Concluding his tenure as India's coach, Dravid described the victory as a lifetime memory and expressed gratitude to the team and support staff for making it possible.
Digital Desk: Rahul Dravid, typically known for his reserved behaviour was seen bursting his emotions out after India's T20 World Cup victory and expressed profound gratitude to his team for enabling him to experience what he had missed as a player—a triumphant moment as a world champion. While observing from the dugout, Dravid watched as Rohit Sharma led India with strategic finesse to secure a thrilling seven-run win over South Africa in the final, ending India's 11-year wait for an ICC title.
"In the past few hours, I've struggled to find adequate words. I couldn't be prouder of this team and the way we battled through tough situations," Dravid reflected after the victory.
"As a player, I never had the fortune to lift a trophy, but I always gave my best. It's part of sports," the 51-year-old added.
This triumph in the Caribbean also holds personal significance for Dravid, who, as India's captain, faced disappointment with a first-round exit in the 2007 ODI World Cup in the same region.
Despite the accolades, Dravid humbly played down his role as head coach, dismissing notions of personal redemption.
"I don't believe in redemption. I've been fortunate to coach and fortunate that this group of players made winning possible," he emphasized. "It's been a rewarding journey working with Rohit and this team. Winning this trophy is a wonderful feeling."
Concluding his tenure as India's coach, Dravid described the victory as a lifetime memory and expressed gratitude to the team and support staff for making it possible.
"I'm not focused on leaving a legacy. I'm just glad we could give our best. Working with such a professional and intelligent team has been a privilege," he remarked.
Dravid highlighted his strong rapport with Rohit Sharma as pivotal in fostering a winning environment, with Rohit dedicating the victory to him.
"Aside from cricket, I'll miss him as a person. His respect, care, commitment, and energy for the team have been exceptional," Dravid praised.
Looking forward, Dravid emphasized that the triumph was the culmination of two years of meticulous planning and hard work, not merely three weeks of exceptional cricket.
"This victory is the result of over two years of effort, not just this World Cup. Our journey started in September 2021," Dravid explained. "Today's players possess incredible talent and confidence. I'm optimistic about Indian cricket's future and believe they'll achieve more success in the years to come."
As he humorously noted the transient nature of success, Dravid expressed readiness to embrace what lies ahead.
"I'll soon be unemployed next week (laughs). Life moves on," he mused. "But Indian cricket is in good hands. I have full faith they'll continue winning trophies."
In closing, Dravid expressed confidence in the team's ability to build on their current achievements and secure more ICC trophies in the foreseeable future.
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