[Watch] Rahul Dravid's animated reaction goes viral as he lifts T20 World Cup trophy
Team India's outgoing head coach Rahul Dravid's reaction after lifting the coveted T20 World Cup trophy has gone viral. Known for his calm demeanor, the former Indian captain roared and yelled as he lifted the crown in the company of his players after India's nail-biting win in the final over South Africa on Saturday, June 29.
With 30 required for South Africa in as many deliveries to chase down the target of 177, the win predictor was well over 90%. However, the Men in Blue staged a stunning comeback, thanks to the likes of Hardik Pandya, Arshdeep Singh, and Jasprit Bumrah. With 16 required off the final over, all the Proteas could manage was eight.
Watch Dravid's animated reaction below:
It's worth remembering that it was Dravid's final day as coach as he announced his decision not to renew his contract amid the tournament. Under him, India also played the World Test Championship and 50-over World Cup finals last year, but lost both to Australia.
"This was the only thing that was missing in his cabinet" - Rohit Sharma on Rahul Dravid
At the post-match presser, Rohit Sharma was full of praise for the 51-year-old for his unparalleled contribution to Indian cricket. Sharma observed how Dravid often had to 'surpress his instincts' to be understood.
"More than any one of us, I think he deserved that trophy. What he has done for Indian cricket for the past 20-25 years, I think this was the only thing that was missing in his cabinet. I am very happy from all of us on behalf of the entire team that we could actually do this for him. You saw how proud he was and how excited he was. He's done so much for Indian cricket when he played. Over the last three years, he has worked hard with this team."
"He has had to suppress his instincts on many an occasion because it is not that easy for the boys to match his wavelength. So Rahul bhai suppressed himself."
The Men in Blue became the first side to win the T20 World Cup without losing a match.