Tried to convince Dravid to stay on as coach: Rohit Sharma

Indian captain Rohit Sharma revealed he tried to convince Rahul Dravid to continue as head coach but it was to no avail. Dravid has confirmed that the ongoing T20 World Cup will be his last assignment as the chief coach given the hectic schedule.

Under Dravid’s tutelage, India won 14 of the 17 bilateral T20I series, including in England and New Zealand. During his tenure, India also won 10 of the 14 ODI series and 6 of the 8 Test series.

Dravid took over the coaching reins from Ravi Shastri in November 2021 after the conclusion of the T20 World Cup. Under his coaching stint, the Rohit Sharma-led team qualified for the semifinals of the T20 World Cup 2022, the ICC World Test Championship final, and the ODI World Cup final in home conditions. 

“I tried convincing him to stay but I think there are a lot of things that he needs to look after. I personally enjoyed my time with him. I’m sure the rest of the guys will say the same. It’s been great working with him and I hope I’m not going to say anything (more),” Rohit said emotionally in the press conference as quoted by ICC.

Rohit recalled how he shares a special bond with Rahul Dravid and lauded the current coach for his immense contribution.

“Look, my equation with him goes a long way, a long way back from the time he came to do this job. Actually he was my first international captain when I made my debut in Ireland,” Rohit said.

Rohit, who made his debut under the leadership of Rahul Dravid, said the former Indian captain has been a perfect role model for him over the years.

“And such a big role model for all of us growing up. We watched him play and we know what he’s achieved personally as a player and also what he’s done for the team over the years. Battling out the team from difficult situations. That is what he is known for. He’s shown a lot of determination throughout his career. And that is something that when he came here as a coach, you know, I wanted to learn from him. And it’s been very fruitful. Other than the big silverware (the World Cup). I think we won all the major tournaments and series.”

Would the team want to win the World Cup for Dravid? Rohit stopped short of saying that. “I don’t want to say anything more.”

India will begin their T20 World Cup campaign against Ireland on June 5th.