WTC Final: "You Got To Miss IPL, The Choice Is Yours" - Ravi Shastri Gives His Honest Take On Players Getting A Break Following The IPL

Last Update on: June 11th, 2023 at 09:05 pm

India faced a resounding defeat in the final of the ICC World Test Championship, succumbing to a 209-run loss against Australia at The Oval. This marked the team’s second consecutive defeat in the tournament’s title clash, following a seven-wicket loss to New Zealand in the inaugural final two years ago during Ravi Shastri and Virat Kohli’s tenure as head coach and skipper.

The defeat added to India’s prolonged wait for an ICC title, with their last triumph dating back to the 2013 Champions Trophy under the leadership of Mahendra Singh Dhoni.

The preparations leading up to the WTC Final were a subject of much discussion, particularly regarding the participation of Indian players in the 2023 Indian Premier League (IPL).

Also Read: WTC Final: “You Can’t Take The Credit Away From What We Have Done” – Rohit Sharma Defends His Side Despite Another Loss In ICC Tournament Knockouts

Except for Cheteshwar Pujara, all members of the Indian squad were involved in the IPL and arrived in England less than two weeks before the final. Rahul Dravid, India’s head coach, had expressed his belief that a three-week period in England, along with two tour matches, would have been ideal preparation for the team. Former head coach Ravi Shastri has now shared his thoughts on the matter.

That’s Never Going To Happen: Ravi Shastri

When asked about the need for a significant gap between the IPL and the WTC Final in the post-match show on Star Sports, Ravi Shastri dismissed the possibility, stating that it ultimately boils down to the players’ personal choices.

Ravi Shastri also emphasized the role of the cricket establishment in addressing this issue, suggesting that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) should consider implementing certain clauses for franchises if the WTC Final is scheduled after the IPL in June.

Also Read: WTC Final: Match Report – Australia Win The World Test Championship As India Suffer Yet Another Heartbreak In ICC Event

“That’s never going to happen. Let’s be realistic. You’re going to get 20 days, but if that’s the case, you got to miss the IPL. The choice is yours.”

“It’s up to the establishment as well. I’m sure the BCCI is going to review this in the future. If the WTC Final is going to come after the IPL, in month of June, for that season, if your team qualifies for the final, there should be certain clauses put in for the franchises.”

Team India’s arrival in England was staggered due to the players’ commitments in the IPL. Notably, Mohammed Shami, Shubman Gill, and Ravindra Jadeja, who featured prominently in the final, arrived later as they were involved in the IPL final.

Also Read: WTC Final: WATCH – Australian Players Erupt In Joy As Nathan Lyon Picks The Last Wicket To Clinch WTC Title

The debate surrounding the ideal balance between IPL participation and preparation for international events continues to attract attention. While some argue for longer breaks to ensure adequate rest and practice, others acknowledge the challenges posed by the crowded cricketing calendar.

As India reflects on their defeat in the WTC Final, discussions around finding a balance between franchise commitments and international duty are likely to persist. The hope is that the cricketing authorities will consider the interests of both players and the national team in order to optimize preparation and performance in crucial tournaments.