India's unexpected loss to New Zealand, which broke a 12-year unbeaten streak at home, serves as a tough lesson, according to former captain and coach Ravi Shastri. Reflecting on the defeat, Shastri pinpointed that complacency had a role to play and urged the team to start strong in their upcoming Test series against Australia. Speaking to "The ICC Review", he noted that India's pride as a team would drive them to recover swiftly.
Shastri mentioned that New Zealand’s victory exposed India’s unpreparedness, which came as a shock. "The team would undoubtedly feel the sting of that loss," he shared, adding that the best way to move forward is by excelling in the initial matches of the Australian series. "Getting off to a solid start in the first two Tests is critical," he stressed.
Under the guidance of head coach Gautam Gambhir, Shastri suggested that maintaining the players' mental clarity would be paramount. "The coaching staff’s priority should be fostering a positive mindset among the players before the five-match series begins on November 22," he advised.
Drawing inspiration from India’s historic victories in Australia during the 2018-19 and 2020-21 tours, Shastri urged the team to focus on their strengths. He encouraged them to recall their past triumphs Down Under and to approach the series with renewed confidence. "Leave the past behind, focus on the present conditions, and capitalise on Australia’s favourable batting tracks," he suggested.
"It's playing on their mind, confidence-wise. You can't go to the negatives. Think about the positives," he said. "Think about what you did in Australia last time around and take it ahead from there. Put what (has) happened behind you. These are different conditions and some of the tracks in Australia when you get in are probably the best to bat," Shastri said.