Former India coach Rahul Dravid reveals the lowest point of his coaching career

Rahul DravidHis tenure as India coach has been marked by significant achievements and milestones. Known for his calm demeanor and strategic mind, Dravid played a key role in shaping the Indian cricket team’s approach and mindset. His focus on nurturing young talent, combined with his experience and intellectual prowess, has led India to many successes at the international stage. Under his guidance, India has seen the rise of several promising players and has been performing well across formats.

India bid for 2024 T20 World Cup under Rahul Dravid’s leadership

One of the greatest achievements of Dravid’s coaching career came in June 2024 when India won T20 World Cup. The victory was a testament to Dravid’s ability to motivate and lead his team in challenging situations. His strategic planning, player management, and calm approach under pressure were instrumental in guiding India to their first T20 World Cup title since 2007. This victory further cemented his legacy as one of the most successful and respected coaches in Indian cricket history.

Dravid reveals the lowest point of his coaching career

Despite his successful performance, Dravid has recently opened the lowest point of his coaching career. In an interview with Star Sports, Dravid recalled the disappointment of the Test series against South Africa at the beginning of his coaching position.

“If you ask me what is the lowest point, I would say the Test series in South Africa at the beginning of my career. We won the first Test match in South Africa at Centurion, then we played the second and third Test matches. We have never won a series in South Africa, as you know. It was a really big opportunity for us to win that series. Some of our senior players were absent,” Dravid shared.

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Dravid reflected on the missed opportunity when India played the Test series when the team was about to make history by winning its first series in the country. He mentioned that although they won the first Test at Centurion, India could not use the momentum in the second and third Tests.

“Rohit Sharma was injured, and we didn’t have any senior players in that series. But we were very close, and in both Tests—the second and third Tests—in the third innings, we had a big advantage. We could have put up a decent score and won the game, but South Africa played well. They chased them back in the fourth innings. So I can say that is my lowest point in my training to not be able to win that series even though I am in the lead,” Dravid has shown.

Fans will remember Dravid for his outstanding coaching career

While Dravid may feel depressed over the missed opportunities, fans and players alike will remember his tenure for his many successes and the positive impact he had on Indian cricket. His ability to build a cohesive unit, develop young talent, and lead India to great victories has left an indelible mark. Even as he acknowledged the low points, Dravid’s legacy as a coach who brought out his best players and led India to great heights remains strong.

UPDATE: PCB announces special team of match officials for home Test series against Bangladesh