Hopefully, we can continue to dominate and play good cricket under Rahul Dravid: Gautam Gambhir

Rahul Dravid's contract as India's head coach expired after the ODI World Cup 2023 final. Reports suggested that Ashish Nehra was offered the role but the legendary former pacer declined. On Wednesday, November 29, it was confirmed by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) that Dravid will continue his role as India's head coach along with his support staff until at least the T20 World Cup 2024 in the West Indies and USA.

“The Board of Control for Cricket in India announces the extension of contracts for head coach Rahul Dravid and the support staff of Team India (senior men). The Board acknowledges Dravid’s instrumental role in moulding the Indian team and commends his exceptional professionalism," the governing body of Indian cricket said in a statement.

Dravid's former India teammate Gautam Gambhir was happy with the development as he opined that changing the coach and the support staff, with the T20 World Cup around the corner, would not have been ideal.

“It’s a good thing because the T20 World Cup is around the corner and you don’t want to change the entire support staff, and it is good that Rahul has accepted it. Hopefully, we can continue to dominate and play good cricket,” Gambhir was quoted as saying by News18 CricketNext.

I thank the BCCI and the office bearers for placing their trust in me: Rahul Dravid

The 50-year-old said he is proud of the culture that has been set in the Indian dressing room during his coaching tenure and thanked the BCCI for trusting and supporting him.

“I am genuinely proud of the culture we have set in the dressing room. I thank the BCCI and the office bearers for placing their trust in me, endorsing my vision, and providing support during this period," Dravid said after the contract extension.

"The demands of this role necessitate considerable time away from home, and I deeply appreciate my family's sacrifices and support. Their instrumental role behind the scenes has been invaluable. As we embrace new challenges post the World Cup, we remain committed to the pursuit of excellence. The last two years with Team India have been thoroughly memorable. Together, we have witnessed the highs and lows, and throughout this journey, the support and camaraderie within the group have been phenomenal.