Ravi Shastri - Records and Achievements

Ravi Shastri - Records and Achievements

Ravi Shastri is a former Indian cricketer, captain, and coach who has made remarkable contributions to Indian cricket, both on and off the field. Known for his versatility as an all-rounder, Shastri played for India from 1981 to 1992, excelling in both batting and bowling. After retiring from cricket, he transitioned into a successful commentator and later became the head coach of the Indian cricket team.

Personal Details

Full Name: Ravishankar Jayadritha Shastri

Date of Birth: May 27, 1962

Place of Birth: Mumbai, Maharashtra, India

Batting Style: Left-handed

Bowling Style: Right-arm medium and slow left-arm orthodox

Role: All-rounder

Cricketing Career

International Debut

Test Debut: February 21, 1981, against New Zealand

ODI Debut: November 25, 1981, against England

Career Statistics

Tests:

Matches: 80

Runs: 3,830

Batting Average: 35.79

100s/50s: 11/12

Wickets: 151

Bowling Average: 40.96

ODIs:

Matches: 150

Runs: 3,108

Batting Average: 29.04

100s/50s: 4/18

Wickets: 129

Bowling Average: 36.04

Key Records and Achievements

1. Player of the Tournament - 1985 World Championship of Cricket:

Shastri’s most iconic moment came during the 1985 Benson & Hedges World Championship of Cricket in Australia, where he was named the Player of the Tournament. His all-round performances, including his steady batting and effective bowling, helped India win the tournament.

He famously drove around the Melbourne Cricket Ground in an Audi 100, awarded for his performance.

2. Double Century in Tests:

Shastri scored a career-best 206 against Australia in Sydney in 1992, showcasing his ability to anchor innings and score big in challenging conditions.

3. Fastest Double Century in First-Class Cricket:

Shastri holds the record for scoring the fastest double century in first-class cricket, smashing 200 in just 123 balls during a Ranji Trophy match in 1985 for Bombay.

4. Contribution as an All-Rounder:

With over 3,000 runs and 100+ wickets in both Tests and ODIs, Shastri cemented his place as one of India’s finest all-rounders.

5. Versatile Player:

Shastri started his career as a left-arm spinner but evolved into a dependable middle-order batsman, occasionally opening the innings when required.

Coaching Career

Head Coach of India (2017–2021):

As the head coach, Shastri played a pivotal role in India’s resurgence in international cricket, especially in Test cricket.

Under his leadership, India achieved the following milestones:

Back-to-back Test series wins in Australia (2018-19 and 2020-21).

Dominance in home Test matches, securing the ICC Test Championship mace multiple times.

India reaching the finals of the inaugural ICC World Test Championship (2021).

He is credited with fostering a fearless and aggressive brand of cricket.

Commentary Career

After retiring from cricket in 1992, Shastri transitioned into a highly successful career as a cricket commentator. His authoritative voice and insightful analysis made him a fan favorite in the commentary box for over two decades.

Outstanding Contributions to Indian Cricket

1. Versatility: Shastri's ability to adapt his game to different formats and situations greatly benefited Indian cricket during the 1980s and early 1990s.

2. Leadership: As a player, Shastri captained India in one Test match and several ODIs. As a coach, he instilled resilience and a winning mindset in the team.

3. Mentorship: Shastri mentored a generation of Indian cricketers, encouraging them to perform with confidence on the global stage.

4. Ambassador of Indian Cricket: His success as a player, commentator, and coach has made him an enduring figure in Indian cricket, inspiring countless young players.

Legacy

Ravi Shastri's legacy is multifaceted: an all-rounder who served Indian cricket with distinction, a charismatic voice in the commentary box, and a transformative coach who guided the team to historic victories. His contributions continue to be celebrated by cricket fans worldwide.