Following India's World Cup final defeat, speculations emerged regarding Rahul Dravid's reluctance to extend his coaching tenure. Reports suggested the BCCI explored various options, including VVS Laxman, amid uncertainties. However, the Indian Cricket Board has officially confirmed the renewal of Rahul Dravid's contract as the head coach of the Indian team, along with the extension of contracts for the remaining support staff. Gautam Gambhir has now shared his thoughts regarding this.
Gambhir commends the extension of Rahul Dravid's contract as Team India's head coach, emphasising its significance with the T20 World Cup approaching. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) recently confirmed Dravid's extension alongside the support staff for the forthcoming tour of South Africa, which includes ODIs, T20Is, and Tests, followed by a Test series against England before the ICC T20 World Cup in June.
Gambhir expects India's continued dominance and hopes for a strong performance in the challenging T20 format under Dravid's leadership. He acknowledges the importance of maintaining stability within the support staff, especially with the T20 World Cup on the horizon, expressing confidence in Dravid and the team's abilities.
“It’s A Good Thing”
"It's a good thing because the T20 World Cup is around the corner and you don't want to change the entire support staff, and it is good that Rahul has accepted it. Hopefully, we can continue to dominate and play good cricket, what India has done for a long period of time. The T20 format is different and challenging and hopefully, Rahul and the support staff can deliver. Congratulations to them," Gambhir told ANI.
Rahul Dravid took over from Ravi Shastri after India's disappointing ICC T20 World Cup campaign in 2021 and was initially appointed for a two-year term, culminating with India's runner-up finish in the recent ICC Cricket World Cup at home.
Expressing his sentiments on the extension, Dravid expressed pride in the team's journey and highlighted the camaraderie within the group. He credited the team's resilience and emphasised the culture they've fostered. Dravid also thanked the BCCI for their trust, acknowledging the sacrifices of his family and committing to pursuing excellence in the forthcoming challenges after the World Cup.
“The last two years with Team India have been thoroughly memorable. Together, we have witnessed the highs and lows, and throughout this journey, the support and camaraderie 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.
I thank 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's 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," said Dravid.