Former Indian cricketer Ravi Shastri recently showcased his iconic Audi 100 at the Raymond Auto Fest, a supercar meet in Mumbai hosted by Gautam Singhania. Known for his passion for cars, Shastri drove the legendary vehicle he won nearly four decades ago and even autographed its bonnet, delighting fans and car enthusiasts alike. This nostalgic moment highlighted a piece of cricketing history intertwined with his personal achievements.
Shastri’s Audi 100 has a storied legacy. He earned this prized car in February 1985 at the Benson & Hedges World Championship of Cricket in Australia, a prestigious multi-nation tournament that featured teams like New Zealand, West Indies, Australia, and India. Shastri’s outstanding all-round performance throughout the series made him the tournament’s standout player, earning him the Man of the Series title and the coveted car as a reward.
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The 1985 tournament was a pivotal moment for Indian cricket, coming on the heels of their historic 1983 World Cup victory. Under the captaincy of Kapil Dev, India dominated the championship, defeating powerhouses such as West Indies, New Zealand, and hosts Australia. Shastri’s contributions were instrumental, scoring 185 runs and taking 8 wickets across the tournament.
India’s @AudiIN – my baby after 25 years! Thrilled to drive it at the Raymond Auto Fest, thanks to @SinghaniaGautam‘s incredible initiative to restore #India‘s vintage gems. Unbelievable how it still shines like it did 40 years ago when India won it. pic.twitter.com/TSLUQmNLsP
— Ravi Shastri (@RaviShastriOfc) January 14, 2025
In the final against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, Shastri shone brightly. His composed 46 off 47 balls helped India post a competitive total, while his precise bowling further restricted the opposition. India’s emphatic victory not only secured the title but also solidified their rising dominance on the global stage. For Shastri, the crowning moment came when he drove his newly awarded Audi 100 around the ground, symbolizing his match-winning heroics.
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Reflecting on the event, Shastri shared his excitement at the Raymond Auto Fest, saying, “My baby after 25 years! Thrilled to drive it… unbelievable how it still shines like it did 40 years ago when India won it.” His words echoed the deep pride and nostalgia associated with this historic achievement.
The Audi 100 remains more than just a car; it is a testament to Shastri’s excellence and a symbol of India’s cricketing ascent in the 1980s. The car continues to evoke memories of a time when Indian cricket began its journey toward global prominence, fueled by iconic moments like Shastri’s stellar performance in 1985.
