In the aftermath of India’s World Cup 2023 final loss to Australia, the curtains have fallen on Rahul Dravid’s two-year tenure as head coach. As emotions ran high following the heartbreak, Dravid, often hailed as ‘Mr Dependable,’ finds himself at a pivotal juncture, contemplating his future with the national team.
While Dravid’s contract officially concluded with the title clash defeat, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has yet to broach the subject of his potential extension. Dravid, known for his pragmatic approach, remains non-committal about his coaching future, emphasizing the need for time and reflection.
In a post-match media conference, Dravid revealed, “I haven’t thought about it. I’ve just come off a game. I had no time to think about this and no time to reflect on this. Yeah, I will when I get the time to do that.” The 50-year-old coach expressed pride in working with the players over the past two years, terming it a privilege.
Despite queries about coaching in a single format or leading the team in the upcoming T20 World Cup, Dravid maintained his focus on the recently concluded campaign. “Honestly, I haven’t thought about it. I think all our campaign, all our energies were focused on this match, focused on this tournament, and focused till here. And I haven’t actually given it any thought or I have no plans, I have had no plans of what’s going to happen in the future,” he stated.
When questioned about the next World Cup in 2027 and the potential loss for the golden generation of Indian cricketers, Dravid laughed it off, emphasizing the ample time ahead. “I’m not really thinking about 2027 and who’s going to be there and who’s not going to be there. There’s a lot of time for that. A lot of water will flow under the bridge before that. There’ll be a lot of time for that,” he remarked.
Acknowledging Rohit Sharma’s leadership, Dravid praised the skipper’s exceptional role in guiding the team. “He’s been an exceptional leader. You know, Rohit’s really led this team fantastically well. He’s certainly got the dressing room; he’s given so much of his time and energy in the dressing room to the boys.” As the cricketing world awaits Dravid’s decision, the uncertainties of the post-World Cup era loom large for Indian cricket.
