Ajinkya Rahane Credits Kohli and Shastri for Toughening Indian Test Cricket

Ajinkya Rahane recently shared insights into the transformation of the Indian cricket team under the leadership of Virat Kohli and former head coach Ravi Shastri. He noted that the duo was instrumental in 'toughening up' the squad following the departure of MS Dhoni from the longest format. Rahane explained that while Dhoni laid a strong foundation, Kohli and Shastri introduced a more aggressive and fitness-oriented culture. This shift focused on winning matches in challenging overseas conditions. The emphasis on mental resilience became a hallmark of the team during their tenure, leading to historic series victories in Australia and competitive performances in England.

Rahane highlighted the deep professional bond he shared with Virat Kohli during their time as captain and vice-captain. He described their relationship as one built on mutual respect and a shared vision for Indian cricket. The middle-order batter credited Kohli for creating an environment where players felt empowered to express themselves. Rahane served as Kohli’s deputy for several years, most notably leading the team to a famous series win in Australia when Kohli was on paternity leave. This period is often cited as the peak of India’s dominance in Test cricket, driven by a clear hierarchy and collective goal-setting.

The reflections by Rahane underscore the lasting legacy of the Kohli-Shastri era on the current Indian setup. The standards for physical fitness and fast-bowling depth established then continue to benefit the national team today. For Indian fans, these revelations provide a behind-the-scenes look at how the team's identity evolved from being 'good at home' to 'formidable everywhere'. Rahane’s comments come at a time when India is transitioning under new leadership, serving as a reminder of the foundational work done by his predecessors. The focus now remains on whether the current squad can maintain those high standards of toughness in upcoming global tournaments.