Had great time with Ravi Shastri, but Rahul Dravid is best coach: Vikram Rathour shares bold verdict

The Indian cricket team has experienced a rollercoaster of highs and lows and stood tall through it all over the past 8-9 years, thanks to two of the most influential coaches in recent history: Ravi Shastri (2017-2021) and Rahul Dravid (2021-2024).

Former Indian batting coach Vikram Rathour has had the privilege of working with both Shastri and Dravid. Recently, Rathour shared a glimpse into the former head coaches’ contrasting yet equally impactful coaching styles, revealing the magic that has driven the national team’s success.

Ravi Shastri likes to keep good vibes in the dressing room: Vikram Rathour

Speaking about Shastri, known for his larger-than-life persona, Rathour said that the former Indian head coach showcased his exceptional man-management skills, especially during one of India's most challenging tours of Australia. When India was bowled out for a mere 36 runs in Adelaide, Shastri's response was nothing short of legendary.

The former Indian batting coach said that Shastri’s ability to maintain positivity and keep morale high, regardless of setbacks, was the best part of his leadership. Rathour said that he really enjoyed working with Shastri, who created an atmosphere of resilience and confidence in the team.

Vikram Rathour was quoted as saying by Sportstar: “Great man management skills. He doesn’t let a poor session or a match affect him too much. After the 36 all out, his reaction was brilliant. ‘Let’s wear it as a badge on a shirt. And let’s be fine. Let’s keep the chin up’. He likes to keep good vibes in the dressing room. I had a great time being with him.”

On the other hand, Rahul Dravid brought a different flavor to the coaching dynamic when he took over from Shastri following Team India’s poor T20 World Cup 2021 campaign in the UAE.

Dravid, known for his calm demeanor and methodical approach, took charge when the Indian team was undergoing significant transitions, his deep understanding of the game, calmness under pressure, thoroughness, and discipline turned out to be game-changers for the Men in Blue.

Rahul Dravid is the best coach I’ve worked with: Vikram Rathour

Sharing the experience of working with Dravid, who recently stepped down from the position after winning the T20 World Cup 2024, Rathour called him the best coach he has worked with so far. He said that their professional bond grew stronger working together for India.

The former Indian batting coach said that Dravid has great character, and the way he remained composed and focused amidst high expectations is unbelievable.

Under Dravid’s coaching, Team India reached the final of the ODI World Cup 2023, the WTC, and the semifinal of the 2022 T20 World Cup and won the T20 World Cup 2024 in the West Indies and USA.

Rathour signed off by saying: “Rahul is the best coach I’ve worked with. He has a great character and is good at what he does. He talks well, is very thorough, and is disciplined with his coaching. He took over when India was in a transition phase with significant challenges ahead. We were good friends. And we are even better friends now. The expectations were higher when he joined. He was calm and composed through these challenging times.”