The Virat Kohli-Ravi Shastri saga is a proof of the captain's importance in modern day cricket, says Ian Chappell

Former Australian cricketer Ian Chappell has his say on the captain-coach saga that has been making circles around Indian cricket for quite a while now. According to the retired player, the Virat Kohli-Anil Kumble chapter was a really engaging one and it portrays the power the skipper enjoys in the team. Or it might be stated as there has been a significant rise in the importance of a captain in modern day cricket.

In his column for Hindustan Times, Chappell wrote “Commencing with the role Virat Kohli played in changing the Indian coach, it’s been fascinating to watch the influence of current international captains on their respective teams.”

“Kohli didn’t have the same harmonious relationship with Anil Kumble that he enjoyed with Ravi Shastri when he was team director. The fact that India have now reverted to Shastri as coach, begs the question; “Why change something that isn’t broken?”

“The captain should have the coach he wants. If a coach is to be inflicted on a captain then at least it should be someone with whom he’s comfortable.” He added.

Richie Benaud theory:

Chappell went on to state that he used to believe that the captain always has a say in the selection process but he was discouraged on that matter by Richie Benaud.

“On the subject of captains and selection, I’m not in favour of the skipper being on the panel. I used to believe the captain should have a vote but I was dissuaded of that notion by the wise counsel of Richie Benaud. He explained that a captain might be tempted to justify his choice by utilising a player in favourable circumstances.” wrote Chappell.

“Joe Root is a good example of Benaud’s theory on the captain having input into selection but not a vote. It was widely trumpeted that Root got the team of his choice before the first Test and this seemed like a good idea after England comfortably won the opening joust.” added Chappell.