Name Hindi: रवि शास्त्री / Gender Coach
Ravi Shastri: Life and Cricket Career
Born on May 27, 1962, in Mumbai, India, Ravishankar Jayadritha Shastri, widely known as Ravi Shastri, is one of the exceptional cricket personalities both during his time as an all-rounder cricketer and after his active sports career. He has significantly contributed to Indian cricket not only through his extraordinary performances as a player but also via his roles as an inspirational coach and commentator.
Early Years
The prodigious journey of Ravi Shastri began at a young age. His passion for cricket was evident from the start, which led him to play for various Under-age tournaments across Mumbai. As a student at Don Bosco School in Matunga, he honed his cricket skills.
Cricket Career
- National Level: Shastri’s professional outing was with the Bombay team (now Mumbai team) in domestic cricket. During this stage of his career, he acquired comprehensive experiences that prepared him for international competition.
- International Debut: In February 1981, Ravi Shastri made his debut for the Indian team against New Zealand. He was initially considered as more of a batsman than a bowler. However, over time he refined his bowling skills to become an impactful all-rounder.
- All-round Performances: One of Shastri’s most notable milestones came in Australia during the Benson & Hedges World Championship of Cricket in 1985. He played tremendously well in both batting and bowling, leading India to victory and himself being declared ‘Champion of Champions’ during that tournament.
Post Playing Career
Ravi Shastri’s charisma and comprehensive understanding of cricket didn’t end with his playing career. He transcended into a successful commentator, providing many iconic phrases that are widely recognized among cricket fans such as “like a tracer bullet.” In 2014, he made a remarkable transition from commentary to the practical side of cricket, starting his second innings as the team director for India and later became the full-time coach in 2017 after serving as an interim one in 2015-16.
Legacy
Ravi Shastri is truly an all-rounder not only on the field but also off it. His varied contributions have shaped him into a legendary figure in Indian Cricket. Regardless of whether you remember him by performance or personality, Ravi Shastri’s place in Indian and world cricket is significant and indelible.
In conclusion, Ravi Shastri‘s journey is marked by his adaptability, dynamism, and immense love for cricket. As this gem continues to inspire new generations of cricketers, his legacy reconstructs itself even further – now more deeply embedded than ever before within cricket’s grand, enduring narrative.
