Ravi Shastri Reflects on India's Historic Test Victory at Lord's

A Memorable Test Match at Lord's

As the next Test at Lord's approaches, Ravi Shastri reminisced about one of India's most remarkable victories on English soil. In an interview with Sky Sports, the former head coach of India discussed the incredible mindset that Virat Kohli, the then-captain, instilled in the team during the nail-biting final day of the 2021 Test at Lord's.

Kohli's Transformative Leadership

Despite being under pressure from critics and media, with England favored after Day 4, Shastri emphasized that it was Kohli's intense demeanor—calm off the field yet fierce on it—that turned the tide. He remarked,

“Off the field and on the field, (his personality) is like chalk and cheese. Off it, he is a mellow, chilled guy but on it, he is a beast. He is at you, he is at your throat, he’ll look you in the eye, and play hard cricket.”

The Turning Point of the Match

Shastri noted that the team's spirits soared after a crucial 89-run partnership for the ninth wicket between Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah. This unexpected contribution not only added essential runs but also sparked a renewed sense of belief within the squad.

From Belief to Blowout: Kohli’s Grit, India’s Response

Shastri highlighted a pivotal moment that morning, stating,

“We had a chat in the morning (of Day 5) and all we said was ‘try and get England to chase 170, and we’re winning this.’ We knew if we give them 170-180, we could win this game with the attack we had. We had an excellent attack.”

India's Bowling Attack Shines

With England set a target of 272, India's pace attack—Bumrah, Siraj, Shami, and Ishant—dismissed the hosts for just 120 runs in 52 overs. Reflecting on the moment when Bumrah and Shami returned to the dressing room, Shastri shared,

“It was COVID time, so the long room (at Lord’s) was empty. We made a corridor for them and welcomed them back.” Then came the turning point: “That’s when he said: Unleash hell.”

India indeed unleashed their fury, leading to England's collapse. Kohli's passion had transformed into the team's driving force.