'It's easier in the commentary box': Ravi Shastri on life after coaching

Ravi Shastri became a household name for Indians across the globe in the way he marshaled his troops during his seven-year tenure. Shastri, who resigned from the post of India's head coach after the completion of the ICC T20 World Cup in 2021, is now back doing commentary.

The former coach is currently mesmerising fans over their television screens commentating on the ongoing fifth and final Test of the Pataudi series between India and England.

Speaking to News18 India, the 60-year-old talked about his life after coaching, saying, “Life is definitely easier in the commentary box (than coaching the Indian cricket team). It is fairly a relaxed job now but to be honest, I have been richer by the experience (India coaching stint). The seven-year stint has been a huge experience for me.”

Under Shastri's guidance, India became a dominant force in foreign conditions, where his partnership with former India captain Virat Kohli won multiple Test series' in Australia and limited-overs bilaterals in New Zealand, England, and South Africa.

Shastri took over Anil Kumble’s position in 2017. He had earlier worked with the India side as a team director.

Awarded 'Champion of Champions' in India's 1985 World Championship win, Shastri dwelled on his stint in England.

“No yar, I am whole summer here in England as I have this contract with SKY for the whole summer. Doing all the matches of English summer which includes T20 Blast as well," he added.

Indian fans can next hear Shastri's expertise during India's tour of the West Indies, which will air on streaming app.

“The series is not on TV, and it will be on FanCode, and I will be doing commentary for them from here (England),” he concluded.

Shastri is enjoying a commentary stint in England, as seen in a video shared on Twitter, where the left-arm spinner can be seen bowling to former England batter Kevin Pietersen in the presence of former England captain Nasser Hussain.

As a player, the Mumbai-born featured in 80 Tests and 150 ODIs for India between 1981 and 1992, which includes being part of the 1983’s World Cup-winning squad.