Rahul Dravid's connection with the Caribbean islands has been a complex one. As a player, he excelled in Test matches there, leaving behind a legacy of impressive performances. However, the 2007 ODI World Cup under his captaincy saw a shocking group stage exit, including a loss to Bangladesh in the opening match. This disappointment overshadowed some of his batting achievements. Fast forward to the present, and the emotions couldn't be more contrasting. On June 29, as head coach, Rahul Dravid steered Team India to a historic T20 World Cup victory in Barbados, ending an 11-year wait for an ICC title. This triumph marked a perfect farewell for Dravid, as he had already announced his departure before the tournament. It even garnered him a congratulatory message from Greg Chappell, the Australian coach whose tenure in India became synonymous with the 2007 World Cup debacle.
Having overseen Dravid's captaincy stint during his time as India's coach, Greg Chappell expressed his delight at Dravid's World Cup triumph as coach
“Congratulations to India on winning the T20 World Cup. I am particularly pleased for Rahul for being part of the victory,” Chappell told mid-day.
Forged in the fires of their time working together under Chappell's coaching, the Australian acknowledged Dravid's unwavering dedication (passion) to Indian cricket. He even called it a storybook ending for the legendary Indian player.
“His passion for Indian cricket has always been plain to see, so for him to have been an integral part of the planning for this win must be particularly satisfying for him. It is a wonderful way for him to finish his time with the team,” Chappell added.
Team India enters new era after T20 World Cup win
With Rahul Dravid stepping down as coach and star players Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Ravindra Jadeja retiring from T20Is, Indian cricket is at a crossroads. The BCCI is expected to announce Dravid's successor soon, with Gautam Gambhir a potential frontrunner.
Team India will take the field next in a T20I series against Zimbabwe starting July 6th. This series marks a new chapter for the team, with only Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sanju Samson returning from the World Cup squad. Shubman Gill will lead a young Indian team, showcasing the future of the sport in the country.
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