Ravi Shastri’s position as the coach of the Indian Cricket Team is set to end after the World T20 in 2021. Although there has not been any word about an extension, if Shastri fails to win the England series and the World T20, his role will surely be in danger. On that note, here is a look at three IPL teams Ravi Shastri can coach if the former all-rounder’s India contract is not renewed.
The highest-paid International cricket coach right now, Shastri is currently in his second stint as the coach of Team India. He replaced Anil Kumble after the leg-spinner stepped down from the role. Under Shastri, India reached the semis of the World Cup in 2019 and the finals of the World Test Championship Final in 2021. However, India lost in both of them. Hence, the former all-rounder is under pressure to deliver a major trophy to the country. Therefore, if the board decides to replace him, Shastri can go on and pick an IPL franchise to continue his coaching duties.
1) Royal Challengers Bangalore – One Of The Popular IPL Teams Ravi Shastri Can Coach
It is out in the open that Virat Kohli and Ravi Shastri enjoy a brilliant on-field and off the field relationship. Previously also, Ashish Nehra came to RCB because he enjoyed a good relation with Virat. This is a common practice in any franchise or club based tournament. It may not be a surprise if the same scenario repeats with the current Head Coach of Team India.
That said, RCB now has an organized management headed by Mike Hesson and Simon Katich. Under them, the team did well in IPL 2020. However, if they don’t win the trophy in IPL 2021, one of them might lose their jobs as IPL standards require coaches to produce quick results. Hence, RCB is one of the IPL teams Ravi Shastri can coach in future.
2) Mumbai Indians
Mumbai Indians has done well under Mahela Jayawardene. However, previously as well, we have seen franchises changing coaches despite having a fruitful time. Moreover, MI might also consider changing a few things at the helm so that a different brand of cricket comes to the fore. If Mahela picks up a role in Sri Lankan cricket, too, MI will have to replace him.
Being his home franchise, Ravi could be tempted by a role at the Mumbai Indians. The Ambani-owned franchise, which usually likes big names, might analyse the current India coach for the role. The core of MI knows Shastri very well, and this could help the team.
3) Rajasthan Royals – One Of The IPL Teams Ravi Shastri Can Coach
Despite the appointment of Kumar Sangakkara as the Director of Cricket Operations, RR did not show any vigour in the first phase of IPL 2021. The team also needs a big name so that their popularity rises. While a well-known Indian player can do that, a coach like Ravi Shastri could also help the situation.
With the player as the coach of the team, there would be some focus on the franchise. This could help the squad members perform better. RR has been over-reliant on foreigners in recent years. The arrival of Ravi Shastri could change that.
