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#4 Ravi Shastri happy with 'options' at India's disposal

Virat Kohli (left) and Ravi Shastri (right)

Indian head coach Ravi Shastri spoke about the positives arising out of a 2-1 comeback win against Australia and the national side's mindset ahead of their full tour of New Zealand starting January 24.

In an exclusive chat with PTI, Shastri spoke about the plethora of options for each place in the Indian team with the opener's slot and the wicket-keeping position taking away most of the limelight. He said that the versatility of KL Rahul in the batting order and behind the stumps have come as a huge surprise and added to their already abundant options. He also lamented the recurring injuries to senior batsman Shikhar Dhawan but took nothing away from the talented Kedar Jadhav.

“That toss will be taken out of the equation, we will play well irrespective of conditions, of opponents and in every country of the world. That’s what our aim is and that is what we are chasing. Yes, the World Cup remains an obsession and we will do all to fulfill that ambition.”

"The Australia series was proof of the mental strength and the ability to play under pressure. After the hammering at the Wankhede, to come back and play like the way we did, merits a lot of credit and praise.

“It showed courage and as Virat used the word brave, it showed we are unafraid to play brave cricket and with intent.”

"We love options.”

"Very sad because he (Dhawan) is a senior player. He is a match-winner. When someone suffers an injury of that sort, everyone is hurt in the team.

“Kedar is an integral part of the ODI team that will play in New Zealand. He will be treated like every other player.

Full article: New Zealand vs India 2020 | Ravi Shastri happy with 'options' at India's disposal in all departments