BCCI Awards 2024: Ravi Shastri reveals his 'icing on the cake moment' after receiving Col. C.K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award

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Hyderabad, Jan 23: In a fitting tribute to his illustrious and multifaceted cricketing career, former India cricketer and former head coach Ravi Shastri was on Tuesday (January 23) conferred with the prestigious Col. C.K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award at the Naman Awards 2024.

Former India cricketer Farokh Engineer was also bestowed the Col. C.K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award for his contribution towards Indian cricket. This year's awards were held in Hyderabad ahead of India's opening Test against England, starting January 25 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium.

The Naman Awards, an annual event organised by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), serve as a platform to recognise and celebrate the outstanding contributions of individuals to the sport.

During the award ceremony, Ravi Shastri, known for his articulate and passionate expressions both on and off the field, described this recognition as the "icing on the cake" of his remarkable journey as a cricketer, coach, and commentator. Shastri took a nostalgic trip down memory lane, reminiscing about some of the defining moments that shaped his cricketing legacy.

One of the pivotal moments etched in Shastri's memory was the 1985 World Championship of Cricket final at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Shastri - who was the player of the tournament in the multi-nation tournament - played a crucial role in Sunil Gavaskar-led side's title triumph Down Under in the 50-over competition.

Recalling India's triumph against arch-rivals Pakistan in 1985, Shastri expressed the significance of that victory. The 61-year-old also touched upon his experiences in the commentary box during India's triumphs in major tournaments.

The maestro recounted the thrill of witnessing India's glorious moments in the 2007 T20 World Cup and the 2011 World Cup finals from the commentary box, emphasising the emotional connection he felt with the team's success.

However, what Shastri termed as the "icing on the cake" among his myriad accomplishments was Team India's historic triumph at the Gabba Test against Australia. BCCI Awards 2024: Full List Of Award Winners From The Naman Awards Ceremony

Elaborating on his biggest achievement in cricket, the Mumbaikar said, "The most expensive medal for me is the Gabba win - The Rishabh Pant hitting the winning run."

The memorable victory, where Rishabh Pant struck the winning runs in a gritty run chase, marked one of the most spectacular overseas Test wins for India. The team, facing a formidable Australian side, secured a nail-biting 3-wicket win, breaching Australia's fortress at Brisbane.

Shastri lauded the resilience and determination displayed by the young Indian team under acting skipper Ajinkya Rahane's leadership, emphasising the significance of the Gabba Test win in the context of their overseas performances.

The victory not only showcased the team's ability to overcome adversity but also underscored the emergence of a new generation of Indian cricketers ready to take on the world.