Ravi Shastri Backs ‘Class Players’ Virat Kohli And Steve Smith To Regain Form

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December 24, 2024 0 1017

Ravi Shastri Backs Virat Kohli And Smith

The 2024 cricketing calendar has seen contrasting fortunes for the members of the Fab Four. Indian batting maestro Virat Kohli and Australian stalwart Steve Smith have struggled to make a significant impact with the bat, managing just one century each in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy. On the other hand, Kane Williamson and Joe Root have been in sublime form, amassing four and six Test centuries, respectively, cementing their dominance in red-ball cricket.

Ravi Shastri, former Indian cricketer and coach, weighed in on the shifting dynamics among these modern-day greats. Speaking about the current form of Kohli and Smith, Shastri acknowledged their dip in performance but also highlighted their hunger and resilience.

“I think they (Kohli and Smith) will have slipped down the ranks on current form because you know you’ve got the likes of Root taking off, there’s Williamson doing well, Harry Brook has come onto the scene, you know there are a lot of other young players pushing. But these are class players,” Shastri remarked.

Despite their struggles, Shastri believes that both Kohli and Smith remain dangerous players, particularly because of their hunger to succeed. Shastri praised Smith’s ability to adapt and play with discipline, referencing his gritty knock at the Gabba against India, where the Australian batsman notched his 33rd Test century. “What’s needed you saw from Smith. It might have been a struggle early on, but he was prepared to play the waiting game and be disciplined,” Shastri explained.

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Shastri expressed confidence in Kohli’s ability to regain his peak form. He pointed out that the Indian star’s primary challenge lies in navigating the crucial early phase of his innings. “I think the same with Virat. If Virat gets over that first 30, 40 minutes, with serious application and discipline, I don’t think he’s (out of form). None of these guys are out of form,” Shastri concluded.