Ravi Shastri’s emotions flow as he reveals his career’s most memorable moment
Hyderabad, the City of Pearls glittered a little brighter tonight, reflecting the luminescence of a career etched in passion and victory. Former Indian cricketer Ravi Shastri, a man whose name resonates with powerful drives and witty commentary, was conferred the prestigious Col. CK Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award at the Indian Cricket Board’s Naman Awards.
From his swashbuckling days as a batsman, known for his effortless sixes and unwavering grit, to his transformative stint as head coach, guiding India to historic triumphs, Shastri’s journey has been a masterclass in cricketing excellence. Beyond the field, Shastri‘s voice captivated millions as a commentator. His witty one-liners, profound insights, and infectious enthusiasm elevated the viewing experience, transforming matches into cricketing operas. He brought the game closer to the people, breaking down complexities with humour and passion, making him a household name, not just among cricket aficionados, but across the nation.
As he received the award, a wave of nostalgia washed over the audience, each clap echoing the countless memories he has gifted to the nation. He was asked a few questions and the answers were delivered with characteristic candor, was a masterclass in itself. He reminisced about his early days, the thrill of wearing the India blue, and the unwavering support of his family and mentors. He acknowledged the ups and downs, the setbacks and triumphs, weaving them into a narrative that resonated with every aspiring cricketer in the room.
“That was the icing on the cake”
While his illustrious career boasts numerous defining moments, when asked to pick his absolute favourite, Shastri picked a more recent achievement. Shastri readily acknowledged the significance of the 1985 World Championship of Cricket, where he was crowned Champion of Champions, and the 1983 World Cup victory, India’s first on the global stage. “It is a special evening for me. I think picking one would be difficult. But I will just go very quickly. You showed one that the 1985 final vs Pakistan was special in Melbourne. 1983 when India won the World Cup,” he said.
However, his heart ultimately belonged to a more recent battleground- the Gabba Test of 2021. This wasn’t just any Test match. It was a David vs. Goliath encounter, where a depleted Indian team, ravaged by injuries and missing key players, faced the mighty Australians at their impregnable fortress- the Gabba. Despite the odds stacked heavily against them, India, under Shastri’s coaching, pulled off a historic victory, breaching the Gabba’s 32-year-long unbeaten streak.
Ravi Shastri’s voice choked with emotion as he recalled the match, his words echoing the immense grit and determination displayed by the young Indian team. “But the icing on the cake was that last day at the Gabba when we went past the finishing line with Rishabh Pant getting us home. Has to be the icing on the cake and I thank my players for that, all of them. That is the most expensive medal you’ll ever get,’ he said with a lot of pride.
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