Former India coach Ravi Shastri recently shared insights into Virat Kohli’s captaincy and the team’s historic victory over England at Lord’s in 2021.
Virat Kohli: A Beast on the Field
Speaking on Sky Sports, Ravi Shastri vividly described Virat Kohli’s dual personality. He noted that off the field, Kohli is calm and relaxed, a stark contrast to his intense persona during a match.
“On the field, he is a beast. He is at you, he is at your throat, he’ll look you in the eye, and play hard cricket,” Shastri remarked, highlighting Kohli’s aggressive and competitive spirit as a leader.
The Lord’s Test: A Strategic Win
Shastri recounted the crucial moments of the 2021 Lord’s Test, where India defeated England by 151 runs. The final day saw India’s formidable fast-bowling quartet of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Mohammed Shami, and Ishant Sharma dismantle England’s batting lineup within just 52 overs.
The strategic target was clear. “We had a chat in the morning and all we said ‘try and get England to chase 170, and we’re winning this,'” Shastri revealed. He was confident their strong bowling attack could defend that score.
Defying Expectations: The Tailenders’ Heroics
Despite widespread skepticism from the British press, India turned the tables. Shastri mentioned that many newspapers had written India off as underdogs.
The turning point arrived with an unexpected 89-run partnership between tailenders Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami. This crucial stand not only added vital runs but also significantly boosted the team’s morale.
Shastri recalled the electrifying atmosphere in the dressing room when Bumrah and Shami returned. The team formed a corridor to welcome them, sensing a shift in momentum.
“Unleash Hell!”
That moment of upliftment set the stage for Kohli’s powerful message. Shastri knew the captain would rally the team before they took the field for England’s final innings.
As the team huddled, Kohli delivered a memorable command: “Unleash hell!” This rallying cry perfectly encapsulated the aggressive intent with which India went on to secure a famous victory.
- Ravi Shastri described Virat Kohli as “a beast” on the field due to his intense competitive nature.
- India targeted setting England a chase of around 170-180 runs in the 2021 Lord’s Test, confident in their bowling attack.
- An 89-run partnership between Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami was a pivotal moment that boosted team morale.
- Virat Kohli’s final instruction to the team before the last innings was to “Unleash hell.”
Shastri’s insights paint a vivid picture of the team’s mindset and the leadership that led to one of India’s most memorable Test victories in England.
