Kolkata: Former Indian legendary batsman Rahul Dravid’s contract as the coach of the India A and U-19 teams has been extended as the BCCI confirmed that he would continue to remain at the helm of affairs for the next two years.
The Indian board in a statement, said, “The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced today that Mr. Rahul Dravid will continue as coach for India A and U-19 teams for the next two years.”
Dravid began coaching both these sides back in 2015 and under his guidance and leadership, the youngsters have done exceptionally well.
The India A side, in his first assignment as coach won the triangular series against Australia and South Africa Down Under.
The Indian U-19 side also finished as the runners-up in the U-19 World Cup in 2016. His influence on the team has been extremely strong which has produced some really fine cricketers, who can carry the weight of the Indian team in the coming years.
CK Khanna, the acting president of the BCCI said, “Over the last two years, Rahul Dravid has been instrumental in getting young talent into the mix who have proved their worth on the big stage. We are glad to continue his services for the next two years and are sure that this is a bright sign for Indian cricket which will see many more young talents coming up in the future.”
BCCI acting secretary, Amitabh Chaudhary said, “Rahul Dravid is known for the discipline and commitment he brings to the table. He has been successful in grooming the youngsters in the last two years. I wish him all the very best for his assignments with the two teams for the next two years.”
With him continuing as the coach of the India A and U-19 teams, one thing’s for sure- the future of Indian cricket is in safe hands.
While things are pretty much settled with India’s junior teams, the race for becoming the head coach of the India’s senior team has further intensified with the inclusion of Ravi Shastri and and in all probabilities, he would take over as Kumble’s successor. Earlier, it was also learnt that the former team director has the backing of skipper Virat Kohli.