“As a player, I was not lucky enough to win a trophy…this bunch of boys made it possible” – Rahul Dravid as India beat SA to win 2024 T20 World Cup
Team India head coach Rahul Dravid was delighted that his side beat South Africa by seven runs to lift the 2024 T20 World Cup final at Kensington Oval in Barbados on Saturday, June 29. Dravid expressed his gratitude to Rohit Sharma and company for helping him win a World Cup as coach after he missed out on the title during his illustrious playing career.
During his coaching stint (2021-2024), Dravid helped India reach the 2022 T20 World Cup semifinal, the 2023 ICC World Test Championship final, and the 2023 ODI World Cup final.
The former India captain looked jubilant in his celebrations while lifting the trophy at the podium. The Men in Blue had another special moment with Dravid when they tossed him in the air after giving him a fitting farewell.
Rahul Dravid told the reporters post-match (via PTI):
"Firstly, there is no redemption. As a player, I was not lucky enough to win a trophy (World Cup). But I tried my best whenever I played. It is a part of Sport. There have been many players who have not won a World Cup. I was lucky to have been given the opportunity to coach the team. I was lucky that this bunch of boys made it possible. I was doing my job, I loved working with Rohit and this team.”
Rahul Dravid had also coached India to the 2018 U19 World Cup trophy, where the Prithvi Shaw-led side beat Australia in the final.
“I was lucky to have an intelligent bunch of coaches and support staff” – Rahul Dravid
Rahul Dravid reserved special praise for the support staff as India finally lifted the trophy after playing three ICC finals in the last 12 months.
“I am not a legacy person. I just feel glad that we gave the best. I also want to acknowledge the support staff, I was lucky to have an intelligent bunch of coaches and support staff. We created a great environment. It resulted in this trophy. The fans keep supporting the team. I am feeling so grateful to give them a moment like this," the 51-year-old said in the same interaction.
The support comprised Vikram Rathour (batting coach), Paras Mhambrey (bowling coach), and T Dilip (fielding coach).
As per reports, Gautam Gambhir will be the next India head coach. The two-time World Cup winner recently served as a mentor to reigning Indian Premier League (IPL) champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).