
Team India’s head coach Rahul Dravid has confirmed his exit from the side as the ongoing T20 World Cup will be his last assignment. Dravid, who took charge of the Indian side in November 2021 led India to the final of the ODI World Cup and World Test Championship but will now step away from his role. Dravid will look to bow out on a high as India aim for their first T20 World Cup title in 17 years as they enter the tournament as one of the favourites.
"Every tournament is important," Dravid said. "Every game that I've coached for India has been very important for me. For me, this is no different just because it is going to be the last one that I'm in charge of. I love doing the job. I've really enjoyed coaching India, and I think it's a truly special job to do. I've enjoyed working with this team, and it's a great bunch of boys to work with.”
"Unfortunately, just the kind of schedules [that are in place in international cricket] and where I find myself in this stage in my life, I don't think I'll be able to re-apply,” Dravid added.
Dravid has enjoyed a successful stint in charge of the Indian side after taking over from Ravi Shastri in 2021. He led India to Test series wins over England while also helping them reach the semifinals of the T20 World Cup in other significant achievements. His contract came to an end at the 2023 ODI World Cup where India finished runners-up to Australia.
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However, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) decided to extend his stay at least until the T20 World Cup. However, Dravid has now stated that he won’t be reapplying for the role and will leave after the end of his current stint.
India will start their T20 World Cup campaign against Ireland on Wednesday (June 5) while they face Pakistan in their second match on June 9. All of India’s group stage matches will take place in New York and will also face Canada and co-hosts United States.