Former India coach Ravi Shastri is known for his forthright attitude and unique tactics that pushed the players to perform their best. Shastri, who coached India from 2016 to 2021, formed a formidable pace attack comprising Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Ishant Sharma, Umesh Yadav and Mohammed Siraj, which helped India to earn a lot of match-winning performances in overseas conditions during his tenure.
India quick Ishant Sharma shared his experience on Cricbuzz Specials show ‘The Rise of New India’, where he appreciated Shastri for his contribution to the betterment of the team. Ishant particularly exalted Shastri’s positivity and his skill of comprehending a player and getting the best out of him.
“Ravi bhai has had a lot of impact on our growth. The biggest was that he would always have positive things to say, even if we endured a poor match. Another one of his strengths is that he knows how to bring the best out of a player. Like with me, he knows that if he has to make me give my 100 per cent, I need to get angry. So he would say things that hurt you, pinch you. It drove you mad,” Ishant said.
Shastri’s partnership with Virat Kohli became a hit as they dominated Australia, England, New Zealand and South Africa in the away series. However, at times, Shastri also faced fierce criticism for his contentious comments that drew the attention of people and gave his critics a chance to come heavily on him. Despite this, he played a crucial role in India’s aggressive playing style and its success in overseas conditions.
