Rahul Dravid, who coached India winning the T20 World Cup, said that being called by Rohit Sharma after losing the ODI World Cup last year was an experience he would never forget in his life.
The Indian cricket team led by Rohit Sharma won the T20 World Cup in Barbados to give Dravid his first ICC World cup title as a coach.
But, as Australia destroyed India’s dream of staying invincible in the ODI world cup finals at Ahmedabad and clinch their sixth title against them, Dravid’s term as a head coach was coming to an end on a sour note.
Afterwards, Rohit Sharma gave Dravid a phone call and requested him to remain as head coach until the T20 World Cup. This action touched Dravid, former Indian cricketer deeply.
“You know I wasn’t sure if I was going to carry on after that 50-Over World Cup and it was obviously great joy of having had a fantastic campaign but also just a little bit of disappointment because we couldn’t get over the line in the final,” explained Dravid during an event at Wankhede Stadium.
“For him to pick up the phone and say ‘Rahul let’s have one more crack at it in six or eight months’ time. It will be lovely to have another crack at it together’. It is something which am so grateful for because I got an opportunity of working with some exceptional good bunch of boys. And also what I experienced here. It is truly grateful there were probably one of my best calls that received,” added he
India’s delight upon earning their most sought-after crown became perceptible. The ever stoic and unflappable Dravid could not hide his emotions as soon as he held onto the trophy.
Dravid has always cherished his relationship with players; however, when reflecting on 2021 while contemplating his journey with Team India during these years, he showered praises on them.
His emotional statements as a coach laid bare the deep connection between him and his team and how proud he was of their accomplishments.
“I think they are like family. What these boys have done is just incredible. The amount of hard work that has gone in, the resilience shown, fighting spirit, not to give up and keep trying for improvement; we couldn’t really ask for more as coaches and support staff. Truly privileged to be part of this coaching group with these guys,” noted Dravid.
“I am going to miss this love. It’s been absolutely phenomenal what we have seen today. And what we have seen right from the time we have landed here. Just the love of these people and fans. Because of its supporters in India cricket is the greatest game on earth,” says Dravid.
India will soon announce their next head coach.
