Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has spoken candidly about dealing with criticism, especially when it turns personal, reflecting on how his outlook has evolved through his journeys as a player, broadcaster and coach.
The 63-year-old admitted that criticism affected him deeply during his early playing days, particularly when it crossed the line into personal territory. However, with experience and maturity, the Mumbai-born former all-rounder learned to process such moments better and focus only on feedback that helped his growth.
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“When I was a player, I would be criticised, and when it became personal, it would disappoint me,” Shastri said during an ICC event in association with Marriott Bonvoy. “But with time, you learn how to handle those situations. I prefer criticism that’s constructive.”
Shastri also spoke about his approach as a broadcaster, underlining the importance of honesty and professional detachment, even when commenting on players he once shared close bonds with. According to him, his primary responsibility lies with the viewer and the game itself.
“When I became a broadcaster, I said I’ve divorced the dressing room. I will speak about what I see,” he explained. “It doesn’t matter if you were my colleague or my friend when I played. My job is to tell the viewer the truth. That’s my opinion.”
Reflecting on his time as India’s head coach, Shastri acknowledged that criticism is inevitable in a high-pressure role and that success and failure are part of the journey. He added that he never allowed himself to become overly attached to either.
“As a coach, you expect criticism. There were good moments and rough moments, but you have to take it in your stride,” Shastri said. “One day you’re in a pole position, the next you’re in a troll position. In a week, you can be in pole, troll, and pole again. That’s the nature of the game.”
