Xtra Time Web Desk: Team India Head Coach Ravi Shastri on Wednesday chose to explain the significance of the number 36 in Indian cricket. The 58 year old former India captain turned Head Coach highlighted the significance of number 36 in India’s rich cricket history. He also shared the important role the number played in his career.
“Ha. Too many 36’s. Six 6s mine. Team 36 Adelaide. One day number 36. Gavaskar 36. @YUVSTRONG12 six 6s. Could be more,” Shastri tweeted.
Exactly 36 years ago on this day India created history by lifting the Benson & Hedges World Series, defeating arch rivals Pakistan in the final at Melbourne Cricket Ground. Shastri, who was the Man of the Series played a key role in the final. The entire Indian team riding on the Audi presented to Shastri has been an iconic picture in Indian cricket history.
Shastri hit six 6s in a Ranji Trophy match against Baroda while playing for Mumbai in 1984-85 season. The former India all-rounder was also in commentary box when Yuvraj Singh achieved the same feat against England in the 2007 T20 World Cup.
Legendary Sunil Gavaskar’s 36 not out in the 1975 World Cup against England is remembered for all the wrong reasons. I t was the slowest knock then by any batsmen. Gavaskar scored of 36 from 174 deliveries.
Just a few months back in December 2020, the Indian team was bundled out for 36 in the second innings against Australia at the Adelaide Oval, giving the hosts an easy victory (by eight wickets). However, the team turned their fortunes around by winning the Border Gavaskar Trophy 2-1 against all odds.
So, we see the number 36 has always played a significant role in Indian cricket. Hat’s off to Champion of Champions Ravi Shastri.