Dubai: Ravi Shastri has hit out strongly against the critics by defending his squad’s performance during the four and-a-half month tour of Australia.
India bowed out to eventual champions Australia in the World Cup semi-final at the Sydney Cricket Ground last Thursday.
The team director did not mince his words when he spoke to Gulf News.
“Now the media can put the Indian team’s performance in perspective after watching the one-sided World Cup final between Australia and New Zealand,” the former India all-rounder said.
Drawing attention to the semi-final against Australia, Shastri stated bluntly: “On the given day Australia were a far better team and I give two hoots to what the discussion is after that.
“Having been in the media myself I know that people need to debate on issues to fill up their air time – whether it is TV, radio, or in print.
“India got better and better with every game they played. They finally lost to an opponent who’s superiority was never in doubt judging by the way they demolished New Zealand in the final on Sunday.
“Australia have tremendous depth in their batting and bowling and man-to-man they are a tighter unit than most teams.
“India’s best chance came on the given day but it was a big toss to lose.
“In the semi-final of the World Cup everything that you have done till then goes into the back burner. You simply have to be good on the day.
“But no excuses, the players learnt a lot and the better team beat us. I have no regrets about that.
“The Indian team that played in the World Cup was magnificent.”
