Rahul Dravid Leads India To Victory As T20 World Cup-Winning Coach

Rahul Dravid finally achieved an ICC trophy as India triumphed over South Africa in the T20 World Cup 2024 final at Kensington Oval, Barbados.

Unlike his former teammates Sachin Tendulkar and Sourav Ganguly, Dravid continued his on-field service post-retirement. While Tendulkar took on mentorship roles and Ganguly balanced mentoring with administrative duties, Dravid remained dedicated to coaching. He initially trained younger players before taking on the responsibility of coaching a team of superstars.

Winning an ICC trophy was a significant goal for Dravid, not just because India hadn't won one since 2013, but also because he never secured such silverware during his illustrious playing career. Under his captaincy, India exited the 2007 ODI World Cup in the group stage after losses to Sri Lanka and Bangladesh.

In the final against South Africa on June 29, South Africa needed only 30 runs from 30 balls with six wickets remaining. Many anticipated another disappointment for India, but fate favoured Dravid and his team. India's pacers delivered an exceptional death bowling performance, defending their target by seven runs.

Dravid was the first to celebrate when the equation came down to nine runs off one ball with Kagiso Rabada's delivery in the fifth ball of the 20th over. The 51-year-old punched the air in triumph as India clinched victory.

A Perfect Farewell

Heading into the T20 World Cup 2024, India were not favourites to win. Dravid had already missed two chances as coach to secure silverware for India. Having announced he would leave the Indian dressing room after this campaign, many hoped for a perfect farewell for him.

India's Test specialist saw India lose both the WTC and ODI World Cup finals under his guidance. Now, he will forever be known as India's T20 World Cup-winning coach.

Celebrations and Recognition

Dravid initially stood back and smiled as players lifted the trophy. Virat Kohli later brought him into active celebration by handing him his first World Cup title. With childlike enthusiasm, Dravid roared while holding the silverware. Moments later, amidst the Indian team huddle, he joined Hardik Pandya in rolling on the ground, showing a playful side seen only in CRED ads.