Rahul Dravid confirms T20 World Cup 2024 will be his last as India's head coach

The current head coach of the Indian cricket team, Rahul Dravid has confirmed that the ongoing T20 World Cup 2024 will be his last assignment. The batting legend has decided not to re-apply for the coveted position after his tenure ends in June.

Dravid's tenure as the head coach has been a rollercoaster ride, consisting of victories and disappointments. Under his guidance, the Indian team came close to lifting two major ICC trophies last year, the 2023 World Test Championship and the ODI World Cup. Notably, the T20 World Cup 2024 in the USA and West Indies, gives Dravid one final opportunity to guide the team to glory.

"Every tournament is important. Every game that I've coached for India has been very important for me. So for me this is no different just because it is going to be the last one that I'm in charge of," Dravid was quoted as saying by Times of India.

Also read: Brian Lara advises Rahul Dravid to prepare Rohit & Co for T20 World Cup

It'll be my last one but no different for me to be very honest: Rahul Dravid

The 51-year-old's decision not to extend his contract surprises many, given his stellar record as a player and his passion for the game. However, the demanding schedules and personal considerations have influenced his decision. 

"I love doing the job. I've really enjoyed coaching India and I think it's a truly special job to do. I enjoyed working with this team and it's a great bunch of boys to work with but yeah but just considering you know unfortunately the just the kind of schedules and where I find myself in the stage in my life I don't think I'll be able to reapply," he added.

"So yeah, obviously it'll be my last one but having said that it's no different for me to be very honest. From the first day I took the job, I always felt that every game was important and every game mattered and that will not change," Dravid concluded.

Also read: BCCI in talks with Gautam Gambhir for India head coach role

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had recently advertised for the head coach position, and Dravid's former teammate, Gautam Gambhir, is considered the frontrunner to succeed him. Gambhir, who has expressed interest in the role, brings a wealth of experience. A 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup-winning team member, lifting two IPL trophies as captain and a successful mentor for the Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL.

"I would love to coach the Indian team. There is no bigger honour than coaching your national team. You are representing 140 crore Indians and those across the globe as well," Gambhir said at an Abu Dhabi event.