Team India Head coach, Rahul Dravid’s contract has been extended as it ended after the World Cup. Now he along with other coaches will again be seen for serving the coaching to the national side.
It was earlier expected that after the final of the World Cup, Dravid might opt out from the coaching but under his guidance Indian team showed their full potential and became one of the best teams in the world. Batting coach Vikram Rathore, fielding coach T Dilip and bowling coach Paras Mhambrey will also continue their services for the team.
Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) said in a statement,
“BCCI announces the extension of contracts for head coach Mr Rahul Dravid and the support staff of team India (senior men). The BCCI engaged in productive discussions with Mr Rahul Dravid after the turn of his contract ended following the recently concluded ICC mens cricket world cup 2023 and unanimously agreed to further the tenure.
The board acknowledges Mr Dravid’s instrumental role in moulding the Indian team and commends his exceptional professionalism. The board also appreciates Mr VVS Laxman for his exemplary roles as Head coach of NCA and as the standing head coach. Similar to their legendary on field partnership Mr Dravid and Mr Laxman in driving Indian cricket forward.”
On this Rahul Dravid said,
“The last 2 years with Team India have been thoroughly memorable. Together we have witnessed the highs and lows, and throughout this journey the support and camaraderie day within the group have been phenomenal. I am genuinely proud of the culture we have set in the dressing room.
It’s a culture that stands resilient, whether in moments of triumph or adversity. The skills and talent that our team possesses are phenomenal and what we have stressed is following the right process and sticking to our preparation which has had a direct impact on the overall result.
I hang the BCCI and the office bearers for placing their trust in me, endorsing my vision and providing support during this period. The demands of this role necessitate considerable time away from home and I deeply appreciate my family sacrifices and support. Their instrumental role behind the scenes has been invaluable. As we embrace new challenges post the world cup we remain committed to the pursuit of excellence.”
BCCI president Roger Binny said, “Mr Rahul Dravid vision, professionalism and unyielding efforts have been important pillars in team India’s success. As Head coach of the Indian cricket team you are always under intense scrutiny and I extend appreciation to him not only for embracing the challenges but for thriving in them.
The performances of the Indian team are a testament to his strategic guidance. I am delighted that he accepted the offer to remain the head coach and speaks of the mutual respect and shared vision between him and the BCCI. I have no doubt that under him the team will continue its march to the Pinnacle of success and set new benchmarks along the way.”
Jay Shah, the BCCI secretary said, “I had mentioned that there is no better person than Rahul Dravid to take over the role of head coach at the time of his appointment and Mr Dravid has proven himself again with his unparalleled commitment to excellence. Team India is now a medieval unit across for men and a top ranking in all three formats directly reflect his vision, guidance and the road map charted for the team.
Having won 10 consecutive games before the final our world champion campaign was nothing short of extraordinary and the head coach deserves appreciation for setting up the right platform for the team to flourish. The head coach has our full backing and we will provide him with all the support needed to sustain success at the international level.”