The Economic Times daily newspaper is available online now.

    Rahul Dravid Farewell video: Here's what outgoing Team India coach said to team in last dressing room meet after world cup win

    Synopsis

    Rahul Dravid bids farewell to the Indian cricket team after their T20 World Cup triumph, thanking captain Rohit Sharma for persuading him to stay as coach. India defended 176 runs against South Africa, winning by seven runs at Barbados' Kensington Oval. Dravid praised the team's resilience, acknowledging their families' sacrifices, and celebrated the achievement as a collective effort under his coaching.

    Rahul Gandhi farewellAgencies
    Rahul Gandhi farewell speech
    In a poignant farewell speech to the Indian cricket team, Rahul Dravid, outgoing head coach, recounted a touching tale of resilience and triumph. Following India's stunning victory in the T20 World Cup final against South Africa, Dravid expressed gratitude towards captain Rohit Sharma for persuading him to stay on despite initial plans to step down post the ODI World Cup defeat last year.

    The final, held at Barbados' Kensington Oval, witnessed India defending a modest 176, restricting South Africa to 169/8. Dravid, visibly moved, praised his team's spirited effort, remarking on their collective resilience.

    "I am really short of words, but all I just want to say is thank you to everyone for making me a part of what is an incredible memory," said Dravid in his emotional address. "I think all of you will remember these moments."

    Dravid's tenure saw the Indian team achieve a cherished dream of claiming a World Cup title, a feat he attributed to the relentless efforts of the players and the support staff.

    "Just like to say, Ro (Rohit), thank you so much for making that call to me in November and asking me to continue," Dravid acknowledged gratefully. "It's such a privilege and a pleasure to work with each of you."

    He further recognized the sacrifices made by players' families and the support system that enabled their success.

    "Your family is here today, enjoying it. So many of your family is back home. Just think about all the sacrifices each and every one of them has made since the time you were kids to be here in this dressing room today," Dravid acknowledged.

    The coach concluded with a heartfelt tribute to the team's unity and the supportive role played by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and its staff.

    "Let's party, let's really enjoy this," Dravid urged, celebrating the collective achievement that crowned India as T20 champions under his stewardship.

    The triumph not only underscored India's cricketing prowess but also marked a poignant moment in Dravid's coaching journey, leaving an indelible mark on Indian cricket's history.

    This emotional farewell highlighted the culmination of efforts and sacrifices behind India's T20 World Cup victory, painting a vivid picture of triumph against all odds.


    (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel)

    (Catch all the Business News, Breaking News, Budget 2024 Events and Latest News Updates on The Economic Times.)

    Subscribe to The Economic Times Prime and read the ET ePaper online.

    ...more
    The Economic Times

    Stories you might be interested in