Five challenges before Shastri
As Ravi Shastri begins his stint with the India team from the Sri Lanka tour starting on July 26, here are some of the challenges the former India allrounder is likely to face:
Experienced coaching staff is key. However, clash of opinions can disturb the dressing room atmosphere. The presence of Zaheer and Dravid could make decision-making a tricky job. Shastri’s man management skills will be tested. Striking a balance between what the coach wants from players and what is actually needed will be key. Shastri had said, “Their inputs will be invaluable. Any good suggestion will be welcome.”
India’s recent overseas wins have come against Sri Lanka and West Indies — both bottomranked teams. With tough tours coming up against England, Australia, South Africa and New Zealand, India will be determined to put in consistent performances. While they have never won a series in Australia, India last won in England 10 years ago. They won in New Zealand in 2009. With these numbers, Shastri’s task will be to ensure the team turns their poor overseas record around.
Kumble’s “untenable” problems with Kohli led to a fractured dressing room. Reportedly, some players who were a part of the Champions Trophy also had issues with Kumble. The KohliKumble saga has left a bad taste and fans will be hoping to see less ‘action’ off the field. Shastri’s biggest challenge will be to ensure the team does not carry the excess baggage of the past
Apart from the Pakistan game in the Champions Trophy where he scored a fifty, Yuvraj Singh has struggled while MS Dhoni drew flak for not taking India over the line against West Indies in Antigua. His innings of 54 off 114 in pursuit of 190 raised questions whether Dhoni’s finishing skills were done and dusted. Shastri will face a challenge when it comes to defining Yuvraj and Dhoni’s roles. Both have a combined experience of 600 ODIs but preparations for the 2019 World Cup have to start now. Defining roles is the best way to keep Kohli level-headed. Both Shastri and the Indian skipper are aggressive and passionate. Their partnership has the potential to take the team forward. While both are bold personalities, Shastri believes in the primacy of the captain’s position and would expect the same from Kohli when it comes to the head coach’s role.
Kohli must continue to take responsibility for the team’s performances on the field. Shastri can be the spark off the field to help Kohli achieve his true potential.