Team India coach Rahul Dravid has confirmed to not wanting to renew his contract as the coach following T20 World Cup 2024. According to recent developments, Gautam Gambhir is the strongest contender to succeed Dravid as coach, having expressed interest in the role. Gambhir's stocks have increased exponentially after Kolkata Knight Riders' IPL 2024 win.
Dravid took over from Ravi Shastri after India's group-stage exit from the 2021 T20 World Cup in the UAE. The former Indian captain has done a decent job, but has failed to break the Men in Blue's ICC trophy jinx so far. Hence, the 2024 T20 World Cup is his final chance.
Dravid cited the tight schedules behind not being able to re-apply for the role, stating, as quoted by ESPN Cricinfo.
"Unfortunately, just the kind of schedules [that are in place in international cricket] and where I find myself in this stage in my life, I don't think I'll be able to re-apply. Having said that, it's no different for me to be very honest. I don't see this anything particularly different or significant. From the first day I took the job, I always felt that every game was important and every game mattered, and that will not change."
"I've really enjoyed coaching India" - Rahul Dravid
When asked whether the upcoming T20 World Cup holds more importance than most, the 51-year-old denied it by claiming that he has enjoyed the job and every game carries equal significance.
"Every tournament is important. Every game that I've coached for India has been very important for me. For me, this is no different just because it is going to be the last one that I'm in charge of. I love doing the job. I've really enjoyed coaching India, and I think it's a truly special job to do. I've enjoyed working with this team, and it's a great bunch of boys to work with."
Rohit Sharma and co. will open their campaign on June 5th against Ireland.
