Ravi Shastri, a revered figure in the cricketing world, has transcended his role as a player to become one of the most iconic commentators in the sport. Known for his deep, resonant voice and a knack for timely humor, Shastri has entertained millions with his lively commentary. Beyond merely calling the game, his quips and one-liners have become legendary, earning him a special place in the hearts of cricket fans worldwide. Here’s a look at some of Ravi Shastri's funniest quotes that have lit up broadcasts and brought smiles to audiences everywhere.
“It is not an idli, it is not a dosa. It is not a medu vada, it is not a rava dosa. It is Uthappa!” - 2010
Back in 2010, during Robin Uthappa's red-hot IPL season for Royal Challengers Bangalore, commentator Ravi Shastri couldn't resist a play on words. Uthappa was on fire, amassing a whopping 374 runs in 16 matches with a blistering strike rate of 171.55. Shastri, in true Shastri fashion, compared him to the South Indian dish "Uthappam," declaring him to be the "top of the menu" for bowlers to tackle.
Thodi der ke liye udhar g*** muh me tha (It was a pretty scary situation for a few moments) - 2018
Following India's thrilling 32-run victory in the first Test against Australia at Adelaide during the 2018/19 tour, Ravi Shastri spoke with official broadcasters. Australia, needing just 74 runs with one wicket remaining on the final day, seemed poised for victory. But some resilient batting from Josh Hazlewood only delayed the inevitable as India clinched the win. Later, in conversation with Sunil Gavaskar, Shastri, clearly relieved, acknowledged the tense atmosphere. He humorously remarked on how close India came to defeat, highlighting the importance of the final wicket falling at the right time. This win gave India a crucial early lead in the four-match series.
Do saal se KL Rahul aur Shreyas Iyer thodi jhakk maar rahe the (KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer weren't wasting time for the past two years) - 2023
Calling the shots during the 2023 Asia Cup Hindi commentary, Ravi Shastri threw his weight behind KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer. He firmly asserted that despite their injury-enforced absence, both players remained India's top picks for the batting order.
“They (England) are jealous about the way the IPL is going, jealous that India is No.1 in world cricket, jealous about the fact that India are world champions.” - 2011
Tensions flared during India's 2011 tour of England when MS Dhoni's team opted out of using the Decision Review System (DRS). Concerns about the technology's accuracy led to this decision, which sparked a fierce debate between commentators Ravi Shastri and Nasser Hussain. The former England captain, Nasser Hussain, went as far as calling it a "disgrace," prompting a strong response from Shastri in defense of the Indian team's stance.
"153/4, 153 all out; if someone went around the corner for a dump and has come back, India have been bowled out for 153" - 2024
India's recent Cape Town Test outing saw them etch an unwanted record in international cricket. During a single over by Lungi Ngidi, India spectacularly lost three wickets – KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja, and Jasprit Bumrah – all falling for the same score. As if that wasn't enough, the next over by Kagiso Rabada saw the dismissals of Virat Kohli and Prasidh Krishna, followed by Mohammed Siraj's run-out. Ravi Shastri, on commentary duty, captured the essence of India's dramatic collapse in just 11 balls with a humorous remark
Shastri's ability to find humor in the game, without taking away from the seriousness of the competition, is a true talent. He's more than just a commentator; he's a cricket jester, a sultan of snickers, keeping viewers engaged and entertained ball by ball. So the next time you hear his booming voice on the airwaves, prepare to be informed, thrilled, and yes, even a little tickled.
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