Former India head coach Ravi Shastri, known for his outspoken and candid style, has once again made headlines—this time during a rapid-fire interview in England. From naming Jasprit Bumrah the bowler he'd fear most, to calling Virat Kohli the most influential cricketer of the decade, Shastri opened up on several interesting aspects of his cricketing journey.

“I’d Hate to Face Bumrah” – Shastri’s Pick

Currently in England as part of the commentary panel, Ravi Shastri was asked which modern-day bowler he would hate to face if he were still batting. His instant reply:

"Jasprit Bumrah."

It wasn’t a dig—but the highest compliment a coach could give. Known for his awkward action, lethal pace, and pinpoint yorkers, Bumrah remains a nightmare for batters, and clearly, Shastri wouldn't want to be on the receiving end either.

The clip of this interview was shared by Stick to Cricket and later reposted by Shastri himself, further fueling buzz among fans.

“Virat Kohli is the Best and Most Influential Player”

When asked who he considers the best batsman in the current era, Shastri didn’t hesitate:

“Virat Kohli is not just the best batsman of the last 10 years, but the most influential cricketer as well.”

This aligns with the common sentiment among cricket lovers and analysts. Under Shastri’s coaching tenure (2017–2021), Kohli rose to global prominence, delivering consistent performances across formats and leading India to historic overseas Test wins.

The Best Advice? From Richie Benaud

Shastri also reflected on his post-cricket career as a commentator. He revealed that the best piece of advice he ever received came from legendary Australian commentator Richie Benaud:

“You are not being paid by the number of words you speak, but for what you say.”

A piece of wisdom that has guided Shastri’s distinctive commentary style—crisp, impactful, and loaded with insight.

Shastri’s Legacy

As India’s head coach, Ravi Shastri led the team through a golden era, including back-to-back Test series wins in Australia and strong performances in ICC tournaments. His words still carry weight, and his admiration for players like Bumrah and Kohli only cements their legacy in modern cricket.