Rohit Sharma, the Indian captain, disclosed his efforts to persuade Rahul Dravid to remain as the team’s head coach, albeit unsuccessfully. He acknowledged the challenge of the team parting ways with the Indian legend. Dravid, who assumed the role of India‘s head coach following Ravi Shastri after the 2021 T20 World Cup, has affirmed that the ongoing 2024 T20 World Cup in the West Indies and the United States marks his final assignment as Team India’s head coach.
The Indian team will kick off their campaign in the ICC event with a game against Ireland at the Nassau County International Cricket Stadium in New York on Wednesday, June 5. Speaking at a pre-match press conference, Indian skipper Rohit expressed his reflections on Dravid’s choice and stated:
“I tried convincing him to stay, but obviously there are a lot of things that he needs to look after as well. But yeah, I personally enjoyed my time with him. I’m sure the rest of the guys will say the same. It’s been great working with him.”
Interestingly, Dravid led the Indian team when Rohit made his international debut against Ireland in June 2007. Looking back on his extensive connection with the batting legend, Rohit showered praise on the departing head coach, stating:
“He was my first international captain when I made my debut in Ireland. Then I’ve seen him play while I was just coming into the team (for) Test matches when he was captain. And such a big role model for all of us.”
“Growing up, we watched him play and we know what he has achieved, personally as a player and also what he’s done for the team over the years. Battling out the team from difficult situations and that is what he’s known for,” the Indian skipper went on to add.
During the Rohit-Dravid era, Team India may not have clinched an ICC trophy yet, but Rohit emphasized that they have secured victory in other significant tournaments. He further expressed his enjoyment of his partnership with Dravid.
“It’s been very fruitful. Other than the big silver (trophy), we won all the major tournaments and series. I’ve enjoyed every bit of it, working with him, deciding what direction the team needs to head,” the Indian captain commented.
Dravid’s tenure as head coach concluded after the 2023 ODI World Cup in India, but the BCCI extended an offer for him to continue until the 2024 T20 World Cup, which he accepted. During the captain-coach partnership of Rohit and Dravid, India reached the final of the 2023 World Test Championship (WTC) and the 2023 ODI World Cup, falling to Australia in both instances.
Rahul Dravid’s statement upon confirming his departure as Team India’s head coach
Addressing a press briefing on Monday, Dravid affirmed that the current 2024 T20 World Cup would mark his last stint as coach of the senior Indian men’s cricket team. While expressing his satisfaction with the role, he clarified that he would not seek to renew his tenure.
“It is going to be the last tournament that I am going to be in charge of. I’ve loved doing the job. I have really enjoyed coaching India. It’s a truly special job to do. I’ve enjoyed working with this team. It’s a great bunch of boys to work with,” Dravid said.
“Considering the kind of schedules and where I find myself in the stage of my life, I don’t think I will be able to reapply. So yeah, it’s going to be my last one,” the Indian legend went on to add.
Although Dravid has confirmed his departure as coach, the ICC event is expected to be the final World Cup for both Rohit and Virat Kohli.
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