Shastri on why Kohli and Smith are so dangerous in Tests
Former India all-rounder Ravi Shastri has shared his insights on the recent form of the Fab Four - Kane Williamson, Joe Root, Steve Smith and Virat Kohli - recognising what they bring to the table in Test cricket.
Shastri discussed the current state of the quartet when speaking with host Sanjana Ganesan on the most recent episode of The ICC Review and spoke in depth on Kohli and Smith in particular and the ongoing struggles the experienced duo are facing.
While Root and Williamson have enjoyed a purple patch in 2024 - smashing six and four Test hundreds respectively - Kohli and Smith have just one each - both coming in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
"I think they (Kohli and Smith) will have slipped down the ranks on current form because you know you've got the likes of Root taking off, there's Williamson doing well, Harry Brook has come onto the scene, you know there are a lot of other young players pushing but these are class players," Shastri said.
"In a situation like this, you know they'll be dangerous because they'll be hungry."
Also Read: Shastri reveals key to Ashwin's greatness
Fab Four Stats in 2024
| Player | Matches | Runs | Average | Hundreds | Highest Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Joe Root | 17 | 1556 | 55.57 | 6 | 262 |
| Kane Williamson | 9 | 1013 | 59.58 | 4 | 156 |
| Steve Smith | 8 | 337 | 28.08 | 1 | 101 |
| Virat Kohli | 9 | 376 | 25.06 | 1 | 100* |
Ravi Shastri hails Ashwin's greatness | ICC Review
Shastri highlighted the importance of patience and mental strength in Test cricket, focusing on Smith as an example.
Despite having not-so-great numbers since the start of the year, the former Australia captain bounced back and stepped up when the team needed him, helping himself to his 33rd Test century at the Gabba against India.
"What’s needed you saw from Smith. It might have been a struggle early on but he was prepared to play the waiting game and be disciplined,” Shastri noted.
This resilience, according to Shastri, is what makes these players so dangerous when conditions aren't in their favour.
"I think the same with Virat,” Shastri added. “If Virat gets over that first 30, 40 minutes, with serious application and discipline, I don’t think he's (out of form), none of these guys are out of form.”