Shastri: Kohli and Smith's Hunger Makes Them a Threat
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New Delhi, Dec 24 (NationPress) Former Indian cricketer and head coach Ravi Shastri expressed his insights on the performances of cricket's legendary 'Fab Four'—Virat Kohli, Steve Smith, Joe Root, and Kane Williamson.
Shastri examined the varying fortunes of these players in the longest format of the game and underscored the resilience and hunger that continue to render Kohli and Smith formidable rivals.
While Root and Williamson have had an outstanding 2024, amassing six and four Test centuries respectively, Kohli and Smith have each managed only one, both during the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Root's remarkable performance has established him as one of the most consistent batters in modern cricket, while Williamson remains a paragon of elegance and composure at the crease.
"I believe they (Kohli and Smith) may have dropped in the rankings based on current form as you have players like Root excelling, and Williamson performing well, alongside emerging talents like Harry Brook. There are numerous young players making their mark, but these are class acts," Shastri shared with The ICC Review.
"In such circumstances, they will be a threat because they are hungry," he added.
Conversely, Kohli and Smith have encountered obstacles this year, being outperformed by young talents such as Harry Brook. Nevertheless, both seasoned players have displayed moments of brilliance, reminding the cricketing community why they are still considered among the elite.
Shastri commended Smith’s tenacity, referencing his resilient innings at the Gabba against India, where the Australian star notched his 33rd Test century.
"What you saw from Smith is what is required. It may have been challenging initially, but he was willing to adopt a patient approach and maintain discipline,” Shastri remarked.
Shastri is optimistic that Kohli can also return to his top form. He believes Kohli's current struggles are not about skill but rather about navigating the critical early moments of his innings.
"I feel the same applies to Virat," Shastri mentioned. "If Virat can get through the first 30 or 40 minutes with serious application and discipline, I don’t see him as being out of form; none of these players are out of form."
For Shastri, what distinguishes great players from the rest is their relentless desire to succeed, even during challenging times. He is confident that both Kohli and Smith possess the mental strength to endure tough patches and reclaim their dominance in the game.
