Ravi Shastri, the former India all-rounder and head coach, is currently in England for commentary duties during the high-stakes five-match Test series between India and England. Having been present for the toss during the first and third Tests at Leeds and Lord’s respectively, Shastri added his trademark flair to the proceedings—both on and off the mic.
Ahead of the fourth Test at Old Trafford, Manchester, Ravi Shastri treated fans to a lively commentary masterclass with former England spinner Phil Tufnell. In a clip that’s now making waves online, Shastri responded with his signature gusto when former England captain Michael Vaughan asked him to teach Tufnell how to “be a tosser.”
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Ravi Shastri began, “Namaskar Mumbai! That’s how you start,” before breaking into a theatrical intro: “It’s London city. It’s St. John’s Wood! NW16! It’s the Lord’s – the iconic stage for the first Test match between England and India! Stokes! Gill! Richie Richardson in the house, and Ben will give it a flick!”
“IT’S LORD’S, THE ICONIC CRICKET GROUND!” 🎤
You don’t want to miss Ravi Shastri’s masterclass in commentary 😅
📺 8am tomorrow | YouTube & all major audio platforms. pic.twitter.com/omd86y0xjI
— Stick to Cricket (@StickToCricket) July 21, 2025
During the same show, Shastri was asked to pick the five greatest Indian cricketers of all time. His list included legends across generations: Sunil Gavaskar, Kapil Dev, Sachin Tendulkar, MS Dhoni, and Virat Kohli.
He explained his choices by focusing on their impact: “These are the most influential players of their respective eras. Bishan Singh Bedi could’ve been there too, but MS Dhoni’s achievements can’t be ignored.” He added that Jasprit Bumrah isn’t included yet, as he’s still in the thick of his career.
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When Alastair Cook asked who was No. 1 among them, Ravi Shastri replied, “As a complete package—Tendulkar. Because of the pressure, expectations, and playing for 24 years at the highest level.”
