In a decisive move by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the future of Rahul Dravid as the head coach of the Indian cricket team has been cemented. BCCI officially declared on Wednesday an extension of Dravid’s tenure along with the continuation of the support staff, namely bowling coach Paras Mhambrey, batting coach Vikram Rathour, and fielding coach T Dilip—bringing clarity to the leadership structure after a period of speculation.
Following the culmination of Dravid’s contract at the close of ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023, fruitful negotiations sealed his role for an extended period. “The BCCI engaged in productive discussions with Mr. Rahul Dravid after the term of his contract ended following the recently concluded ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 and unanimously agreed to further the tenure,” stated the BCCI official announcement.
The decision, as per reports by The Indian Express, aligns with the views of India’s captain Rohit Sharma and chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar, who back Dravid’s leadership until the next T20 World Cup scheduled to be held in the USA and West Indies starting June next year. Dravid, who had assumed the position of head coach after his illustrious cricketing career, was at the end of his contractual obligations with the World Cup’s conclusion.
Expressing his sentiments on the continuation of his journey with Team India, Dravid acknowledged the unit’s collective experience of success and challenge. “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,” stated Dravid. He emphasized the cultivation of resilience and adherence to meticulous preparation, believing they directly influence outcomes.
Dravid extended gratitude toward his family for their support and sacrifices, acknowledging the demanding nature of his coaching role which requires considerable time away from home.
The BCCI also highlighted the contribution of VVS Laxman, head of the National Cricket Academy (NCA) and occasional stand-in head coach in Dravid’s absence. “The Board also appreciates VVS Laxman for his exemplary roles as Head of NCA and as the stand-in Head Coach,” the official BCCI statement appreciated the seamless work between Dravid and Laxman in propelling Indian Cricket to new heights.
Reflecting on the recent performance under Dravid’s guidance, despite defeats in pivotal tournaments like the T20 World Cup semifinal against England, two World Test Championship finals against New Zealand and Australia, and the ODI World Cup final loss to Australia, BCCI President Roger Binny recognized the strategic impact Dravid had on the team. The Board, including BCCI Secretary Jay Shah, lauded the team’s World Cup journey as “extraordinary,” commending Dravid’s commitment in preparing the team to succeed.
Shah’s acknowledgement of Dravid’s role came with the assurance of the Board’s full support in future endeavors, underlining their confidence in his ability to foster sustained international success for the Indian cricket team.
The BCCI’s announcement represents not just an extension of contracts, but also the reinforcement of faith in Dravid’s vision and strategic direction as head coach. With renewed vigor and continued support, Team India is poised to embrace the forthcoming challenges under the strategic guidance and profound leadership of Rahul Dravid and his team of dedicated support staff.