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Ravi Shastri, the former India head coach, has expressed his readiness to become a part of the IPL. The 59-year-old left the position of India’s head coach after the ICC T20 World Cup 2021 concluded.

In an interview, Ravi Shastri was asked about his future. The former Indian all-rounder clarified that he would take a break first and then think about his next direction.

Ravi Shastri Image Source : AP — Ravi Shastri Image Source: AP

Ravi Shastri Said It’s Time To Take A Break

Ravi Shastri mentioned how cricket is constantly evolving and how he can become a part of the media and digital space. Ravi Shastri, whose tenure as head coach ended with the recently concluded T20 World Cup, is one of India’s most successful coaches.

“Next, there is plenty. I will take a break and there is plenty in the sporting space that can be done. It is a great game, it is evolving, the space around the game — the media and digital space are evolving. At this moment, my fingers are pointing in five different directions,” said Shastri.

Virat Kohli in action during the third day of the WTC final against New Zealand. (File) — Virat Kohli was in action during the third day of the WTC final against New Zealand. (File)

Skipper Virat Kohli and coach Ravi Shastri had worked together as captain and coach since 2017 for four years, during which Indian cricket achieved phenomenal success. However, their stint ended on a disappointing note, with India getting knocked out of the 2021 T20I World Cup, failing to qualify for the semifinals for the first time in eight ICC events.

Ravi Shastri had initially become the director of the Indian cricket team in 2014 for a period of eight months from India’s tour of England till the 2015 World Cup, alongside Duncan Fletcher. He then had sole responsibility till 2016, and the 2016 World T20 saw India reach the semifinals again.

Ravi Shastri was removed in 2016 when Anil Kumble took over, but on July 13, 2017, he was appointed the head coach of the Indian team officially, reuniting with Virat Kohli to forge a vibrant partnership.

Ravi Shastri (as head coach since July 2017):

Tests: 43 matches, 25 wins
ODIs: 76 matches, 51 wins
T20Is: 65 matches, 42 wins

Ravi Shastri Hinted He Could Be A Part Of IPL As Coach

According to reports, the Ahmedabad IPL franchise has already approached Ravi Shastri to join them as the team’s head coach for IPL 2022. While the former India coach did not confirm the reports, he hinted that he could become a part of the IPL as a coach.

“I would definitely be part of coaching, at grassroots levels and there is no question about it. Who knows if you get an opportunity in the IPL in the future, then I would definitely not say no to that. Of course, television will always be there. For the moment, it is time to take a break, relax, reflect and enjoy the free time,” Shastri concluded.

The Indian cricket team achieved a lot of success under Ravi Shastri. They registered overseas Test series wins and dominated every opponent at home. Unfortunately, the Indian squad failed to win a single ICC trophy during that time. However, Ravi Shastri was satisfied with the team’s performance under him. The former Indian head coach is now looking forward to an exciting future.

Ravi Shastri, the outgoing India coach, hoped India would make a strong comeback under Rahul Dravid in the next ICC T20 World Cup 2022 in October. However, India failed to reach the semifinals of the ICC T20 World Cup 2021 after suffering defeats against Pakistan and New Zealand in the Super 12 matches.