his free-flowing century in the first innings while calling the stand-in skipper’s century as the turning point of the match. Shastri further said that while Kohli is a very passionate captain, Rahane is more calm and composed. Rahane scored 112 runs before getting run out while taking a tight run with Ravindra Jadeja. However, Rahane’s knock was critical in helping India gain a 131-run lead in the first innings – which made life easier for the visitors. Asked about the turning point of the match, Shastri said, "I think, it was the innings of Ajinkya Rahane." ALSO READ: 'Couldn't be happier for Jinks' - Virat Kohli lauds Ajinkya Rahane & Co. for historic win in Boxing Day Test "The discipline, you know on such a big stage...When he (Rahane) went out to bat, we were 2 down for 60, and then to bat six hours, on probably the toughest day to bat, because it was overcast all day and he batted for six hours, unbelievable concentration," the former batsman recalled. "I thought that was the turning point. His innings was the turning point," he added at the post-match virtual press conference. Rahane’s century (112 runs) came in 223 deliveries as he batted out for the majority of Indian innings, holding fort at one end and stitching crucial partnerships. Shastri was also asked about the difference in captaincy style of Rahane and regular skipper Virat Kohli, who is currently on paternity leave. ALSO READ: ICC announces Decade Awards: From Kohli, Smith to Perry - Here's complete list of winners "See, both are good readers of the game, Virat is very passionate, Ajinkya, on the other hand, is very calm and composed, and it's their characters. "Virat is more in your face while Ajinkya is quite prepared to sit back in a very calm and composed manner, but deep inside he knows what he wants," he opined.

Virat is very passionate, Ajinkya is calm: Ravi Shastri on captaincy comparison after Boxing Day Test

Australian head coach Justin Langer dodged a bullet during a press conference on Thursday, when asked about criticism over Ravi Shastri’s tenure as India’s head coach, as the Aussie said that it was none of his business while saying he is glad if India are feeling any stress.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
A lot of criticism has come on Shastri’s way following India’s eight-wicket defeat to Australia wherein India were bundled out for 36 in the second innings.

"None of my business. I have had enough with stress. I empathize with the opposition and I know what it feels like. If India are feeling any stress, I am glad they are and not us over the Christmas weekend," Justin Langer said in a virtual media press conference.

Langer further said that he has enormous faith in Australia’s Test captain Tim Paine and in his leadership qualities.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/players-will-go-out-new-faces-will-come-in-but-what-about-mr-ravi-shastri-351379" hreflang="en">Players will go out, new faces will come in. But what about Mr Ravi Shastri?</a>

"You think about Adam Gilchrist, I guess, who transformed the game in a sense, and that is why Adam Gilchrist is an all-time great player because he transformed the game. I have got enormous faith in Tim Paine," Langer said.

"...whether it's his wicket-keeping, his captaincy, his batting, I have said publicly and privately for almost the last year, he is our most important player, because he is a lead wicket-keeper, his leadership on and off the field is incredible," he said.

"....we saw he can play, how well he batted in first innings under pressure in Adelaide, probably changed the game actually with the run-out of Virat Kohli, so he is a great player, a great leader and I literally love having him in our team," he said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/different-rules-for-different-people-gavaskar-questions-team-management-on-why-natarajan-was-not-given-paternity-leave-351862" hreflang="en">'Different rules for different people': Gavaskar questions team management on why Natarajan was not given paternity leave</a>

Australia would be looking to carry the winning momentum and take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the four-Test series despite suffering a massive blow in which key opener David Warner was ruled out of the Boxing Day Test versus India, scheduled to start from December 26 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

Australian head coach Justin Langer dodged a bullet during a press conference on Thursday, when asked about criticism over Ravi Shastri’s tenure as India’s head coach, as the Aussie said that it was none of his business while saying he is glad if India are feeling any stress.

Australian head coach Justin Langer dodged a bullet during a press conference on Thursday, when asked about criticism over Ravi Shastri’s tenure as India’s head coach, as the Aussie said that it was none of his business while saying he is glad if India are feeling any stress. A lot of criticism has come on Shastri’s way following India’s eight-wicket defeat to Australia wherein India were bundled out for 36 in the second innings. "None of my business. I have had enough with stress. I empathize with the opposition and I know what it feels like. If India are feeling any stress, I am glad they are and not us over the Christmas weekend," Justin Langer said in a virtual media press conference. Langer further said that he has enormous faith in Australia’s Test captain Tim Paine and in his leadership qualities. ALSO READ: Players will go out, new faces will come in. But what about Mr Ravi Shastri? "You think about Adam Gilchrist, I guess, who transformed the game in a sense, and that is why Adam Gilchrist is an all-time great player because he transformed the game. I have got enormous faith in Tim Paine," Langer said. "...whether it's his wicket-keeping, his captaincy, his batting, I have said publicly and privately for almost the last year, he is our most important player, because he is a lead wicket-keeper, his leadership on and off the field is incredible," he said. "....we saw he can play, how well he batted in first innings under pressure in Adelaide, probably changed the game actually with the run-out of Virat Kohli, so he is a great player, a great leader and I literally love having him in our team," he said. ALSO READ: 'Different rules for different people': Gavaskar questions team management on why Natarajan was not given paternity leave Australia would be looking to carry the winning momentum and take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the four-Test series despite suffering a massive blow in which key opener David Warner was ruled out of the Boxing Day Test versus India, scheduled to start from December 26 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

None of my business, glad if India are stressed: Justin Langer on being in Ravi Shastri's shoes

“If you look at the last three years, we [Indian cricket team] have won nine matches overseas and three series (against West Indies and twice in Sri Lanka). I can't see any other Indian team in the last 15-20 years that have had the same run in such a short time, and you have had some great players playing in those series. So the promise is there, and it's just about getting tougher mentally,” Indian head coach Ravi Shastri had said about the Indian team with beaming pride in 2018 just after England handed a painful 4-1 Test series defeat.

In July 2017, Ravi Shastri was appointed as the head coach of the Indian cricket team after Indian skipper Virat Kohli and Anil Kumble (former Indian head coach)&nbsp;didn’t get together well enough, which resulted in the latter resigning from his post – a saga well documented in public.&nbsp;

Since Shastri’s appointment, India have defeated Sri Lanka (home and away), South Africa (home), the West Indies (home and away), Bangladesh (home), Afghanistan (one-off Test at home) and Australia (away) but have suffered glaring defeats against England (away), South Africa (away) and New Zealand (away).

The latest addition into the matches India have played under Shastri’s tenure as head coach is the Adelaide Horror, where the Virat Kohli-led visitors were skittled out for 36 runs in the second innings with none of the batters managing to get to double digits.

<img alt="India vs Australia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b77ee441-0488-46bc-8622-41e15f4c1e9e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_8XF7WC.jpg" />

India may well go onto turn the tables and win the series (a mammoth task)&nbsp;but the scars of 36 have been etched into the hearts of the Indian cricket fans forever.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/indias-self-destructive-duo-fire-shastri-and-axe-captain-kohli-save-india-please-bcci-350981" hreflang="en">India's self destructive duo: Fire Shastri and axe captain Kohli, save India please BCCI</a>

Ravi Shastri has always sounded bullish about Indian team and the talent it possesses, no second thought about it because it is indeed a supremely talented bunch of players. The bowling attack is arguably the best Indian team has had so far in their history. The batting unit led by Virat Kohli consists of quality players like Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Mayank Agarwal and Hanuma Vihari – all of them have stood out in some series or another but the questions remain; is this Indian team utilizing its potential collectively? When will Ravi Shastri and co. start producing results overseas? Why does India often get tactically outclassed on foreign soil?

<img alt="India vs Australia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="179db4ef-827b-4459-ba0c-173edb9ec23a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_8XF6G3.jpg" />

India have been dominating home series and that has been the case for long, long before Ravi Shastri. The 2-1 Border Gavaskar Trophy win in 2018-19 was historic, no shadow of doubt about it. Then Australia were without David Warner and Steve Smith, and India pounced on each and every opportunity that came towards them in the series and registered their first-ever Test series win on Australian soil and became the first Asian side to do so. Fair enough. But did the Indian team utilize the momentum and became a better side? No.

Let’s not even go back to Freedom Trophy, when India visited South Africa in 2017-18 or even the Pataudi Trophy, when India visited England in 2018. India lost both the series. Some will say due to poor reading of conditions, many will say India were tactically and technically outclassed by the hosts.&nbsp;

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Just before the COVID-19 pandemic hit, India were humiliated by New Zealand and ended up losing the series 2-0. Completely dominated and outclassed by the Kane Williamson-led outfit. Then the pandemic struck and the series drubbing slowly took a backseat amid the chaos of daily life. However, the Adelaide Horror has freshened up the sour memories and fans are asking, what is Ravi Shastri doing to get this talented bunch of players up and running in full flow?

<img alt="Virat Kohli" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8b9744d3-6c89-487c-a62c-5ed4b16e9117" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_8XF4TE.jpg" />

The current Indian squad is pretty much similar to when it visited Down Under in 2018-19. So what went so wrong in Adelaide? The pink-ball? India got ample practice including a warm-up game to gear up for the game. Or is the Indian cricket team bearing the weight of being clueless on the tactical front, especially when it comes to batting? The same old road map which was torn apart by the likes of Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc and Nathan Lyon in Adelaide.&nbsp;

<img alt="Mayank Agarwal" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="152d4b6a-318c-4bbb-b454-f3c2d2650a6d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_8XF628.jpg" />

Shastri was handed a contract extension in June 2019, until the ICC World Cup 2021. But has the head coach of the Indian cricket team justified his role and position by suffering defeats after defeats in away series (barring Australia 2018-19) against major opposition?&nbsp;

Good vocabulary and booming voice may sound good in the commentary box or in press conferences - where Ravi Shastri is generally not seen after series defeats. But when it comes to the Indian cricket team, the fans demand result, which in all fairness, has been a disappointing course under Shastri’s tenure - be it in away series or in ICC tournaments. And let’s not even discuss the ICC World Cup 2019 semi-final, where the Indian team was left shattered and clueless by New Zealand bowlers.&nbsp;

<img alt="Ravi Shastri" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0ee0eb9e-44d7-4c6f-9c4e-80f2b7730e05" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1NN955.jpg" />

The Indian cricket team is well capable of coming back strong. These players are a talented bunch. New faces will come in. Players who underperform are often mercilessly cropped out but what about the underperforming head coach of the Indian team? Is there an answer now or will India wait till three forthcoming World Cups, in 2021, 22 and 23? Or if everyone is content with India thrashing Sri Lanka, West Indies or Bangladesh (with all due respect to these teams), then let it be.&nbsp;

“If you look at the last three years, we [Indian cricket team] have won nine matches overseas and three series (against West Indies and twice in Sri Lanka). I can't see any other Indian team in the last 15-20 years that have had the same run in such a short time, and you have had some great players playing in those series.

“If you look at the last three years, we [Indian cricket team] have won nine matches overseas and three series (against West Indies and twice in Sri Lanka). I can't see any other Indian team in the last 15-20 years that have had the same run in such a short time, and you have had some great players playing in those series. So the promise is there, and it's just about getting tougher mentally,” Indian head coach Ravi Shastri had said about the Indian team with beaming pride in 2018 just after England handed a painful 4-1 Test series defeat. In July 2017, Ravi Shastri was appointed as the head coach of the Indian cricket team after Indian skipper Virat Kohli and Anil Kumble (former Indian head coach) didn’t get together well enough, which resulted in the latter resigning from his post – a saga well documented in public. Since Shastri’s appointment, India have defeated Sri Lanka (home and away), South Africa (home), the West Indies (home and away), Bangladesh (home), Afghanistan (one-off Test at home) and Australia (away) but have suffered glaring defeats against England (away), South Africa (away) and New Zealand (away). The latest addition into the matches India have played under Shastri’s tenure as head coach is the Adelaide Horror, where the Virat Kohli-led visitors were skittled out for 36 runs in the second innings with none of the batters managing to get to double digits. India may well go onto turn the tables and win the series (a mammoth task) but the scars of 36 have been etched into the hearts of the Indian cricket fans forever. ALSO READ: India's self destructive duo: Fire Shastri and axe captain Kohli, save India please BCCI Ravi Shastri has always sounded bullish about Indian team and the talent it possesses, no second thought about it because it is indeed a supremely talented bunch of players. The bowling attack is arguably the best Indian team has had so far in their history. The batting unit led by Virat Kohli consists of quality players like Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Mayank Agarwal and Hanuma Vihari – all of them have stood out in some series or another but the questions remain; is this Indian team utilizing its potential collectively? When will Ravi Shastri and co. start producing results overseas? Why does India often get tactically outclassed on foreign soil? India have been dominating home series and that has been the case for long, long before Ravi Shastri. The 2-1 Border Gavaskar Trophy win in 2018-19 was historic, no shadow of doubt about it. Then Australia were without David Warner and Steve Smith, and India pounced on each and every opportunity that came towards them in the series and registered their first-ever Test series win on Australian soil and became the first Asian side to do so. Fair enough. But did the Indian team utilize the momentum and became a better side? No. Let’s not even go back to Freedom Trophy, when India visited South Africa in 2017-18 or even the Pataudi Trophy, when India visited England in 2018. India lost both the series. Some will say due to poor reading of conditions, many will say India were tactically and technically outclassed by the hosts. ALSO READ: Warne vs Tendulkar, 'Monkeygate': 5 classic Australia vs India encounters Just before the COVID-19 pandemic hit, India were humiliated by New Zealand and ended up losing the series 2-0. Completely dominated and outclassed by the Kane Williamson-led outfit. Then the pandemic struck and the series drubbing slowly took a backseat amid the chaos of daily life. However, the Adelaide Horror has freshened up the sour memories and fans are asking, what is Ravi Shastri doing to get this talented bunch of players up and running in full flow? The current Indian squad is pretty much similar to when it visited Down Under in 2018-19. So what went so wrong in Adelaide? The pink-ball? India got ample practice including a warm-up game to gear up for the game. Or is the Indian cricket team bearing the weight of being clueless on the tactical front, especially when it comes to batting? The same old road map which was torn apart by the likes of Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc and Nathan Lyon in Adelaide. Shastri was handed a contract extension in June 2019, until the ICC World Cup 2021. But has the head coach of the Indian cricket team justified his role and position by suffering defeats after defeats in away series (barring Australia 2018-19) against major opposition? Good vocabulary and booming voice may sound good in the commentary box or in press conferences - where Ravi Shastri is generally not seen after series defeats. But when it comes to the Indian cricket team, the fans demand result, which in all fairness, has been a disappointing course under Shastri’s tenure - be it in away series or in ICC tournaments. And let’s not even discuss the ICC World Cup 2019 semi-final, where the Indian team was left shattered and clueless by New Zealand bowlers. The Indian cricket team is well capable of coming back strong. These players are a talented bunch. New faces will come in. Players who underperform are often mercilessly cropped out but what about the underperforming head coach of the Indian team? Is there an answer now or will India wait till three forthcoming World Cups, in 2021, 22 and 23? Or if everyone is content with India thrashing Sri Lanka, West Indies or Bangladesh (with all due respect to these teams), then let it be.

Players will go out, new faces will come in. But what about Mr Ravi Shastri?

July 9, 2019, ICC Cricket World Cup semi-final, India vs New Zealand. Result: resurgent Kiwis beat Kohli's Men in Blue by 18 runs(the result was never in doubt, except for Dhoni and Jadeja fans).

Fast forward to Cricket World Cup to be held in India in 2023.&nbsp;India vs Pakistan at Eden Gardens in a semi-final encounter. India has the historic record of never being beaten against their arch-rival. But wait, the unthinkable happens. Kohli's India slips to defeat on a disastrous day and he resigns as captain and Shastri steps down.

Last year, coach Shastri even said India's Test victory in Australia was&nbsp;"bigger" than India's maiden&nbsp;1983 World Cup triumph. Remember it was a depleted Australian team without the services of Smith and Warner and their morale was at an all-time low. India's victory was almost on a platter. This time it is different, Aussies are red hot at home.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Watch Shastri's comments here:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indias-victory-in-australia-bigger-than-1983-world-cup-win-says-shastri-188749/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Today, however, is December 19, 2020, the&nbsp;World Cup moment above is still years away and if India and its selectors want to avoid this&nbsp;fate the time to act is now. It is time to groom a new captain and bring in a new coach (a foreigner preferably). The Shastri-Kohli duo have had their day and India is grateful&nbsp;but cricket needs to move on. It is time for the BCCI to ensure a change of guard - if not now, when?

MS Dhoni, India's 2011 World Cup-winning captain had his eye set on the Mumbai final in 2008&nbsp;- three years prior to the big match and he began culling the seniors - Ganguly, Dravid etc from the one-day team. The result was pure fury as fans erupted, but history only remembers the final result: India beat Sri Lanka in the final.

The question to be asked is do&nbsp;Shastri and Kohli have a&nbsp;gameplan for 2023? Is Indian cricket set to humiliate its fans at home when the next World Cup will be&nbsp;played in front of 100,000 fans at Eden or Wankhede?

Now, the ball is in BCCI's court, if the search for a new coach does not begin it will be too late since 2021 is already upon us. India's coach Ravi Shastri has had his day.&nbsp;

The "Champion of Champions" who began his superstardom in Australia in 1985 is clearly out of depth and not the man the country can lean on to get us another World Cup. Indian cricket does not need a Big Brother, it needs a 'high performance' professional&nbsp;coach in the same league as Gary Kirsten and John Wright. The young Team India needs a new approach and a new way of life. Late night parties and lack of will gets us nowhere. It should be obvious with India's listless stay currently in Australia.

Presently Team India is neither a world-beater in Tests nor ODIs. So why do we need a captain or a coach? The BCCI has the remedy but is it ready to take the bitter pill and administer it to Mr. Kohli and his coach? The answer is Maybe No, because there is a fear of repercussion. The question to be asked is - fear who? fans and Twitterati? They won't win us the World Cup, but the right decision will.

The greatest thing which perhaps Shastri can do for Indian cricket is to resign himself - fans and cricket will respect him&nbsp;and Kohli&nbsp;steps aside and showcases his talent just as a batsman - as Sachin once did!&nbsp;Virat&nbsp;is the best in the world with the willow in his hand.&nbsp;

However, it doesn't seem the script will be as&nbsp;simple for the emotional Indian fan and the paying public because nobody wants to take the first step towards victory.

July 9, 2019, ICC Cricket World Cup semi-final, India vs New Zealand. Result: resurgent Kiwis beat Kohli's Men in Blue by 18 runs(the result was never in doubt, except for Dhoni and Jadeja fans).

July 9, 2019, ICC Cricket World Cup semi-final, India vs New Zealand. Result: resurgent Kiwis beat Kohli's Men in Blue by 18 runs(the result was never in doubt, except for Dhoni and Jadeja fans). Fast forward to Cricket World Cup to be held in India in 2023. India vs Pakistan at Eden Gardens in a semi-final encounter. India has the historic record of never being beaten against their arch-rival. But wait, the unthinkable happens. Kohli's India slips to defeat on a disastrous day and he resigns as captain and Shastri steps down. Last year, coach Shastri even said India's Test victory in Australia was "bigger" than India's maiden 1983 World Cup triumph. Remember it was a depleted Australian team without the services of Smith and Warner and their morale was at an all-time low. India's victory was almost on a platter. This time it is different, Aussies are red hot at home. Watch Shastri's comments here: Today, however, is December 19, 2020, the World Cup moment above is still years away and if India and its selectors want to avoid this fate the time to act is now. It is time to groom a new captain and bring in a new coach (a foreigner preferably). The Shastri-Kohli duo have had their day and India is grateful but cricket needs to move on. It is time for the BCCI to ensure a change of guard - if not now, when? MS Dhoni, India's 2011 World Cup-winning captain had his eye set on the Mumbai final in 2008 - three years prior to the big match and he began culling the seniors - Ganguly, Dravid etc from the one-day team. The result was pure fury as fans erupted, but history only remembers the final result: India beat Sri Lanka in the final. The question to be asked is do Shastri and Kohli have a gameplan for 2023? Is Indian cricket set to humiliate its fans at home when the next World Cup will be played in front of 100,000 fans at Eden or Wankhede? Now, the ball is in BCCI's court, if the search for a new coach does not begin it will be too late since 2021 is already upon us. India's coach Ravi Shastri has had his day. The "Champion of Champions" who began his superstardom in Australia in 1985 is clearly out of depth and not the man the country can lean on to get us another World Cup. Indian cricket does not need a Big Brother, it needs a 'high performance' professional coach in the same league as Gary Kirsten and John Wright. The young Team India needs a new approach and a new way of life. Late night parties and lack of will gets us nowhere. It should be obvious with India's listless stay currently in Australia. Presently Team India is neither a world-beater in Tests nor ODIs. So why do we need a captain or a coach? The BCCI has the remedy but is it ready to take the bitter pill and administer it to Mr. Kohli and his coach? The answer is Maybe No, because there is a fear of repercussion. The question to be asked is - fear who? fans and Twitterati? They won't win us the World Cup, but the right decision will. The greatest thing which perhaps Shastri can do for Indian cricket is to resign himself - fans and cricket will respect him and Kohli steps aside and showcases his talent just as a batsman - as Sachin once did! Virat is the best in the world with the willow in his hand. However, it doesn't seem the script will be as simple for the emotional Indian fan and the paying public because nobody wants to take the first step towards victory.

India's self destructive duo: Fire Shastri and axe captain Kohli, save India please BCCI

Australia's world-class bowling attack folded India for their lowest ever Test score on Saturday. Hazlewood's fiver and Cummins' four wickets restricted India for 36 runs in a batting collapse.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/christmas-mood-sunil-gavaskar-takes-dig-at-team-indias-poor-fielding-effort-350840" hreflang="en">'Christmas mood': Sunil Gavaskar takes dig at Team India's poor fielding effort</a>

India began their day 3 of the first Test match looking to extend their 62-run lead and build a competitive total for the hosts.&nbsp;

India's previous lowest score in Test cricket came back in 1974 when they were bowled out for 42 runs against England at Lord's.&nbsp;

India's 36 is the lowest total in the current century for any team.&nbsp;

Lowest totals in Test cricket

<ul>
	<li>26 NZ v Eng Auckland 1955</li>
	<li>30 SA v Eng Port Elizabeth 1896</li>
	<li>30 SA v Eng Edgbaston 1924</li>
	<li>35 SA v Eng Cape Town 1899</li>
	<li>36 Aus v Eng Edgbaston 1902</li>
	<li>36 SA v Aus Melbourne 1932</li>
	<li>36 Ind v Aus Adelaide 2020 *</li>
	<li>38 Ire v Eng Lord's 2019&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

It is also the second time when no batsman reached double figures in an innings.&nbsp;

No batsman reaching double figures in an innings

<ul>
	<li>SA v Eng Edgbaston 1924: 30 all out; Highest 7 by Herbie Taylor (extras 11)</li>
	<li>Ind v Aus Adelaide 2020: 36 all out; Highest 9 by Mayank Agarwal</li>
</ul>

Their capitulation left Australia needing 90 to win, with Joe Burns and Matthew Wade knocking off 15 of them before the dinner break.

After dinner, the hosts are cruising to victory with an unbeaten 54-run opening partnership between Joe Burns and Matthew Wade.

Australia's world-class bowling attack folded India for their lowest ever Test score on Saturday. Hazlewood's fiver and Cummins' four wickets restricted India for 36 runs in a batting collapse.

Australia's world-class bowling attack folded India for their lowest ever Test score on Saturday. Hazlewood's fiver and Cummins' four wickets restricted India for 36 runs in a batting collapse. Also read: 'Christmas mood': Sunil Gavaskar takes dig at Team India's poor fielding effort India began their day 3 of the first Test match looking to extend their 62-run lead and build a competitive total for the hosts. India's previous lowest score in Test cricket came back in 1974 when they were bowled out for 42 runs against England at Lord's. India's 36 is the lowest total in the current century for any team. Lowest totals in Test cricket 26 NZ v Eng Auckland 1955 30 SA v Eng Port Elizabeth 1896 30 SA v Eng Edgbaston 1924 35 SA v Eng Cape Town 1899 36 Aus v Eng Edgbaston 1902 36 SA v Aus Melbourne 1932 36 Ind v Aus Adelaide 2020 * 38 Ire v Eng Lord's 2019 It is also the second time when no batsman reached double figures in an innings. No batsman reaching double figures in an innings SA v Eng Edgbaston 1924: 30 all out; Highest 7 by Herbie Taylor (extras 11) Ind v Aus Adelaide 2020: 36 all out; Highest 9 by Mayank Agarwal Their capitulation left Australia needing 90 to win, with Joe Burns and Matthew Wade knocking off 15 of them before the dinner break. After dinner, the hosts are cruising to victory with an unbeaten 54-run opening partnership between Joe Burns and Matthew Wade.

Ind vs Aus 1st Test: Aussie pacers demolish India for their lowest total in Test cricket

Since the successful conclusion of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 in the UAE, congratulatory messages have been flooding in for the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the organisers of the T20 tournament. While fans and formers cricketers took to social media platform to congratulate Sourav Ganguly-led BCCI for pulling off IPL 2020 amid COVID-19 pandemic, Team India head coach Ravi Shastri’s message grabbed the eyeballs after the final, where Mumbai Indians defeated Delhi Capitals by five wickets to lift the coveted trophy for the fifth time.

Shastri took to Twitter to thank the organisers and the medical team for successfully conducting IPL 2020 in the UAE as he said that they did everything to make sure a ‘dream IPL’ went ahead.

“Take a BOW @JayShah, Brijesh Patel, @hemangamin, and the medical staff of the @BCCI for pulling off the impossible and making it a Dream @IPL #IPL2020 #IPLfinal,” tweeted Shastri.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-vs-ind-australia-announce-strong-17-man-squad-for-india-tests-pucovski-green-get-call-up-342602" hreflang="en">AUS vs IND: Australia announce strong 17-man squad for India Tests; Pucovski, Green get call-up</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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Take a BOW <a href="https://twitter.com/JayShah?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JayShah</a>, Brijesh Patel, <a href="https://twitter.com/hemangamin?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@hemangamin</a> and the medical staff of the <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCCI</a> for pulling off the impossible and making it a Dream <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IPL</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2020</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPLfinal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPLfinal</a> <a href="https://t.co/5rL6oqOLmC">pic.twitter.com/5rL6oqOLmC</a>
— Ravi Shastri (@RaviShastriOfc) <a href="https://twitter.com/RaviShastriOfc/status/1326225946400198666?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Here's how fans reacted to Ravi Shastri's tweet:</h2>

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<a href="https://t.co/qWsCnD0g93">pic.twitter.com/qWsCnD0g93</a>
— 🇨🇦🇦🇪🇮🇳 Om Lal Mehta (@omlalmehta) <a href="https://twitter.com/omlalmehta/status/1326233771344064514?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"Ganguly " <a href="https://t.co/oIROLiLG7x">pic.twitter.com/oIROLiLG7x</a>
— Silly Point (@FarziCricketer) <a href="https://twitter.com/FarziCricketer/status/1326231785395552256?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Forgot to mention <a href="https://twitter.com/SGanguly99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SGanguly99</a> 🙂🙂may be jealousy, can't digest the fact that dada is his boss. Here is something that might help <a href="https://t.co/QLlTNryQeF">pic.twitter.com/QLlTNryQeF</a>
— tanupam sarkar (@tanupams) <a href="https://twitter.com/tanupams/status/1326769264255229955?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 12, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RaviShastri?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RaviShastri</a> with age this happens. Waise bhi Ravi jee ke muh se intnay ucchay aadmi <a href="https://twitter.com/SGanguly99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SGanguly99</a> Ka naam aacha nhi laagta. We all know Dada made it possible. Learn from <a href="https://twitter.com/ShaneWarne?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ShaneWarne</a> what to write and how to congratulate team. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2020</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2020final?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2020final</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DadaMadeItPossible?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DadaMadeItPossible</a>
— Saurabh Ganguly 🐥 (@Gangulytweets) <a href="https://twitter.com/Gangulytweets/status/1326582804524617728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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U forgot to mention n tag the main man ... The <a href="https://twitter.com/SGanguly99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SGanguly99</a> ... আমাদের আদরের দাদা ❤ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPLfinal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPLfinal</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MumbaiIndians?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MumbaiIndians</a> <a href="https://t.co/LXEA4DJBuD">pic.twitter.com/LXEA4DJBuD</a>
— ফেলুদা (@feludaa) <a href="https://twitter.com/feludaa/status/1326261202515845126?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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U missed the real boss name <a href="https://t.co/LfWMsgdbzd">pic.twitter.com/LfWMsgdbzd</a>
— Arindam Banerjee (@_Arindam_Tweet) <a href="https://twitter.com/_Arindam_Tweet/status/1326252583208448001?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-vs-ind-retro-jersey-and-customised-ppe-kits-new-look-team-india-all-set-for-australia-tour-342590" hreflang="en">'Retro' jersey and customised PPE kits - 'New look' Team India all set for Australia tour</a>

While Shastri mentioned almost everyone from the top brass of the BCCI in his tweet, he missed out BCCI president Ganguly, which irked a few fans on social media.

The IPL 2020 was earlier indefinitely postponed due to the COVID-19 outbreak with the lucrative tournament missing the April-May window. However, the BCCI stepped in to make sure that IPL 2020 gets the September-November window and decided to shift the tournament to the UAE. BCCI came up with the SOPs and ensured the smooth flow of all the logistics including the bio-secure bubble arrangements in the UAE.

Sourav Ganguly, speaking to India Today, had said: "The world needed sport, the world needed life to get back to normal. The entire BCCI team, not just the office-bearers, the employees and staff who work on the ground, they have been in Dubai for the last 2 and half months have pulled off a fantastic thing.

"And heartiest congratulations to all the players, each team for making this successful, without their discipline, this could not have been successful," Ganguly had said. 
&nbsp;

Since the successful conclusion of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 in the UAE, congratulatory messages have been flooding in for the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the organisers of the T20 tournament.

Since the successful conclusion of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020 in the UAE, congratulatory messages have been flooding in for the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the organisers of the T20 tournament. While fans and formers cricketers took to social media platform to congratulate Sourav Ganguly-led BCCI for pulling off IPL 2020 amid COVID-19 pandemic, Team India head coach Ravi Shastri’s message grabbed the eyeballs after the final, where Mumbai Indians defeated Delhi Capitals by five wickets to lift the coveted trophy for the fifth time. Shastri took to Twitter to thank the organisers and the medical team for successfully conducting IPL 2020 in the UAE as he said that they did everything to make sure a ‘dream IPL’ went ahead. “Take a BOW @JayShah, Brijesh Patel, @hemangamin, and the medical staff of the @BCCI for pulling off the impossible and making it a Dream @IPL #IPL2020 #IPLfinal,” tweeted Shastri. ALSO READ: AUS vs IND: Australia announce strong 17-man squad for India Tests; Pucovski, Green get call-up Take a BOW @JayShah, Brijesh Patel, @hemangamin and the medical staff of the @BCCI for pulling off the impossible and making it a Dream @IPL #IPL2020 #IPLfinal pic.twitter.com/5rL6oqOLmC — Ravi Shastri (@RaviShastriOfc) November 10, 2020 × Here's how fans reacted to Ravi Shastri's tweet: pic.twitter.com/qWsCnD0g93 — 🇨🇦🇦🇪🇮🇳 Om Lal Mehta (@omlalmehta) November 10, 2020 × "Ganguly " pic.twitter.com/oIROLiLG7x — Silly Point (@FarziCricketer) November 10, 2020 × Forgot to mention @SGanguly99 🙂🙂may be jealousy, can't digest the fact that dada is his boss. Here is something that might help pic.twitter.com/QLlTNryQeF — tanupam sarkar (@tanupams) November 12, 2020 × #RaviShastri with age this happens. Waise bhi Ravi jee ke muh se intnay ucchay aadmi @SGanguly99 Ka naam aacha nhi laagta. We all know Dada made it possible. Learn from @ShaneWarne what to write and how to congratulate team. #IPL2020 #IPL2020final #DadaMadeItPossible — Saurabh Ganguly 🐥 (@Gangulytweets) November 11, 2020 × U forgot to mention n tag the main man ... The @SGanguly99 ... আমাদের আদরের দাদা ❤ #IPLfinal #MumbaiIndians pic.twitter.com/LXEA4DJBuD — ফেলুদা (@feludaa) November 10, 2020 × U missed the real boss name pic.twitter.com/LfWMsgdbzd — Arindam Banerjee (@_Arindam_Tweet) November 10, 2020 × ALSO READ: 'Retro' jersey and customised PPE kits - 'New look' Team India all set for Australia tour While Shastri mentioned almost everyone from the top brass of the BCCI in his tweet, he missed out BCCI president Ganguly, which irked a few fans on social media. The IPL 2020 was earlier indefinitely postponed due to the COVID-19 outbreak with the lucrative tournament missing the April-May window. However, the BCCI stepped in to make sure that IPL 2020 gets the September-November window and decided to shift the tournament to the UAE. BCCI came up with the SOPs and ensured the smooth flow of all the logistics including the bio-secure bubble arrangements in the UAE. Sourav Ganguly, speaking to India Today, had said: "The world needed sport, the world needed life to get back to normal. The entire BCCI team, not just the office-bearers, the employees and staff who work on the ground, they have been in Dubai for the last 2 and half months have pulled off a fantastic thing. "And heartiest congratulations to all the players, each team for making this successful, without their discipline, this could not have been successful," Ganguly had said.

Ravi Shastri draws flak for missing out Sourav Ganguly in IPL 2020 congratulatory tweet

Plenty of questions are being raised on Rohit Sharma’s absence from the Indian squad for the upcoming tour of Australia. While Rohit had injured his hamstring while playing for Mumbai Indians in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, he has been seen hitting the nets for his franchise, raising further questions whether Rohit will be available for the Australia tour or not. Reacting to Rohit’s omission from the Indian squad for their tour of Australia, Indian head coach Ravi Shastri said that the call taken by the selection committee upon receiving updates from the medical team.

While Rohit has not been ruled out of IPL 2020 yet, he has missed last four matches for Mumbai Indians with Kieron Pollard taking up the captaincy duties in his absence.&nbsp;

Furthermore, Team India is set to leave for Australia soon after the completion of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, whose final is scheduled on November 10. This will be India’s first international assignment since the restart after COVID-19-enforced break.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/australia-vs-india-full-schedule-dates-venues-and-all-you-need-to-know-338518">Australia vs India: Full schedule, dates, venues and all you need to know</a>

"It's being handled by the people in charge of the medical part of it. We don't get involved in that. They have submitted a report to the selectors and they have gone about their business," said Shastri in an exclusive interaction with Times Now.

"I have no say neither I am a part of the selection committee. All I know is the medical report which says he could be in danger of injuring himself again," he added.

Interestingly, Mayank Agarwal has also been missing from Kings XI Punjab since October 20 but was named in all three squads for the Australia series.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/were-excited-kieron-pollard-gives-a-major-update-on-rohit-sharmas-injury-339299" hreflang="en">'We’re excited': Kieron Pollard gives a major update on Rohit Sharma's injury</a>

Meanwhile, Pollard, after MI’s win over Delhi Capitals on Saturday, said that Rohit is recovering well while hoping he will be back with the squad soon.

"Rohit is getting better and hopefully he will be back soon," said Mumbai Indians' stand-in skipper Kieron Pollard after his side's win over Delhi Capitals on Saturday. 
&nbsp;

Plenty of questions are being raised on Rohit Sharma’s absence from the Indian squad for the upcoming tour of Australia. While Rohit had injured his hamstring while playing for Mumbai Indians in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, he has been seen hitting the nets for his franchise, raising further questions whether Rohit will be available for the Australia tour or not.

Plenty of questions are being raised on Rohit Sharma’s absence from the Indian squad for the upcoming tour of Australia. While Rohit had injured his hamstring while playing for Mumbai Indians in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, he has been seen hitting the nets for his franchise, raising further questions whether Rohit will be available for the Australia tour or not. Reacting to Rohit’s omission from the Indian squad for their tour of Australia, Indian head coach Ravi Shastri said that the call taken by the selection committee upon receiving updates from the medical team. While Rohit has not been ruled out of IPL 2020 yet, he has missed last four matches for Mumbai Indians with Kieron Pollard taking up the captaincy duties in his absence. Furthermore, Team India is set to leave for Australia soon after the completion of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, whose final is scheduled on November 10. This will be India’s first international assignment since the restart after COVID-19-enforced break. ALSO READ: Australia vs India: Full schedule, dates, venues and all you need to know "It's being handled by the people in charge of the medical part of it. We don't get involved in that. They have submitted a report to the selectors and they have gone about their business," said Shastri in an exclusive interaction with Times Now. "I have no say neither I am a part of the selection committee. All I know is the medical report which says he could be in danger of injuring himself again," he added. Interestingly, Mayank Agarwal has also been missing from Kings XI Punjab since October 20 but was named in all three squads for the Australia series. ALSO READ: 'We’re excited': Kieron Pollard gives a major update on Rohit Sharma's injury Meanwhile, Pollard, after MI’s win over Delhi Capitals on Saturday, said that Rohit is recovering well while hoping he will be back with the squad soon. "Rohit is getting better and hopefully he will be back soon," said Mumbai Indians' stand-in skipper Kieron Pollard after his side's win over Delhi Capitals on Saturday.

'I have no say': Ravi Shastri reacts to Rohit Sharma's omission from Indian squad for Australia tour

Indian cricket team’s support staff along with test specialist players are likely to fly to Dubai on October 25 in a bid to prepare for India’s tour of Australia before flying Down Under with the entire squad after the final of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, scheduled to be played on November 10.

Indian support staff headed by Ravi Shastri along with test specialist batsmen Cheteshwar Pujara and Hanuma Vihari are ready to depart for a gruelling tour – India’s first international assignment since the COVID-19 outbreak. While Pujara and Vihari haven’t been named in the squad, it is expected that the duo will feature in the four-match Test squad against Tim Paine-led Australia.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indias-tour-of-australia-gets-green-light-check-full-schedule-337092" hreflang="en">India's tour of Australia gets green light; check full schedule</a>

The selection committee is also expected to meet in a couple of days, according to a report in the Mumbai Mirror.

The latest development comes after Cricket Australia received a green signal from the New South Wales authorities to allow the Indian contingent to practice during the quarantine period.

Sydney has now become the arrival spot for the Indian team, which will play four of the six white-ball matches (ODI and T20Is) at the SCG with the remaining two set to be played in Canberra.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-to-select-32-member-indian-squad-for-australia-tour-no-families-allowed-in-bio-bubble-report-336866" hreflang="en">BCCI to select 32-member Indian squad for Australia tour, no families allowed in bio-bubble: Report</a>

“We are all set to host our Indian friends, all the permissions have been obtained,” an upbeat CA chief Earl Eddings told Mirror yesterday. The series was financially very important for the CA as a whopping $ 300 million are at stake for the Australian board.

<h2>India’s tour of Australia (ODI, T20I and Tests) – Tentative Schedule:&nbsp;</h2>

<ul>
	<li>Australia vs India 1st ODI: November 27 at Sydney Cricket Ground</li>
	<li>Australia vs India 2nd ODI: November 29 at Sydney Cricket Ground</li>
	<li>Australia vs India 3rd ODI: December 1 at Manuka Oval</li>
	<li>Australia vs India 1st T20I: December 4 at Manuka Oval</li>
	<li>Australia vs India 2nd T20I: December 6 at Sydney Cricket Ground</li>
	<li>Australia vs India 3rd T20I: December 8 at Sydney Cricket Ground</li>
	<li>Australia vs India 1st Test (Day and Night): December 17-21 at Adelaide Oval</li>
	<li>Australia vs India 2nd Test (Boxing Day): December 26-30 at Melbourne Cricket Ground/Adelaide Oval</li>
	<li>Australia vs India 3rd Test: January 7-11 at Sydney Cricket Ground</li>
	<li>Australia vs India 4th Test: January 15-19 at Brisbane 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Indian cricket team’s support staff along with test specialist players are likely to fly to Dubai on October 25 in a bid to prepare for India’s tour of Australia before flying Down Under with the entire squad after the final of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, scheduled to be played on November 10.

Indian cricket team’s support staff along with test specialist players are likely to fly to Dubai on October 25 in a bid to prepare for India’s tour of Australia before flying Down Under with the entire squad after the final of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2020, scheduled to be played on November 10. Indian support staff headed by Ravi Shastri along with test specialist batsmen Cheteshwar Pujara and Hanuma Vihari are ready to depart for a gruelling tour – India’s first international assignment since the COVID-19 outbreak. While Pujara and Vihari haven’t been named in the squad, it is expected that the duo will feature in the four-match Test squad against Tim Paine-led Australia. ALSO READ: India's tour of Australia gets green light; check full schedule The selection committee is also expected to meet in a couple of days, according to a report in the Mumbai Mirror. The latest development comes after Cricket Australia received a green signal from the New South Wales authorities to allow the Indian contingent to practice during the quarantine period. Sydney has now become the arrival spot for the Indian team, which will play four of the six white-ball matches (ODI and T20Is) at the SCG with the remaining two set to be played in Canberra. ALSO READ: BCCI to select 32-member Indian squad for Australia tour, no families allowed in bio-bubble: Report “We are all set to host our Indian friends, all the permissions have been obtained,” an upbeat CA chief Earl Eddings told Mirror yesterday. The series was financially very important for the CA as a whopping $ 300 million are at stake for the Australian board. India’s tour of Australia (ODI, T20I and Tests) – Tentative Schedule: Australia vs India 1st ODI: November 27 at Sydney Cricket Ground Australia vs India 2nd ODI: November 29 at Sydney Cricket Ground Australia vs India 3rd ODI: December 1 at Manuka Oval Australia vs India 1st T20I: December 4 at Manuka Oval Australia vs India 2nd T20I: December 6 at Sydney Cricket Ground Australia vs India 3rd T20I: December 8 at Sydney Cricket Ground Australia vs India 1st Test (Day and Night): December 17-21 at Adelaide Oval Australia vs India 2nd Test (Boxing Day): December 26-30 at Melbourne Cricket Ground/Adelaide Oval Australia vs India 3rd Test: January 7-11 at Sydney Cricket Ground Australia vs India 4th Test: January 15-19 at Brisbane

Australia vs India: Support staff, Test specialists to fly on October 25

De Villiers played a crucial role in Royal Challengers' victory against the Kolkata Knight Riders at Sharjah Cricket Stadium after smashing 73 runs off 33 balls (not out) on Monday. His blistering batting performance powered RCB to 194.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-de-villiers-and-bowlers-shine-as-rcb-thrash-kkr-by-82-runs-334833" hreflang="en">IPL 2020: de Villiers and bowlers shine as RCB thrash KKR by 82 runs</a>

Indian head coach Ravi Shastri praised De Villers' batting against KKR and urged him to nd his retirement and return to play international cricket for South Africa.

He took to Twitter and wrote: "Now, that the penny has dropped. What one saw last night was unreal. And the feeling is the same waking up. @ABdeVilliers17, the game in these trying times or otherwise needs you back in the international arena and out of retirement. The game will be better off".

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Now, that the penny has dropped. What one saw last night was unreal. And the feeling is the same waking up. <a href="https://twitter.com/ABdeVilliers17?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ABdeVilliers17</a>, the game in these trying times or otherwise needs you back in the international arena and out of retirement. The game will be better off <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RCBvKKR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RCBvKKR</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2020</a> <a href="https://t.co/s9BG6MxiCv">pic.twitter.com/s9BG6MxiCv</a>
— Ravi Shastri (@RaviShastriOfc) <a href="https://twitter.com/RaviShastriOfc/status/1315872123580305409?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The South African announced his retirement from international cricket in May of 2018. The news came as a major hit to the Proteas side that they ended seventh in the 2019 ICC World Cup. However, De Villiers offered to come out of retirement to help the team before the 2019 World Cup. But the SA management including captain du Plessis and head coach Ottis Gibson had turned it down because they felt it would be unfair on those who had worked hard to make it to SA's World Cup squad.

De Villiers played a crucial role in Royal Challengers' victory against the Kolkata Knight Riders at Sharjah Cricket Stadium after smashing 73 runs off 33 balls (not out) on Monday.

De Villiers played a crucial role in Royal Challengers' victory against the Kolkata Knight Riders at Sharjah Cricket Stadium after smashing 73 runs off 33 balls (not out) on Monday. His blistering batting performance powered RCB to 194. Also read: IPL 2020: de Villiers and bowlers shine as RCB thrash KKR by 82 runs Indian head coach Ravi Shastri praised De Villers' batting against KKR and urged him to nd his retirement and return to play international cricket for South Africa. He took to Twitter and wrote: "Now, that the penny has dropped. What one saw last night was unreal. And the feeling is the same waking up. @ABdeVilliers17, the game in these trying times or otherwise needs you back in the international arena and out of retirement. The game will be better off". Now, that the penny has dropped. What one saw last night was unreal. And the feeling is the same waking up. @ABdeVilliers17, the game in these trying times or otherwise needs you back in the international arena and out of retirement. The game will be better off #RCBvKKR #IPL2020 pic.twitter.com/s9BG6MxiCv — Ravi Shastri (@RaviShastriOfc) October 13, 2020 × The South African announced his retirement from international cricket in May of 2018. The news came as a major hit to the Proteas side that they ended seventh in the 2019 ICC World Cup. However, De Villiers offered to come out of retirement to help the team before the 2019 World Cup. But the SA management including captain du Plessis and head coach Ottis Gibson had turned it down because they felt it would be unfair on those who had worked hard to make it to SA's World Cup squad.

'Game needs you back': Ravi Shastri's special message for AB de Villiers

Former Australian batsman Michael Slater reckons that Indian captain Virat Kohli has bonded well with head coach Ravi Shastri as they both are of strong personalities. Under Kohli and Shastri, India have achieved greater success in recent years including the historic Test series win Down Under against Australia in 2018/19.

Slater is of the view that both Kohli and Shastri have their hearts on their sleeve while adding the latter is a big personality. The former Aussie batter further said that the duo has worked so well and their relationship has helped Indian cricket’s tempo.

“Ravi and Virat probably challenge each other enough but there is such respect between them that it works,” Slater said on the show Cricket Connected.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipls-million-dollar-chinese-connection-317927" hreflang="en">IPL's million-dollar Chinese connection</a>

“If Ravi is nodding his head when Virat is speaking and vice versa, the rest of them even if they don’t agree would be nodding their heads,” Slater added.

“Both of them have their heart on their sleeve. I have worked with Ravi for so long in the commentary box, so I have got to know him and he was one of my great mates when we worked together. He is a big personality,” he further said.

“But obviously there are subtle differences that allows them to really work well together. But it has been a great synergy and a great relationship and I think it has helped Indian cricket’s tempo,” he added.

Whereas former Indian pacer Ashish Nehra is of the view that their relationship work because Shastri gives ample space to Kohli to express himself.

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-saliva-ban-to-red-cards-for-coughing-changes-brought-by-covid-19-in-the-world-of-sports-317914">From saliva ban to red cards for coughing: Changes brought by COVID-19 in the world of sports</a>

“Ravi Shastri gives Virat Kohli his space, that he needs. Virat Kohli knows the type of person Ravi Shastri is and what can be extracted from him,” Nehra said on the same show.

“Ravi Shastri is a great motivator, that is Ravi bhai’s strength. He gives you a lot of confidence. If you are stuck in quicksand till your neck, he will ask you to push with your hands twice and you would come out. Virat Kohli also likes leading from the front. Both have similar personalities. So, it is very good between the two of them,” he added. 
&nbsp;

Former Australian batsman Michael Slater reckons that Indian captain Virat Kohli has bonded well with head coach Ravi Shastri as they both are of strong personalities.

Former Australian batsman Michael Slater reckons that Indian captain Virat Kohli has bonded well with head coach Ravi Shastri as they both are of strong personalities. Under Kohli and Shastri, India have achieved greater success in recent years including the historic Test series win Down Under against Australia in 2018/19. Slater is of the view that both Kohli and Shastri have their hearts on their sleeve while adding the latter is a big personality. The former Aussie batter further said that the duo has worked so well and their relationship has helped Indian cricket’s tempo. “Ravi and Virat probably challenge each other enough but there is such respect between them that it works,” Slater said on the show Cricket Connected. ALSO READ: IPL's million-dollar Chinese connection “If Ravi is nodding his head when Virat is speaking and vice versa, the rest of them even if they don’t agree would be nodding their heads,” Slater added. “Both of them have their heart on their sleeve. I have worked with Ravi for so long in the commentary box, so I have got to know him and he was one of my great mates when we worked together. He is a big personality,” he further said. “But obviously there are subtle differences that allows them to really work well together. But it has been a great synergy and a great relationship and I think it has helped Indian cricket’s tempo,” he added. Whereas former Indian pacer Ashish Nehra is of the view that their relationship work because Shastri gives ample space to Kohli to express himself. IN PICS | From saliva ban to red cards for coughing: Changes brought by COVID-19 in the world of sports “Ravi Shastri gives Virat Kohli his space, that he needs. Virat Kohli knows the type of person Ravi Shastri is and what can be extracted from him,” Nehra said on the same show. “Ravi Shastri is a great motivator, that is Ravi bhai’s strength. He gives you a lot of confidence. If you are stuck in quicksand till your neck, he will ask you to push with your hands twice and you would come out. Virat Kohli also likes leading from the front. Both have similar personalities. So, it is very good between the two of them,” he added.

‘Both have their...’: Michael Slater on why Virat Kohli-Ravi Shastri is a hit pair

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