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| Rahul Dravid Reveals Rohit Sharma's Call Stopped Him From Quitting After ODI World Cup Final Loss |
Rahul Dravid had decided to step down as coach following India's loss to Australia in the ODI World Cup final on November 19, 2023. However, a call from captain Rohit Sharma made him reconsider his decision, leading him to stay on until the T20 World Cup.
Detailed Report
India's T20 World Cup 2024 triumph marked the end of an era, with four stalwarts, including Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Ravindra Jadeja, and coach Rahul Dravid, stepping down. Dravid has now revealed that he had planned to resign as coach after India’s defeat to Australia in the ODI World Cup final. However, a phone call from Rohit Sharma made him reconsider, and he decided to continue until the T20 World Cup. Dravid expressed his gratitude towards Rohit Sharma for this.
Dravid's Emotional Revelation
Dravid explained that had it not been for Rohit's call and his request to stay on, he wouldn't have been part of this historic win. Dravid's tenure was supposed to end after the ODI World Cup, where despite winning ten matches, India lost the final to Australia. The coaching staff was given an extension until the end of the T20 World Cup.
In a heartfelt acknowledgment, Dravid thanked Rohit during his speech in the Kensington Oval dressing room after India’s T20 World Cup victory. "Ro, thank you very much for calling me in November and asking me to continue," Dravid said in a video shared by the BCCI on Tuesday.
"If Not for Rohit's Call..."
Dravid disclosed that if Rohit had not reached out to him after the ODI World Cup final, he would have missed being part of this win. He thanked Rohit for the support and the opportunity to continue. "It's been a pleasure working with all of you, but Ro, thanks for stopping me back then. We have plenty of time to talk, we'll always discuss, we'll agree on some things, disagree on others, but thank you so much for that," Dravid said.
Dravid Praises Team India
Expressing his pride, Dravid said he was at a loss for words to describe the win and appreciated the team for their unity and performance. "I really don't have the words, but I just want to thank everyone for making me part of this memorable moment. These moments will always be remembered," Dravid said.
He commended the team for their resilience and hard work, especially after past disappointments where they came close but couldn’t clinch the victory. Dravid added, "The way you fought back, the way you struggled, the way we worked as a team, I am proud of you all. There have been some disappointments in the past few years where we came close but couldn't win. But the hard work and sacrifices we made paid off, and the whole country is proud of you."
Acknowledging Contributions
Dravid acknowledged everyone’s contribution to the victory, highlighting the sacrifices made by players' families and coaches. "Today, your parents, your wives, your children, your brothers, your coaches, so many people have made sacrifices and worked hard to make this moment memorable and enjoyable for you. I am proud to be part of this moment with you," Dravid said.
Appreciation for BCCI Officials
Dravid also praised BCCI officials and others working behind the scenes for their support. "Behind a great team, there is also a successful organization, and we must acknowledge the work of BCCI and the people behind the scenes. Every one of us comes through a system that gives us the chance to represent the country at the highest level," he concluded.
