Rahul Dravid to go on as India head coach as BCCI reports contract extension for support staff

The BCCI has announced the extension of the contract for head coach Rahul Dravid, and other members of support staff. Dravid's contract had ended following the recently concluded ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023. The BCCI participated in useful conversations with Rahul Dravid after the term of his agreement finished following the as of late closed ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2023 and collectively consented to extend the tenure," the board said in statement released on Wednesday (November 29).

BCCI also lauded VVS Laxman for his role as the head of National Cricket Academy and the stand-in coach. “Similar to their legendary on-field partnerships, Mr. Dravid and Mr. Laxman have worked closely in driving Indian Cricket forward,” said the BCCI in a statement. Jay Shah, BCCI Honorary Secretary said that he had mentioned that there is no better person than Dravid to take on the role of the Head Coach. Dravid has proven himself again with his “unparalleled commitment to excellence”. Jay Shah said that Team India’s top ranks across all formats reflects Dravid’s roadmap he had charted for the team.

Dravid said that the last two years have been thoroughly memorable. He said that the team and he have witnessed highs and lows, and the camaraderie within the group has been phenomenal. “I am genuinely proud of the culture we have set in the dressing room. It's a culture that stands resilient, whether in moments of triumph or adversity. The skills and talent that our team possesses are phenomenal, and what we've stressed is following the right process and sticking to our preparations, which has had a direct impact on the overall result,” said Dravid, further thanking BCCI and the office bearers for backing him. He said that the role demands “considerable time away from home” and lauded his family’s support and sacrifices.

Vikram Rathour (batting coach), Paras Mhambrey (bowling coach), and T Dilip (fielding coach) are the other support staff members who have received contract extensions alongside Dravid.