Dravid Calls Time on Coaching India After T20 World Cup

India’s head coach Rahul Dravid has announced his departure after the conclusion of the ongoing T20 World Cup. This news comes after the BCCI advertised the coaching role last month, and Dravid confirmed he wouldn’t be reapplying.

Taking the reins in 2021 after Ravi Shastri’s tenure, Dravid’s reign saw India reach the pinnacle of both the World Test Championship and the 50-over World Cup finals in 2023. However, they fell short on both occasions, succumbing to Australia’s dominance.

“The scheduling demands and where I am in life right now just don’t allow me to consider reapplying,” admitted Dravid. “Don’t get me wrong, I adore this role. Coaching India has been an absolute privilege, a truly special job.”

While silverware eluded them in those marquee finals, Dravid’s tenure also included a T20 World Cup semi-final appearance in 2022, where England halted their progress. This lack of trophy success extends back to the 2013 Champions Trophy, leaving a major title drought for the Men in Blue.

“We can’t say we haven’t played well,” reflected Dravid. “Sure, we haven’t been able to cross that final hurdle in those knockout games, particularly the 50-over World Cup. But the hope is to continue playing good cricket, reach those positions again, and this time, convert them into victories.”

With the T20 World Cup opener against Ireland looming in New York, Dravid’s final chapter with India begins. Can he steer them to glory and finally end their wait for a T20 World Cup title, their last triumph coming in the inaugural edition back in 2007?