India are all set to play the final of the inaugural World Test Championship against New Zealand in Southampton beginning on June 18. Ahead of the big clash, the BCCI has posted a video of head coach Ravi Shastri on the official Twitter handle.
Shastri is seen talking to the team after their wins against Australia and England which helped them make a place in the WTC final. India were bundled out for 36 against Australia in the first Test and lost the game to go 1-0 down but fought back to win the series 2-1.
"Guys, I'd tear in my eyes. The courage, resolve, the spirit you guys have shown is unreal. Not for once, you were down. Injuries, 36 all-out, but you had the self-belief. It doesn't come overnight. It has happened over a period of time. The whole world will stand up and salute you so remember what you guys have done today,” Shastri said.
"Believe that things can happen. Don't count your chickens. Till the game is over, be focussed and have the belief whether you are batting or bowling,” the coach further said.
India announced the final playing XI on Thursday. The Indian team will be going ahead with two specialist spinners, Ravindra Jadeja and R Ashwin and three pacers, Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma and Mohammad Shami. Unfortunately, Mohammed Siraj who was one of the heroes in Australia has missed the bus for the final.
India's XI: Shubman Gill, Rohit Sharma, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (c), Ajinkya Rahane (vc), Rishabh Pant (wk), R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Shami, Ishant Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah