Will Ravi Shastri’s 'work hard, play hard' mantra score for Team India?

Ravi Shastri's critics may see him as an establishment man. 'Shastri hai' may have been a popular chant at one time. But his cricketing achievements and optimism have - over generations - made him a valued presence in the dressing room. Shastri was also among the glamour boys of Indian cricket. This helps contemporary players - a moneyed bunch that cleans up well - relate with him.

A player's captain

In the 1987-88 home series against the West Indies, India went into the final Test in Chennai trailing 0-1. An injury to Dilip Vengsarkar meant Shastri became the standin captain. On a turning track, Shastri backed a young legspinner named Narendra Hirwani. Hirwani took 16 wickets over two innings and India claimed a famous win. In an interview with to a newspaper in 2006, Hirwani said, "I was young, raw but Ravi Shastri gave the ball to me and said, 'You are a raja and you can do wonders with this ball in your hand. Go ahead and get your wickets.'"


From left to right: Virat Kohli, Ravi Shastri and Harshad Ayub at an event in Mumbai. (Image: BCCL)

Wonder down under

Shastri scored a dogged 206 in Sydney in India's bruis -ing 1991-92 tour of Australia. During the knock, he mentored Sachin Tendulkar to a century and also sledged back at some of the gutter-mouthed Australian players. That one innings drove home everything Shastri stood for. And need we even mention 1985 and the Audi?

Up the ladder

Shastri, who came into the team as a left-arm spinner, started his batting career at the lowly position of No. 10. He went on to become an opener. It was like an intern became the CEO. Being Sunil Gavaskar's blue-eyed boy may have helped Shastri at some points in his career, but his rapid ascent showed his ability to shut out the naysayers, work hard and earn his place on his own steam.


Ravi Shastri (L) with early mentor Sunil Gavaskar (2L) and other commentators. (Image: BCCL)

Work hard, play hard

In 1983, Shastri and Mithun Chakravarthy played an exhibition match in New Jersey, along with other Indian actors and cricketers. And Shastri wasn't out of place in a disco either. He did not hide his fondness for nightlife. Importantly, he would be back on the field on time the next day. Everyone loves a guy who works and plays hard.

A bit of modelling

As a pin-up idol of his time, Shastri appeared in several commercials. These included Thums Up, Proline sports apparel and Vimal Suitings. Although well in his 50s now, Shastri continues to enjoy dressing well and wearing luxury watches.