The incident occurred during a difficult series for India, where they were defeated 1-4 despite being in competitive positions in several of the matches. Ashwin, however, was one of the standout performers for India, taking 18 wickets across seven matches. He took part in the Sky Sports masterclass to discuss his bowling techniques, including his famous carrom ball and how he approaches different situations during a match. This was an opportunity for Ashwin to share his knowledge with the cricketing world.
However, Shastri did not take kindly to Ashwin’s appearance on the masterclass. The head coach was reportedly upset, feeling that such detailed insights into a bowler’s arsenal could give opposing teams a chance to prepare against Ashwin’s strengths. Ashwin admitted on the podcast that he received a sharp reprimand from Shastri for participating in the session. "I got a real pasting from Ravi Shastri for doing that masterclass," Ashwin confessed. According to Ashwin, Shastri’s concern was rooted in the belief that discussing his techniques publicly could compromise the team’s strategic advantage, especially in an overseas series that was already proving difficult for India.
Despite the dressing down, Ashwin stood by his decision. He explained that he understood Shastri’s point but never felt insecure about sharing his insights. “I think he had his point, but inside me, I never felt insecure about it. To me, cricket is about delivering what you have and responding to what’s thrown your way,” Ashwin said. This reflected his deep confidence in his skills and his belief that the game is more about execution than revealing one's strategies.
The 2018 England tour itself was a challenging one for India. Despite dominating parts of the series, they eventually lost 1-4. India was in winning positions in several matches, but their inability to close out games saw them fall short. Ashwin, however, was one of the few players who performed consistently throughout the series, picking up key wickets and demonstrating his resilience in the face of adversity. His 18 wickets in seven matches made him one of India’s standout bowlers, and Ashwin noted that his mindset was always focused on keeping ahead of the batsmen.
The mental aspect of bowling is something Ashwin often reflects on. He acknowledged that it’s a battle he has with himself. "Very few times have batters had the courage to come at me. It's a battle in my own head," he remarked. For Ashwin, it is not just about outwitting the batsman but also about being mentally sharp and evolving as a bowler. His introspective approach to the game has played a crucial role in his long and successful career.
Ashwin’s participation in the Sky Sports masterclass wasn’t about trying to reveal his secrets or showing vulnerability, but rather a method of self-exploration. Every time he shared his bowling techniques or discussed his thought process, Ashwin would find himself questioning and re-evaluating his own approach. "Every time I shared something, I discovered a question inside me. That helped me evolve and find answers," he explained. This reflective approach is part of what makes Ashwin one of the most successful and intelligent bowlers in modern cricket.
Ashwin’s career is a testament to his intellectual approach to the game. Having finished as one of India’s all-time highest wicket-takers, Ashwin’s ability to adapt, learn, and improve constantly has been key to his success. Even as he transitions out of international cricket, having retired following the Gabba Test in December 2024, Ashwin remains a valuable figure in the cricketing world, admired not only for his skills on the field but for his thought-provoking perspectives off it.
This candid recollection of his interaction with Ravi Shastri highlights the delicate balance between individual expression and the team’s collective strategy in cricket. While Shastri’s reaction was understandable from a team dynamics perspective, Ashwin’s approach exemplifies how personal growth and introspection can lead to sustained success. As India continues to evolve in the cricketing world, Ashwin’s insights serve as a reminder of the mental resilience required to succeed in a sport as demanding as cricket.
