Ravi Shastri Expresses Desire to Coach against Bazball

image-ljb13busBen Stokes (L) and Brendon McCullum. (Twitter)

Former head coach of the Indian cricket team Ravi Shastri expressed his fascination with England's "Bazball" style of cricket and admitted that he would have relished the opportunity to coach the opposing team against England.

Under the guidance of head coach Brendon McCullum and captain Ben Stokes, England has achieved significant success, winning 11 out of their last 14 Test matches. The team's approach allows players the freedom to play aggressive shots and seize control of the game. However, concerns have been raised about the potential risks associated with this strategy in challenging situations.

Speaking to The Week, Shastri shared his perspective on Bazball and how he would have approached it as the coach of an opposing team. He expressed a keen interest in taking on the challenge head-on and seeing how it unfolds. 

The 1983 World Cup winner highlighted that the success of Bazball may vary depending on the conditions and emphasized the need for adaptability. While he did not give it an unequivocal endorsement, he acknowledged the excitement it brings to Test cricket by keeping spectators engaged until the very end.

“I would have loved to be the opposing coach (to Bazball) and take it by the scruff of the neck and see what happens. It may not work every time and you need to see the conditions too in which you do it. 

I won’t give it a complete green tick because I know there will be days when it will be poor. Only time will tell. But it’s exciting because it keeps you on the edge of the seat and that’s what you want in Test cricket”  Ravi Shastri said in an interview with The Week.

Shastri's remarks reflect his admiration for the innovative and aggressive style of cricket that England has adopted. Only time will reveal the true efficacy and sustainability of Bazball. However, the thrilling nature of this approach, which keeps both players and fans on the edge of their seats, aligns with Shastri's vision for the excitement of Test cricket.