Reliving Ravi Shastri’s all-round brilliance and iconic victory lap on his special day

On his 62nd birthday, we look back at the incredible journey of Ravi Shastri, whose all-round brilliance in the Benson & Hedges World Championship of Cricket 1985 earned him the title 'Champion of Champions' and a coveted Audi 100 sedan.

The format

The Benson & Hedges World Championship of Cricket in 1984/85 was no ordinary tournament. It marked the 150th anniversary of European settlement in the Australian state of Victoria and brought together seven test-playing nations. The games were held at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) and Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), featuring the first-ever matches under lights at the MCG, adding a new dimension to the cricketing spectacle.

India, Pakistan, Australia, and England were in Group A, while Group B comprised the West Indies, New Zealand, and Sri Lanka. The format was straightforward yet challenging: a round-robin followed by semi-finals and a final. India emerged as a dominant force, undefeated throughout the tournament, defeating Pakistan, Australia, and England in the group stages, New Zealand in the semi-finals, and arch-rivals Pakistan in the final to lift the trophy.

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Shastri was one of the impactful all-rounder of Indian cricket

The all-round maestro

Ravi Shastri was the linchpin of India's success in the tournament. With his multifaceted skills, he ended up being the third-highest run scorer and wicket-taker of the series. Shastri's contribution was immense: he claimed 8 wickets in 50 overs, including 5 maidens, showcasing his prowess with the ball. 

His batting was equally formidable, amassing 182 runs in five matches at an average of 45.50, with three half-centuries to his name. His best performance with the bat came against Australia, where he scored a crucial 63 runs, steering India to a strong total.

Group stage dominance

India's journey in the group stage was marked by comprehensive victories. Against Pakistan, India set a target of 183 runs and bowled out Pakistan for 138, with Shastri contributing both with the bat and ball. 

In the match against Australia, India posted a competitive 208/7, and Shastri's all-round performance was pivotal in restricting Australia to 173. The encounter with England saw India score 224/7, with Shastri playing a crucial role again, helping to dismiss England for 148.

India vs. Pakistan

The final against Pakistan was a high-stakes affair, with both teams having a rich history of intense rivalry. Shastri’s all-round performance was pivotal in India’s victory.

He scored an unbeaten 63 runs, helping India set a challenging target of 177. His disciplined bowling ensured that Pakistan's chase was thwarted, as he took three crucial wickets for 40 runs, restricting Pakistan to 151.

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Shastri with his Audi

The Audi moment

Shastri's stellar performances throughout the tournament earned him the 'Champion of Champions' accolade. The prize was an Audi 100 sedan, a luxurious and coveted reward. Shastri recalls this as an unforgettable moment, not just for the honour but for the unique circumstances surrounding the car’s import to India. Then Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi intervened, waiving the heavy import duty that would have otherwise been a significant barrier.

A victory lap to remember

During the presentation ceremony, the entire Indian team spontaneously sat in Shastri's newly won car, prompting him to take an impromptu victory lap around the ground. This spontaneous celebration became an iconic image, symbolising the camaraderie and joy of that triumphant moment.

The car stands as a testament to that golden era, a symbol of excellence and the sweet taste of victory.