NEW DELHI: India are set to face
South Africa
in the
T20 World Cup final
on Saturday, and veteran spinner
Ravichandran Ashwin
has emphasized the crucial role of head coach
Rahul Dravid
in the team's journey.
Ashwin credits Dravid for transforming the team's approach and contributing significantly to their success in the 2024 T20 World Cup.
Reflecting on Dravid's past experiences, Ashwin highlighted the challenges Dravid faced, including stepping down from ODI captaincy after India's early exit from the 2007 ODI World Cup.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin remarked, "I want to talk about a person who is sacred. In 2007, India got knocked out of the 50-over World Cup. Rahul Dravid was the captain at that time. He didn't captain the one-day side after that. He has been with the Indian team. If something doesn't go well, if the Indian team loses a match, immediately, they ask what Rahul Dravid is doing."
Ashwin praised Dravid's dedication and hard work over the past few years, which have significantly contributed to the team's improved performance.
He said, "I know what he has been doing with this team for the past 2-3 years. I know how balanced he has been. I know how hard he has worked to change this approach. I know what he has given each of his players. Even when he is just sitting at home, he has been planning how to do this and that."
Team India has remained unbeaten in the T20 World Cup, showcasing the team's resilience and adaptability in challenging conditions.
Ashwin acknowledged the significance of reaching the final, stating, "We all should understand. Going to the final is a very big achievement in a world tournament. Conditions have been tough. There are a lot of challenges. You won't know the challenges of the team from the outside. Even small things are a challenge."
The final against South Africa not only marks a potential end to India's title drought but also serves as Dravid's final assignment as the head coach of the Indian team.
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