As the Indian cricket team gears up for their white-ball series against Sri Lanka, which kicks off on July 27, a significant leadership change is making headlines. Rahul Dravid, the former head coach of the team, has conveyed an emotional farewell message to his successor, Gautam Gambhir, marking a new chapter for Indian cricket.
Dravid’s tenure as head coach concluded on a high with the Indian team’s T20 World Cup 2024 victory. Under his leadership, the team, captained by Rohit Sharma, secured a thrilling win against South Africa in the final held in Barbados. Reflecting on his coaching stint, Dravid expressed deep gratitude for the unforgettable experiences and friendships he developed during his time with the squad. His message to Gambhir highlighted the significance of the coaching role and his pride in the accomplishments achieved.
In a video message posted by the BCCI on ‘X,’ Dravid extended a warm welcome to Gambhir, describing the coaching position as “the most exciting job in the world.” He fondly remembered his own successful stint, which ended with a memorable evening in Mumbai, and wished Gambhir similar success and enriching experiences. Dravid praised Gambhir’s passion, dedication, and resilience, qualities he observed both as a teammate and during Gambhir’s time as a mentor in the Indian Premier League (IPL).
“Hello, Gautam, and welcome to the most exciting job in our world as coach of the Indian cricket team. It’s been three weeks since I wrapped up my stint with the Indian team in a way that surpassed my dreams, both in Barbados and then on that unforgettable evening in Mumbai. The memories and friendships from my time with the squad are what I will cherish the most. As you step into the role of India Coach, I hope you have similar experiences and the support of fully fit players in every squad. Good luck with that,” Dravid said.
Dravid also offered guidance, acknowledging the high expectations and intense scrutiny that come with the role. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a positive attitude and urged Gambhir to remember the passion and dedication that drive Indian cricket.
“I know how dedicated and passionate you are about Indian cricket, and I’m confident you will bring all these qualities to this new job. The expectations will be high, and the scrutiny intense, but even in challenging times, you will not be alone. From one Indian cricket coach to another, remember to take a step back, exhale, and if possible, crack a smile even in the most heated moments. It will surprise people,” Dravid advised.
Gautam Gambhir, visibly moved by Dravid’s message, responded with admiration, calling Dravid the most selfless cricketer he has ever played with. Gambhir pledged to uphold Dravid’s legacy with honesty and transparency, aiming to make the nation proud.
“Look, I don’t know how to react because this message means so much to me. It’s not just because it’s coming from the person I’m succeeding, but because it comes from someone I’ve always looked up to,” Gambhir said. “Rahul Bhai is the most selfless cricketer I’ve ever played with, and he has always done everything needed for Indian cricket.”
Moreover, as the Indian cricket team embarks on this new era under Gambhir’s leadership, fans and players alike are looking forward to what promises to be an exciting chapter in the team’s history.
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