Ashwin recalls Ravi Shastri's morale-boosting reaction after 36 all-out debacle
Veteran Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has shared his memories of how former head coach Ravi Shastri helped lift the team's spirits following their dismal performance against Australia in the 2020 Adelaide Test. This match marked a low point in India's cricket history as they were dismissed for their lowest-ever Test total (36/10). Despite leading by 53 runs in the first innings, India's batting lineup collapsed and set Australia a modest target of 90 runs.
Shastri's unique approach to uplift team's spirits
Ashwin revealed on Vimal Kumar's YouTube channel that despite the team's low morale and lack of confidence in a series win, Shastri managed to lift their spirits. He did this by organizing a team dinner and setting up a karaoke session where he sang Hindi songs. "We were not thinking about a series win because we were just bowled out for 36," Ashwin said. "The mood in the dressing room was a bit down. Ravi Bhai organized a team dinner."
Team's focus on upcoming challenges post-defeat
Post the Adelaide defeat, the team shifted its focus to the upcoming challenges. Ashwin disclosed that even as then-captain Virat Kohli was preparing to depart after the first Test, the team set "small targets" and concentrated solely on performing well in Melbourne's Boxing Day Test. This strategic shift came after a demoralizing eight-wicket loss in their first encounter with Australia.
India's remarkable comeback in subsequent Tests
Following the initial setback, India made a remarkable comeback in the remaining three Tests. Under Ajinkya Rahane's leadership, who stepped in for Kohli, the team played exceptionally well and secured a historic 2-1 series victory. This included handing Australia their first defeat at Brisbane's Gabba in nearly 32 years during the final Test, proving doubters wrong and showcasing their resilience.
