Published: Jul 19, 2017, 02:59 PM (IST)
Edited: Jul 19, 2017, 04:34 PM (IST)
Ahead of India’s tour to Sri Lanka, Ravi Shastri and skipper Virat Kohli spoke in length about what has transpired in the last few weeks and how it affects the morale of the side. Shastri, who was appointed India coach after much confusion, said that coaches will come and go but what is important is the team. He also briefed the press about how he matured in the past few weeks have made him. Shastri was all praise for the re-appointed bowling coach Bharat Arun as well.
Shastri in the press conference said, “Shastri’s and Kumble’s will come and go, the team is more important. I have matured immensely in the last two weeks. I don’t come with any baggage.” Speaking on his coaching method, Shastri added, “When you play you want your mind clear. My job is to do the same thing.”
Kohli also talked in detail about his relation with Shastri, “We have worked together earlier as well so I don’t think much effort will be required to understand each other.” Kohli on the whole issue of captain and coach relation said, “Understanding & communication is important for every relationship to be successful.”
On the upcoming Sri Lanka tour, Kohli said, “I don’t think there is added pressure. What has to happen will happen. Criticism and being criticised is nothing new to us. Whatever is happening off the field doesn’t bother us. I do not take any added pressure. I started as a player and you only focus on the series that you have to play.”
Kohli, who refrained from making any controversial statement said that is job is to only focus on batting than anything else. “I only have the bat in my hand, my job is to do my best, lot of speculations around,” Kohli concluded.
India play Sri Lanka in a three-match Test series with the first Test to be played on July 26 at the Galle International Stadium, followed by the remaining Tests at Colombo and Kandy respectively in August.
