Bridgetown: Reflecting on his tenure following India’s T20 World Cup victory, outgoing head coach Rahul Dravid revealed in his farewell address that a pivotal phone call from India captain Rohit Sharma, urging him to continue after the ODI World Cup final defeat, influenced his decision to remain with the team.
Dravid’s coaching stint had initially concluded after India’s loss to Australia in the ODI World Cup final, despite a notable 10-match winning streak. However, the coaching staff received an extension through the T20 World Cup.
Although Dravid has opted not to reapply for the role post the T20 World Cup triumph, he acknowledged Rohit’s role in persuading him to continue during his speech at Kensington Oval’s dressing room, moments after the team’s victory on Saturday.
“Ro, I sincerely appreciate your call back in November, encouraging me to stay on,” Dravid expressed in a video shared by BCCI on Tuesday. “It has been an honor and pleasure working with each and every one of you. Ro, thank you for the camaraderie and the discussions—whether in agreement or disagreement.”
Dravid expressed gratitude for being part of the team’s remarkable achievement and emphasized the importance of cherishing such moments. “I am truly at a loss for words, but I simply want to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone for allowing me to be part of this incredible journey,” he stated.
The former India captain commended the team’s collective effort, resilience, and ability to overcome setbacks to clinch the World Cup title. “I couldn’t be prouder of your determination, resilience, and unity as a team. Despite past disappointments, you have risen above and made the entire nation proud,” he added.
Addressing BCCI Secretary Jay Shah and others present, Dravid highlighted the sacrifices made by families and support systems behind each player’s success. “The sacrifices made by your loved ones—from childhood to this moment—are truly commendable. Today, as we celebrate this victory, I am deeply honored to have shared this journey with all of you,” Dravid acknowledged.
While usually eloquent, Dravid admitted to being overwhelmed by emotions on this occasion but expressed gratitude for the team’s respect towards the coaching staff. “Today is a special day for me, and I am incredibly grateful for the respect and support shown by each one of you towards me, my coaching staff, and our support team,” he concluded.
Dravid also recognized the efforts of BCCI officials and others working behind the scenes to support the team’s success. “Behind every great team lies a well-functioning organization, and I extend my heartfelt appreciation to BCCI and everyone who has contributed tirelessly to our journey,” he concluded.
