Over a week has passed since the Rohit Sharma-led Indian cricket team faced disappointment in the ODI Cricket World Cup 2023. As the Indian squad continues its pursuit of an elusive ICC title—a feat they last achieved under the captainship of MS Dhoni—there’s growing speculation about the potential appointment of a new head coach. With Rahul Dravid’s current term as head coach coming to an end, questions linger over whether he will seek to continue in the role.
In the wake of India’s exit from the World Cup, former Indian cricket team opener Gautam Gambhir, who was part of both the 2007 T20 and the 2011 ODI Cricket World Cup-winning teams, has stepped forth to advocate for Dravid’s tenure extension. “The way India have played in the World Cup, his contract should be renewed automatically. It would be unjust to appraise a coach’s performance based on a single match outcome. The aspirations and challenges of a coach are intrinsically bound to those of the players; everyone strives to secure the World Cup for the team. If Dravid is keen on continuing, the best way forward is to uphold continuity,” said Gambhir in his statement to Sportskeeda.
Adding to his remarks, Gambhir shared a critique surrounding the recent statement made by Rohit Sharma before the World Cup final. Sharma had expressed a desire to win the title for an individual—presumably Dravid—based on his support for the team during tough times, including the positive run leading up to their semifinal loss in the T20 World Cup. Gambhir, who has consistently highlighted team and country over individual accolades, reiterated, “You are vying for the World Cup on behalf of the entire country, not for an individual. If someone holds such intentions, they should refrain from discussing them publicly and keep them to themselves. Winning a World Cup should always be for the nation first and foremost. I faced similar questions in 2011 and stood firm, stating that our goal was to bring the Cup home for India, not just a sole individual.”
Furthermore, Gautam Gambhir underscored the importance of maintaining stability in the team’s leadership, emphasizing the potential advantages of extending Rahul Dravid’s coaching contract for an additional two years. “Dravid’s coaching credentials undoubtedly qualify him for an extension, if he opts to remain. I am extremely content with his tenure, and I firmly believe that he should be offered at least two more years. Given that the team could soon enter a rebuilding phase, with key players like Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, and Mohammed Shami possibly missing the next World Cup, it is critical to start preparing for the upcoming 50-over World Cup,” Gambhir explained.
While the Indian cricket fraternity and fans await a decision on the coaching front, the focus is also on upcoming cricket schedules, including the eagerly anticipated India vs Australia series in 2023. Supporters continue to stay updated with the latest sports updates, accessing news through social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter or by downloading apps like the NDTV Cricket app—ensuring they never miss a beat on the latest in cricket, both on and off the pitch.
As discussions around Dravid’s potential contract extension progress, the broader conversation in Indian cricket revolves around long-term strategic planning and building a robust foundation for future challenges. The emphasis remains on continuity, consistent leadership, and preparing for the generational shift that awaits Indian cricket, with hopes of culminating in World Cup glory.