Ravi Shastri is more than just a former Indian cricketer or a high energy commentator. He’s a guardian figure for Indian cricket, one who has stood firm beside players through thick and thin. As the head coach of the Indian men’s cricket team from 2017 to 2021, he played a pivotal role in shaping a new generation of fearless cricketers. Post coaching, he’s returned to the commentary box, bringing life to every moment, whether it’s the 2011 World Cup final or the thrilling T20 World Cup 2024 climax. But on May 23, 2025, during yet another high stakes IPL match, Shastri once again showcased why he’s indispensable; seamlessly switching to Hindi while interacting with players like Axar Patel and many others during toss and post match interviews. In a world where young cricketers often struggle with the spotlight and pressure, Shastri provides the cushion, context, and courage they need. Here’s why he remains the unwavering saviour of Indian players.
1. The Translator of Intent: Protecting Players from Miscommunication
In India’s linguistically diverse cricket landscape, not every player is comfortable speaking in English, especially during televised tosses, innings breaks, or post match interviews. Shastri steps in like a true mentor, often switching to Hindi to make the players feel at ease. On May 23, 2025, during a crunch IPL game, stand in RCB captain Jitesh Sharma, was trying to articulate his thoughts after a massive defeat to SRH, accidentally said, “It was good we lost,” which was clearly a slip up. What he meant was that the loss could be a wake up call for the playoffs.
Rather than letting this become a media frenzy, Ravi calmly intervened, asked him whether it was a reality check ahead of the knockouts, and helped reframe his intent. It’s these moments that show how Shastri becomes a linguistic and emotional safety net for young Indian cricketers trying to navigate the pressure filled world of professional sport.
2. The Guardian in the Box: Fierce Defender of Indian Cricketers Abroad
Whenever India plays overseas, Ravi Shastri’s presence in the commentary box becomes more than just audio;it becomes armour. In the 2024 25 Border Gavaskar Trophy, when Virat Kohli was repeatedly dismissed by balls outside off stump, several overseas commentators, including some ex legends, began dissecting his flaws a bit too gleefully. But Ravi didn’t let it slide. Instead, he balanced criticism with facts;reciting Kohli’s achievements, clutch knocks, and explaining the technical context with data that silenced the noise.
His defence isn’t just limited to marquee players. Shastri has long been a vocal supporter of R. Ashwin, particularly when commentators like Michael Vaughan and Ricky Ponting repeatedly questioned Ashwin’s decision to execute a ‘Mankad’ dismissal. While many stayed neutral or diplomatic, Ravi Shastri boldly stood by Ashwin, defending both the legality and spirit of the move. His loyalty towards Indian players, regardless of popular perception, proves his integrity as both an analyst and mentor.
3. The Unfiltered Patriot: Never Afraid to Call Out Double Standards
Back in 2011, during a heated series between India and England, DRS (Decision Review System) was unavailable due to the BCCI not opting in. Former England captain Nasser Hussain, on air, implied that India benefitted from not having DRS, hinting they’d escape close calls. His tone was dismissive, if not borderline accusatory.
While many commentators brushed it aside or took a diplomatic route, Ravi Shastri wasn’t one to sit quietly. He launched into a fiery, passionate response that echoed across cricketing circles. “They (England) are jealous about the way the IPL is going, jealous that India is No.1 in world cricket, jealous about the fact that India are world champions,” he thundered. His rebuttal wasn’t just emotional;it was nationalistic, and it spoke to every Indian fan who felt India was being unfairly targeted. Ravi has always stood up for India, regardless of the reputation or nationality of the one taking a shot.
4. The Coach Who Backed Belief Over Form
As head coach, Shastri didn’t just pick players, he backed them when they were at their lowest. A prime example was post lockdown when India toured New Zealand. Rishabh Pant returned with visible weight gain and had drawn criticism from experts and fans alike. But Ravi Shastri and the team management stood by him. Instead of dropping him, they nurtured his match fitness and gave him opportunities; trusting his long term potential over short term failures.
Fast forward a few months, and Pant was the hero of India’s historic Border Gavaskar Trophy win in 2020–21. His fearless knock at the Gabba is now etched in Indian cricketing folklore. Whether it was backing KL Rahul in lean phases or pushing for Siraj to lead a second string bowling unit in Australia, Shastri’s belief in Indian players has yielded iconic results. He built not just a team;but a tribe of self believers.
5. The Voice of Understanding: Never Criticises, Always Decodes
What separates Shastri from many Indian commentators is his steadfast refusal to publicly shame Indian players. A recent example highlights this beautifully. During the 2024 25 Border Gavaskar Trophy, Rishabh Pant played an unconventional scoop shot against Scott Boland and was caught out when the team was already struggling. A legendary Indian ex captain, sharing the panel, exploded: “Stupid, stupid, stupid! He should be sitting in the other dressing room.” The remark was uncalled for and cruel.
Shastri, however, was not part of that panel;and that’s crucial. Because had he been there, it’s unlikely such a public roasting would’ve happened. Ravi Shastri has never belittled Indian cricketers on air. Instead, he breaks down what the player was thinking, explains the scenario, and provides analysis without slander. His player first perspective allows fans to understand the game better without turning on their heroes.
That’s also why every player;from Virat Kohli to Ruturaj Gaikwad;speaks so highly of him. He’s not just their former coach. He’s their shield in the storm.
The Unspoken Captain
Ravi Shastri isn’t just a commentator or a former coach. He’s the unspoken captain in the Indian camp; present in the box, in the minds of players, and in the hearts of fans. In an era of digital scrutiny, media overanalysis, and fragile confidence, Shastri is the voice of clarity, authority, and protection. Whether it’s defending a youngster fumbling with words, clapping back at biased pundits, or offering nuanced, intelligent commentary;Ravi is always there.
He’s not just the man behind the mic. He’s the man behind the morale.