Renowned Indian all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin shared a sentimental memory from his country’s recent victory in Barbados at the T20 World Cup 2024. After leading the team to their first major ICC triumph in eleven years, Ashwin revealed how former head coach Rahul Dravid overcame emotions, hugged the trophy, and broke down in tears.
Following the Men in Blue’s victory in the T20 World Cup, Dravid’s time as head coach came to an end. This achievement was very meaningful because Dravid was never able to win an ICC World Cup Trophy during his playing career. Ashwin depicted the scene quite well.
“When Virat Kohli phoned Rahul Dravid and handed him the cup, that was my moment. I saw him cry and give the cup a hug. Rahul Dravid let out a cry and yell. I watched him take pleasure in it. That was something I felt a lot. I would want to speak about a holy individual. India was eliminated from the 50-over World Cup in 2007. At the time, the captain was Rahul Dravid. After that, he stopped captaining the one-day squad. On his YouTube channel, Ashwin stated, “He has been a member of the Indian team.”
I am aware of his balance: Ravichandran Ashwin
The off-spinner continued to highlight the former head coach’s path, discussing the difficulties he encountered along the way. Ashwin brought up the criticism Dravid received following India’s early elimination from the 2007 World Cup in 50 overs, when he was captain of the squad.
“If something doesn’t go well, if the Indian team goes out or loses a match, immediately, they ask what Rahul Dravid is doing,” Ashwin said.
The 37-year-old, though, did not waste any time in praising the veteran for his dedication and careful approach to coaching and his pursuit of national championships in a new capacity.
“I’ve been aware of his activities with this squad for the last two to three years. I am aware of his level of equilibrium. I am aware of the effort he has put out to modify this strategy. I am aware of what he has provided for every player. He’s been scheming how to achieve this and that even while he’s just sitting at home,” he said.
Being his last job as India’s head coach, Dravid found special satisfaction in the triumph. Gautam Gambhir, a former Indian opener, assumed the position, ensuring that Dravid’s career concluded on the greatest possible note.