Former India player comments on Rahul Dravid accepting contract extension as Head Coach of Indian cricket team

There were widespread reports indicating that Dravid was not eager to extend his contract due to the busy schedule of the Indian team. However, he ultimately agreed to continue in the role upon the request of the Indian Cricket Board (ICB).

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Rahul Dravid (Source: Twitter)

Rahul Dravid will remain in his position as the head coach of the India men's team, as announced by the Indian Cricket Board on November 29. There were widespread reports indicating that Dravid was not eager to extend his contract due to the busy schedule of the Indian team. However, he ultimately agreed to continue in the role upon the request of the Indian Cricket Board.

The former India cricketer, Gautam Gambhir responded to the news, expressing that it is beneficial for India that they won't have to make a coaching change ahead of the T20 World Cup 2024. India is set to participate in the global event in June next year, with the tournament scheduled to take place in the Caribbean islands and the United States of America.

"It's a good thing. The T20 World Cup is around the corner. It's what, seven months away? You don't want to change the entire support staff. It's good that Rahul has accepted it," Gambhir said as quoted by news agency ANI.

The performances of the Indian Team are a testament to his strategic guidance: Gambhir

Under the coaching of Rahul Dravid, India developed a clear identity, playing attacking cricket in the ODI format and reaching the final of the World Cup 2023 undefeated. Despite losing the final to Australia, the team was recognized as the most consistent in the tournament. Gautam Gambhir expressed optimism about India's ability to maintain their dominance in cricket and perform well. Earlier in the day, ICB president Roger Binny extended gratitude to Rahul Dravid for accepting the contract extension, acknowledging Dravid's success in his role despite facing pressure.

"Mr. Rahul Dravid’s 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 immense 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 it 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," ICB president Binny said.

 

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