Watch: Dravid recalls his Scotland stint during speech to Canada stars

Florida,UPDATED: Jun 16, 2024 02:01 IST

India head coach Rahul Dravid lapped up the opportunity to motivate the Canada players when he addressed their dressing room after their Group A game of T20 World Cup 2024 was washed out due to a wet outfield at Lauderhill Florida. Dravid said it's not easy being an associate nation and lauded the Canada players and support staff members for being an inspiration to future cricketers in their country.

The former India captain recalled his stint as a foreign professional player in Scotland in 2003 to shed light on the difficulties of being an associate nation. Dravid played 11 one-day games for Scotland in their national cricket league and a tour game against a visiting Pakistan team in 2003, right after the ODI World Cup.

Also Read: India top Group A after washout in Florida

"Thanks a lot. Want to acknowledge and appreciate the fantastic contribution that you have made to this tournament. I think all of us recognise the struggles and the challenges that you all have to go through to be able to play this sport," Rahul Dravid said in his dressing room speech to Canada players in Florida.

"It's not easy. I understand that having actually played as a cricketer in Scotland way back, I think, in 2003.

'So I know that the struggle is for an associate country. But so you guys are honestly are a great inspiration for all of us to show that we love the game truly. The kind of sacrifices you guys are willing to make to play this tournament.

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"All I will say is that keep taking It forward. I am sure you guys are inspiring young boys and girls in your own countries to be able to play the sport. I think it's great for the world cricket," he added.

Dravid was also presented with a special Canada cricket team jersey that was signed by the players and the support staff of the associate nation.

India finished their campaign with 7 points in Group A, topping the table and qualifying for the Super 8. Canada finished with 3 points after a win over Test-playing Ireland.

India will next take on Afghanistan in their first of their three matches in the Super 8s in Barbados on June 20. Dravid's tenure as the head coach of the Indian cricket team will come to an end after the T20 World Cup. Dravid declined to reapply for the head coach job after the Indian cricket board (BCCI) called for applications last month.