Ravi Shastri clears his stance on Sourav Ganguly

The newly appointed Indian head coach Ravi Shastri and Cricket Advisory Committee member Sourav Ganguly are known to have a bitter past after the two were involved in a spat over the appointment of India's coach last year. Ganguly had missed Shastri's interview and was accused by the former all-rounder for overlooking him for the post, while the former criticised him for not appearing for the interview in person.

However, Shastri suggested that his individual differences with the former Indian skipper are all in the past and don't matter when it comes to the Indian team.

“Individuals do not matter. We are both former captains and there is bound to be disagreements but that is all right. There were some good questions asked in the meeting and they were answered. Whatever happened in the meeting stays confidential. For the interest of Indian cricket we must move forward,” he told India Today.

Shastri, along with former Indian opener Virender Sehwag, were the favourites to be named as the Indian coach, but when the 55-year old was questioned regarding his state of mind during the interview process and the wait for the announcement of the coach he replied, “I have been chilling in London.”

Now that Shastri he has acquired the coveted position, he has numerous challenges laid ahead of him as India is scheduled to tour of Sri Lanka, South Africa, Australia, and England before the team competes in the 2019 World Cup. But to his credit, the new coach is up for the challenge.

“This is precisely the reason why I can’t wait to get started. This is a quality bunch and they can become one of the best Indian teams. I have no baggages and whatever happened in the last year doesn’t matter. I will start from where I left,” he said.

Finally, although Indian skipper, Virat Kohli has struggled against the short and out swinging deliveries in the recent times, Shastri has no doubt about Kohli's abilities. “He is a champion. Everyone has the right to fail,” Shastri asserted.

Moreover, the recently concluded series in West Indies drew everyone's attention to MS Dhoni and Yuvraj Singh who were both seen struggling for form on the tour, which raised questions regarding their role in the team. However, Shastri, who closely watched the team in the Champions Trophy and the tour of West Indies dodged questions on the duo's future.

“They are both champion players. The 2019 World Cup is a long time and we will take a decision at the right time,” he concluded.