One of the most respected figures in world cricket, Rahul Dravid's stature in the gentlemen's game is beyond words and his importance is weighed in no less than gold. After failing to lift the coveted world cup trophy as a player, the 45-year old completed the circle of life by getting his hands around the silverware as a 'head coach' on Saturday. Dravid's young brigade created history by beating Australia by eight wickets to lift their record fourth ICC U-19 world title at Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui.
Earlier, Dravid had missed out on the elusive World Cup trophy on two occasions - once as a player in 2003 (losing against Australia) and another as coach of the U-19 team in 2016 (losing against West Indies). Speaking after India's sensational triumph, Dravid hoped that it won't just be "one memory" that would define this talented bunch of cricketers as a bigger and more challenging journey awaits them.
"It's a memory they'll cherish for a long time and hopefully it's not a memory that defines them and they will have a lot bigger and better memories as they go on ahead in their careers," 'The Wall' said after win.
Dravid spoke about the effort that the entire batch put on for the last 14 month, which bore fruit.
"I am really proud of the boys, proud of the effort that they have put in and proud of the support staff as well. I think the effort we have put in over the last 14 months have been sensational. They really deserved this, couldn't be really happier and proud for this bunch of boys," the legendary batsman said.
He was always aware that the since this was an U-19 team, the spotlight will always be on him but as usual, he was magnanimous in praising the entire support staff comprising of fielding coach Abhay Sharma, bowling coach Paras Mhambrey to name a few.
"Coaching this team, I tend to get a lot of attention, but it is really about the quality of support staff that we have had, there have been seven or eight of us, who have been together for the last 14 months. The effort they put in was incredible," he said.
"I am proud to be a part of their (support staff) team and see it as that. We try and do what's best for the kids and hopefully they can put in the performances on the field and they have certainly done that in this tournament."
And as expected, Twitter can't keep calm and is showering all the love for Dravid and the team.
Cometh the hour, Cometh the man!
