Ravi Shastri, has etched his legacy both on and off the field. From his iconic moments as a cricketer to his influential roles in coaching and commentary, Shastri’s journey is a tapestry of passion, dedication, and occasional controversies.
Epic Journey of Ravi Shastri: From Cricket Star to Coaching Maestro
Ravi Shastri had a long road, transitioning from a young player with a promising batting style to a revered coach, is a proof to his dedication and passion.
In this section, we will go beyond into his contributions. Both as a player and coach, he has left an indelible mark on Indian cricket.
Early Life and Domestic Career
Born on May 27, 1962, in Mumbai, India, Ravi Shastri’s age reflects a life dedicated to cricket. His birth place, Mumbai, is known for producing cricketing legends.
Ravi Shastri family, especially his mother, played a pivotal role in nurturing his passion for the sport. Shastri’s family hailed from Mangalore, Karnataka, but he grew up in Bombay.
He attended Don Bosco High School and later R.A. Podar College. His cricketing journey began early, making his debut in First-Class cricket at just 16.
In his initial season, he showcased his prowess by scoring four centuries and nine fifties. This performance paved the way for his selection in the Under-19 World Cup in England, where he was named Player of the Series.
International Career
Ravi Shastri cricketer, made his international debut in 1981, with his Test debut against New Zealand and his ODI debut against England.
Initially starting as a bowler, Shastri evolved into an all-rounder, making significant contributions with both bat and ball.
He played 80 test matches, amassing significant runs and taking crucial wickets. Some of his notable achievements include:
- Achieving the record of the fastest double century in First-Class cricket, taking just 123 balls.
- Making history by hitting Ravi Shastri six sixes in an over, becoming the second player after Sir Garfield Sobers to achieve this feat.
- Playing a pivotal role for his country in the 1983 World Cup and the Benson & Hedges World Championship of Cricket in Australia in 1985.
- Captaining India in 17 Test matches and achieving a commendable win-loss record.
Post-Retirement and Commentary
After hanging up his boots, Ravi Shastri transitioned into a successful career in commentary. His unique style and eloquence made him a fan favorite.
His Ravi Shastri commentary during iconic moments, like the 2007 T20 Cricket World Cup final against Pakistan and MS Dhoni‘s winning six in the 2011 World Cup final, are etched in the memories of cricket enthusiasts.
Coaching Career
Ravi Shastri’s cricket career took another turn when he began his coaching journey in July 2017. Under his guidance:
- India achieved its first Test series victory against Australia since 2009.
- India rose to the top of the ICC Test rankings in 2019.
- India clinched both the 2018 Asia Cup and the 2019 World Cup.
- India managed to win 25 out of 43 test matches, achieving a win percentage of 60.00.
- In ODIs, India won 51 out of 76 matches, with a win percentage of 67%.
- In T20s, India secured 40 victories out of 60 matches, with a win percentage of 66%.
Shastri’s coaching style emphasized nurturing young talent, with players like Rishabh Pant and KL Rahul flourishing under his guidance.
However, his tenure wasn’t without criticism, especially after India’s loss in the World Test Championship to New Zealand.
A Glimpse into Shastri’s Personal Life
Ravi Shastri, the former Indian all-rounder and head coach of the Indian cricket team, has always been a figure of intrigue both on and off the field.
His personal life, much like his Ravi Shastri career, has been filled with highs, lows, and moments that have captured the nation’s attention.
Marriage and Relationships
Ravi Shastri’s personal life has always been under the media spotlight. He got married to Ritu Singh on March 18, 1990. Ritu, a doctor by profession, is also a trained classical dancer.
She comes from an army background, with her father being a retired army colonel. The couple was blessed with a daughter named Aleka Shastri.
However, after 22 years of marriage, the couple decided to part ways in 2012, leading many to question, “is Ravi Shastri married?“.
In the 1980s, a steamy affair between Ravi Shastri and Bollywood actress Amrita Singh caught the nation’s attention.
Their relationship was the talk of the town, especially after they posed for the cover of Cine Blitz magazine in November 1986. However, the relationship did not culminate in marriage.
This chapter of Ravi Shastri and Amrita Singh remains one of the most talked-about episodes in his personal life. Rumors also linked Shastri with Bollywood actress Nimrat Kaur, sparking Ravi Shastri girlfriend speculations.
However, both Shastri and Kaur dismissed these rumors, with Shastri famously referring to them as “the biggest load of cow dung“.
Flamboyance and Lifestyle
Ravi Shastri’s flamboyant lifestyle has often been a topic of discussion. Known for his love for hard drinks, Shastri has been candid about his partying ways.
In a chat show “Breakfast with Champions“, he narrated an amusing incident from his Under-19 days when he was caught drinking beer in a hostel dormitory.
When confronted, Shastri defended his actions by stating that he drinks beer with the man he respects the most in the world – his father.
In another candid chat with Gaurav Kapur, Shastri opened up about his relationships and lifestyle. He mentioned;
“When God has given you things to use, you use it. It’s important you make the most of the tools you have at disposal”
[livescore]
How Much Does He Have? Net Worth and Assets
Ravi Shastri journey, in and out the cricket pitch has been nothing short of remarkable. This journey, coupled with his various ventures, has contributed to his substantial Ravi Shastri net worth.
Net Worth
Ravi Shastri’s net worth is estimated to be around $11 Million. When converted, the Ravi Shastri net worth in rupees stands at approximately Rs.85 Crores.
Over the past few years, there has been a 24% hike in his net worth. A significant portion of his income stems from his role as the head coach of the Indian Cricket team under the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
His Ravi Shastri salary, as reported in 2019, was an annual package ranging from Rs. 9.5 crores to 10 crores from the BCCI.
Business Ventures and Endorsements
In 2003, Ravi Shastri collaborated with Rediffusion DY&R to launch a talent management company named Showdiff Worldwide.
This venture further added to his income. Additionally, he has recently signed a partnership deal with FanCode, a leading digital platform for sports enthusiasts.
Assets
Ravi Shastri owns a luxurious residence in Mumbai, India. He purchased this opulent home in 2001, and its current estimated value stands at around Rs.11.2 Crores.
Shastri has a penchant for luxury cars. His collection boasts of premium brands like Mercedes Benz, Ford, and BMW. He recently added a new luxury car to his collection, which reportedly cost him $100,000.
Beyond Ravi Shastri’s Controversies
Ravi Shastri, a stalwart of Indian cricket, has been a figure of admiration and intrigue throughout his Ravi Shastri career.
While his achievements on the field and as a coach are well-documented, Shastri has also been at the center of several controversies that have made headlines over the years.
1. Dropped as the Team Director
In 2014, following a disappointing tour of England, Ravi Shastri was appointed as the team director for the Indian cricket team.
However, in a surprising turn of events, he was asked to leave his position unceremoniously in 2016. Anil Kumble was chosen as his replacement.
Shastri, feeling slighted by the decision, believed there was a plot against him. He stating that he was asked to set aside his broadcasting career to join the team, only to be replaced without any clear explanation.
2. Ambati Rayudu’s World Cup Omission
One of the most debated decisions during Shastri’s tenure as head coach was the exclusion of Ambati Rayudu from the 2019 World Cup squad.
Rayudu, who was being groomed for the crucial No. 4 batting position, was surprisingly dropped in favor of Vijay Shankar.
Shastri later clarified that he had no say in the team selection and was against the idea of taking three wicketkeepers to the World Cup.
3. Ajinkya Rahane’s Exclusion in South Africa
Another selection controversy arose when Ajinkya Rahane, known for his prowess in overseas conditions, was dropped for the Cape Town Test in 2018.
Shastri explained that the decision was a tough call between Rohit Sharma and Rahane, with the former being chosen based on his form.
4. Bharat Arun’s Appointment as Bowling Coach
Bharat Arun’s appointment as the bowling coach of the Indian National Cricket team was not without its share of drama.
Despite Arun’s evident success in nurturing India’s fast-bowling unit, Shastri revealed that certain individuals within the BCCI were against his appointment. Shastri praised Arun, calling him the finest bowling coach India has ever had.
5. London Book Launch Party
During India’s tour of England, Shastri’s book launch event in London became viral. The event was labeled a super-spreader as several members of the Indian contingent, including Shastri, tested positive for Covid-19.
This led to the cancellation of the 5th Test match. Shastri, however, defended the event, stating that it was good for the team members to interact with different people.
6. Rivalry with Sourav Ganguly
The dynamic between Ravi Shastri and BCCI President Sourav Ganguly has been a topic of much discussion. Their differences came to the fore in 2016 when Anil Kumble was chosen as the head coach over Shastri.
This Ravi Shastri Ganguly controversy saw Shastri labeling the selection process as ‘disrespectful’ and indirectly blaming Ganguly for the decision.
Ganguly, in response, stated that if Shastri believed he was responsible, then he was “living in a fool’s world.”
7. Anil Kumble’s Resignation
Anil Kumble resigned from the head coach position was controversial. Attributed his decision to differences with captain Kohli. Following this, it was revealed that certain rules were bent to replace Kumble with Shastri.
The entire episode raised questions about the selection process and the influence of key players in decision-making, especially the dynamics between Ravi Shastri and Virat Kohli.
8. Reported for Underage Drinking
In his Ravi Shastri young days, as a member of the U-19 team, Shastri was caught drinking beer by his warden.
The story, which Shastri later confirmed on the show “Breakfast With Champions“, showcased his audacious nature even at a young age.
9. Sleeping During the Game
In 2019, during a Test match between India and South Africa, Shastri was caught napping, leading to a flurry of memes and jokes on social media.
This wasn’t the first instance, during his career, he was also seen sleeping during a 2018 Test match against England.
10. Tagged as Virat Kohli’s ‘Yes-Man’
With Virat Kohli‘s open support for Shastri as the head coach, many speculated that Shastri was merely a ‘Yes-Man’ to the captain. Kohli later addressed these rumors, dismissing them as “agenda-driven.”
Ravi Shastri: Best Moments
Ravi Shastri, with his charismatic presence, has been an integral part of Indian cricket, both as a player and in various leadership roles.
His journey, spanning from his Ravi Shastri young days to his current Ravi Shastri age, has been marked by several memorable moments. Here’s a look at some of the best moments associated with Ravi Shastri:
On the Field
1. India in Bangladesh, 2007
2007 was a challenging year for Indian cricket, especially after the disappointing performance in the World Cup.
However, under Shastri’s guidance as the team manager, India saw a resurgence during their tour of Bangladesh.
The team secured a 1-0 win in the Test series and also triumphed against the Bangladeshi side that had previously knocked them out of the World Cup.
2. Test Win at Lord’s, 2014
In a series that was filled with ups and downs, India managed to clinch a victory in the series opener at Lord’s. This win was a testament to the team’s resilience and Shastri’s influence in the background.
3. ODI Series Win in England, 2014
After a 3-1 loss in the Test series, India made a remarkable comeback in the ODI series, defeating England 3-1. Shastri’s role in this turnaround was pivotal.
4. Test Series Win Against South Africa, 2015
South Africa, undefeated in away series for almost a decade, faced a formidable challenge when they toured India in 2015.
On pitches that turned square from the outset, Shastri’s India managed to break South Africa’s streak, marking the beginning of a series of victories for the Indian side.
5. T20s vs Australia, 2016
India dominated Australia with a 3-0 victory in the T20s, especially after a challenging 4-1 loss in the ODIs.
Shastri’s decision to include Jasprit Bumrah in the team showcased his tactical acumen, and Bumrah proved his mettle in his debut series.
In the Commentary Box
1. World Cup Final, 2011
This Ravi Shastri commentary moment became iconic. As MS Dhoni hit the iconic six to seal India’s World Cup victory, Shastri’s voice echoed with the memorable words;
“Dhoni finishes off in style. A magnificent strike into the crowd. India lift the World Cup after 28 years.”
2. T20 World Cup Final, 2007
As India clinched the inaugural T20 World Cup, it was Shastri who captured the moment with;
“In the air, Sreesanth takes it, India win! Unbelievable scenes here at the bull ring!”
3. Sachin’s Double Century
When Sachin Tendulkar became the first player to score a double hundred in ODIs, Shastri remarked;
“Get’s it. First man on the planet to reach 200. And it’s the superman from India- Sachin Tendulkar.”
4. Yuvraj’s Six Sixes
During the 2007 T20 World Cup, as Yuvraj Singh hit six consecutive sixes, Shastri’s voice boomed;
“Aaaand he’s put it away or has he? Yes – into the crowd. Six sixes in an over. Yuvraj Singh finishes things in style.”
5. Mohali Test, 2010
In a nail-biting finish against Australia, as India clinched a one-wicket victory, Shastri captured the moment with:
“Get’s it away. Could this be a win for India? They go back for the second. It’s India that have won the Test match. A famous win. Unbelievable scenes in Mohali”
Throughout his cricket career, Shastri has been at the heart of many iconic moments, making him one of the most celebrated figures in the world of cricket. His batting prowess, combined with his Ravi Shastri record as a coach and commentator, solidifies his position as a legendary cricketer.
FAQ - Ravi Shastri
Who is Ravi Shastri?
Ravi Shastri is a former Indian cricketer and cricket coach who has been an integral part of the Indian cricketing fraternity for several decades. He has served in various capacities, including as a player, team director, head coach, and commentator. Known for his charismatic presence and deep understanding of the game, Shastri has made significant contributions to Indian cricket both on and off the field.
Which country did Ravi Shastri play for?
Ravi Shastri played for India. He represented the Indian national cricket team in both Test and One-Day International (ODI) formats, making notable contributions as an all-rounder. Throughout his playing career, Shastri was known for his batting prowess, left-arm spin bowling, and leadership qualities.
