Rahul Dravid Bids Emotional Farewell, Celebrates T20 World Cup Win With Team India

Rahul Dravid, in his heartfelt farewell speech as the head coach of the senior India men's cricket team, expressed gratitude to Rohit Sharma and the team for including him in an "incredible memory".

Dravid praised the team's remarkable comeback during the T20 World Cup 2024 final in Barbados. South Africa needed just 30 runs off 30 balls. In a video shared by BCCI on Tuesday (July 2), Dravid also urged Team India players to remember their families' sacrifices for their careers.

"Really short of words but just want to say thank you to everyone for making me a part of what is an incredible memory. I think all of you will remember this moment. It's not about the runs, it's not about the wickets, you will never remember your careers but you will remember moments like this," Dravid said.

He continued, "Let's really enjoy it, I could not be more prouder of you guys. To comeback the way you did, the way you fought, the way we worked as a team, the resilience. There have been some disappointments when we have come close and never been able to cross the line."

Dravid highlighted the collective effort and sacrifices made by everyone involved. "What this bunch of boys have done, what everyone in the support staff has done, the hard work that we put in, the sacrifices that we made. You know I think the whole country is really proud of what you have achieved. All of you should be proud," he stated.

Dravid acknowledged the contributions of family members and coaches. "Your parents, your wives, your children, your brothers, your coaches - so many people have made so many sacrifices and worked hard with you for you to enjoy this memory and moment," he said.

"I am not usually short of words but like on a day like today, for me to be just part of this, I could not be more grateful," Dravid added. He thanked everyone for their respect and kindness towards him and his coaching staff.

He also expressed his appreciation towards Rohit Sharma for encouraging him to continue as head coach after India's defeat in the final ODI World Cup 2023. "Just want to say Ro thank you very much for making that call to me in November and asking me to continue," Dravid mentioned.

'T20 World Cup Win Not an Individual Achievement'

Towards the end of his speech, Dravid emphasized that India's T20 World Cup 2024 win was a collective achievement. "It has been brilliant to know each one of you as a person. It's your moment; remember that it's not about any individual; it's about the team," he asserted.

"We won it as a team; we did everything in the last month as a team. It's about all of us. Thank you, very well done; let's party; let's really enjoy this," he concluded.