The significant role of fortune in deciding the outcome of important games was underscored by Indian legend and former head coach Rahul Dravid. Reflecting on India’s recent ICC campaigns, Dravid pointed to their loss to Australia in the final of the ODI World Cup before beating South Africa in the T20 world cup as examples that put emphasis on how luck can influence even the best prepared teams.
India went into the ODI Cricket World Cup final with a perfect record of ten consecutive wins. However, it turned out to be a disappointment as Australia took the day leaving Indian fans crestfallen. Six months later, Dravid had another shot at glory with captain Rohit Sharma when they played against South Africa in the T20 World Cup final. This time around good fortune smiled at India.
While receiving his Lifetime Achievement Award at this year’s Ceat Cricket Rating Awards, he spoke about how fine are those margins between winning and losing major matches.
“I have had time to think through it. I have had time to reflect on a lot of things we have done. Sometimes you just know you’ve got to do these things right and get everything going through – sometimes you just need that bit of luck,” said Rahul Dravid.
Dravid recalled how India defended 30 runs from 30 balls in an intense T20 World Cup final. He praised Rohit for his calmness under pressure and also mentioned a crucial moment where
India’s David Miller was removed by Suryakumar Yadav’s fabulous catch on boundary line which became one of the turning points in favor of his team.
“You must have someone who is able to keep their foot within one inch away from that line but who has got skill,” he explained referring to Yadav’s game changing grasp.
On contrast, Rahul Dravid recollected how Travis Head survived several close shaves from Indian bowlers before scoring a century that saw Australia win ODI world cup final. “I remember we beat Travis Head’s bat 15 times – he didn’t touch a single ball”, said Dravid highlighting that sporting contests are often unpredictable.
Expressing his optimism about the future of Indian cricket as he steps down from coaching, Rahul Dravid believes that players like Rohit Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav will continue to lead the team towards great success globally.
