The Indian cricket team, under the guidance of coach Rahul Dravid, enters the World Cup 2023 semi-finals with an impressive unbeaten record in the group stage. Despite their excellent performance, Dravid acknowledges the unpredictable nature of cricket and the challenges posed by the upcoming knockout match against the Netherlands.
In response to questions about the semi-final, Dravid emphasised the importance of maintaining authenticity in acknowledging the significance of the game. While recognizing the pressure associated with a knockout match, he asserted that the team' remain unchanged. Dravid credits the team's ability to handle pressure to their consistent performance and expresses confidence in their preparation for the crucial match.
"I think it would be inauthentic to say it's just another game (the semi-final). I think it's a bit inauthentic. Yes, of course, it's a semi-final. But I think our processes are not going to change. We do recognize that it's an important game; it's a knockout game. We have to accept the fact that there will be a certain amount of pressure," Rahul Dravid told the broadcasters.
Dravid also praised Shreyas Iyer for being the backbone of the team's middle order, expressing satisfaction with his consistent performance in the latter stages of the tournament. The coach acknowledged the challenge of finding a reliable No. 4 batter in the past and commended Iyer for filling that crucial role.
"Shreyas Iyer is the backbone of our middle order, and we all know how tough it has been for us to find a good No. 4 batter for the last 10 years," Dravid said.
Speaking about the positive environment in the dressing room, Dravid explained, "I think the way we have responded to pressure so far gives us a lot of belief and a lot of confidence. I don't think we will change anything in the way we prepare or the way we train. I am really confident; just the vibe in the group and the energy in the group are really good at this point in time. All we can do is play what is in front of us. Staying in the moment. Plan well, prepare well, and play a good game of cricket."
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