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As the Champions Trophy 2025 enters its crucial phase, cricket experts and former players are sharing insights, analysis, and unheard stories from the game. One such discussion took place in a recent episode of the popular show ‘Dressing Room’, where former India cricketer and renowned commentator Ravi Shastri made an appearance.
Shastri, known for his charismatic presence both on and off the field, spoke about the origins of the famous ‘Shaz and Waz’ TV segment and shared an amusing perspective on what made watching cricket exciting during his playing days.
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Cricket’s Appeal: Beyond Just the Game
During the conversation, Shastri candidly revealed that seeing only men in the audience made the cricketing experience monotonous. However, the presence of women in the stands added excitement to the game and motivated players in a different way.
“When we used to play cricket, if there were only men watching the game, it was not fun. But when you saw some [females], then you felt like you were really playing sport,” Shastri said on Sports Central’s YouTube channel.
He further explained that players felt an extra urge to impress—not just with their performances, but also with their overall presence.
“You felt like you had to impress, not just on the field with your performances, but also those who were watching. And let’s face it, they [women] add colour. They add a different vibe.”
How ‘Shaz and Waz’ Was Born
Shastri also shed light on how the iconic ‘Shaz and Waz’ show came into existence.
- The idea was pitched by a producer named Ray Hugh, who wanted to break the monotony of serious cricket discussions.
- The show was initially planned to be a mid-match entertainment segment featuring guests during tea breaks.
- When asked about the type of guests they should invite, Shastri humorously suggested, “If we are picking up guests, then pick up a female. Far better off doing that.”
- The move was not just about entertainment but also helped promote women’s cricket, which was still growing at the time.
The Impact of ‘Shaz and Waz’
The show, hosted by Ravi Shastri (‘Shaz’) and Wasim Akram (‘Waz’), first aired in January 2004 during India’s tour of Australia. It quickly became a fan favorite.
- It provided a lighthearted break from intense cricket discussions.
- Guests included professionals from various fields—models, chefs, students, and more—who also happened to be cricket enthusiasts.
- The show’s unique format skyrocketed its popularity, breaking into the top 10 cricket shows within a short period.
- It reportedly boosted the channel’s viewership by 65%.
“When you picked up your phone [after the show], there would be 15 messages—all men, all jealous guys (laughs),” Shastri joked.
Shastri’s Take: Cricket is Entertainment
Through his conversation, Shastri emphasized that cricket is not just about numbers and statistics but also about the atmosphere, the energy, and the people watching. Whether on the field or in the commentary box, he has always believed in making the sport engaging and entertaining for fans.
With the Champions Trophy 2025 in full swing, such anecdotes from cricketing legends add a refreshing touch to the serious competition, making the sport even more enjoyable for fans across the world.
