Former head coach Ravi Shastri highlighted the importance of proper planning as he believes there is a pool of talented Indian youngsters ready to take world cricket by storm.
While Shastri acknowledged that India’s white-ball talent pool is fairly rich due to the Indian Premier League, he believes careful consideration should be given while promoting the same set of players to Test cricket.
According to Shastri, records in red-ball format, the quality of opposition faced, conditions played in and the temperament of players should be taken into consideration before picking a player for Tests.
"There are seniors ready to be phased out and there are youngsters ready. No question about it when it comes to T20 cricket. Lesser in 50-over cricket and even fewer in Tests," Shastri told The Week.
"Because of the IPL, you see an abundance of high-quality, young, white-ball players. But, one should not get carried away by that and think they should be automatic red-ball choices. No, I would rather see the red-ball record. I would sit with the selectors and find out more about who the [red-ball performances] were against, in what conditions, what are their strengths, what is the temperament of the bloke like.
"For me, temperament is key. It is paramount. Does the guy have the stomach for a fight? When it gets hot in the kitchen, is he is ready to bite the bullet? These are qualities I look for in a [Test] player. When I use the word fearless as a coach, these are the qualities that make a fearless cricketer. Backing his own ability and his strengths, and not wavering."
Shastri feels strong bench strength is a key to success as it would ensure a smooth transition when senior players are ready to phase out.
"Luckily for India, the volume of players that play the game, compared with other countries, [is high]. I think you should always have a strong bench across formats," he remarked.
Ravi Shastri also termed the Indian team as favourites for the 50-over World Cup at home later this year.
"They (India) are playing at home. I think they are one of the favourites. I am telling you now; I think they can win this one. Provided they get the right balance of experience and youth. And there is enough time to identify the squad that you want. And if you get your full-strength side, I think India are favourites, with England and Australia," he opined.
