Former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri has once again emphasized the indispensable role that Virat Kohli plays in shaping the future of Indian cricket. With a team brimming with young and talented players like Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Nitish Kumar, and Rishabh Pant, Shastri believes Kohli’s experience and stature are invaluable for the growth of these budding cricketers.
Speaking recently about the Indian cricket setup, Ravi Shastri said, “If you look at Jaiswal, he’s 23, Shubman is 24-25, Nitish is 21, and Rishabh is 26 years old. So there are a lot of guys there in the Indian team who can benefit from the experience of a player of Virat Kohli’s calibre. Players can learn a lot from him.”
The likes of Jaiswal and Gill have already showcased their immense potential at the international level, delivering performances that underline their talent. Gill has cemented his place in the Indian batting lineup with consistent runs across formats, while Jaiswal has impressed with his fearless approach and solid technique in both domestic cricket and his early international outings. Nitish Kumar, although new to the scene, is seen as one of India’s rising stars in the making. Rishabh Pant, on the other hand, has already proven his mettle, especially in Test cricket, where his exploits have led India to historic victories.
Ravi Shastri’s comments shine a light on the symbiotic relationship between experience and youth in cricket. Kohli, who has been the backbone of Indian cricket for over a decade, has amassed a wealth of knowledge about handling pressure, performing in high-stakes games, and adapting to different conditions. For young players, having someone like Kohli in the dressing room is akin to having a living masterclass at their disposal.
Kohli’s ability to mentor and guide has already been evident in his interactions with younger players. Whether it is helping Shubman Gill adapt to the challenges of Test cricket or advising Yashasvi Jaiswal on navigating the complexities of international cricket, Kohli has often taken the role of a mentor. His unwavering fitness standards, work ethic, and mental toughness provide a benchmark for young players to emulate.
Ravi Shastri’s mention of Rishabh Pant is particularly significant. Pant has often credited Kohli for providing him with the confidence to play his natural game. In crunch moments, Kohli’s calming influence and astute cricketing mind have helped Pant thrive. Similarly, Shubman Gill has often spoken about how Kohli’s insights into batting and game strategy have played a part in his evolution as a player.