Shastri Reflects on India's Historic Comeback After the 36 All Out in Adelaide

Adelaide, Dec 5 (NationPress) When India was bowled out for an astonishing 36 runs in Adelaide during the 2020-21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, the then-coach Ravi Shastri conveyed a pivotal message to his squad that initiated one of cricket's most remarkable comebacks. "You can't do worse than that," he remarked to his players in the locker room.

"At times, maintaining composure in such circumstances yields the best outcomes," Shastri shared with The ICC Review.

This composed strategy turned a day of disgrace into a springboard for resilience and ultimate victory, as India went on to win the series 2-1 against all expectations.

The pink-ball Test in Adelaide appeared well-balanced until India’s second innings imploded in spectacular fashion. Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood took full advantage of favorable bowling conditions, leading the visitors to their lowest-ever Test score of just 36 runs.

Shastri, reflecting on that day, said, "I’d never witnessed so much edging in my life. If you edged, you were out. There was no playing and missing. It was remarkable."

The outcome left India in disgrace, as analysts and supporters dismissed their prospects for the rest of the series.

In the wake of the collapse, Shastri opted for a calm approach. He prioritized steadiness, relaying a straightforward message to the team: mistakes are part of the game, but your response defines you.

"There was no need for rash reactions," Shastri explained. "We understood that luck hadn’t favored us in that session. The crucial part was to trust our processes and rebound."

India’s comeback was evident in the very next Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. With captain Virat Kohli away on paternity leave, Ajinkya Rahane shone brightly. Rahane’s outstanding century propelled India to a convincing victory, leveling the series and demonstrating the team's resilience.

The bowlers, led by Jasprit Bumrah and newcomer Mohammed Siraj, executed a flawless performance, showcasing India’s determination to bounce back.

The third Test in Sydney revealed India’s tenacity and spirit. Following Rishabh Pant’s aggressive 97, the duo of Hanuma Vihari and Ravichandran Ashwin batted through injury to secure a remarkable draw.

Despite an injury-riddled squad, India demonstrated that spirit and character could overcome any obstacles.

The final Test at the Gabba, Australia’s stronghold for 32 years, tested India’s depth and resolve. Despite missing several key players, India successfully chased down 328 runs on the final day, largely due to Rishabh Pant’s fearless 89*.

Washington Sundar and Shardul Thakur delivered outstanding all-round performances, complemented by Siraj’s five-wicket haul, emphasizing the strength of India’s bench.

For Shastri, the turnaround from Adelaide to Brisbane exemplified the team’s belief and calmness under pressure. "Sometimes, the most challenging moments bring out the best in you. Adelaide taught us to concentrate on what we could manage and not allow a single bad day to define us," he stated.

As India gears up for another pink-ball Test in Adelaide, the lessons learned from the 36 all out remain pertinent. The collapse is now a source of motivation rather than a haunting memory, embodying the strength of resilience and composure.

"This team understands how to tackle challenges. Adelaide was a learning experience, while the series that followed was a narrative of redemption," Shastri concluded.