Rahul Dravid To Continue As Head Coach Of Indian Cricket Team With "Full Backing" Of BCCI Secretary Jay Shah

Rahul Dravid has accepted the Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) offer to extend his tenure as India's head coach. Although the duration of the extension remains unspecified, it is confirmed to extend at least until the 2024 T20 World Cup scheduled for June.

Initially appointed as head coach in November 2021 for a two-year term that concluded with the 2023 ODI World Cup, Dravid has been instrumental in India's ascent to the top of the Test, ODI, and T20I rankings.

Despite these achievements, the team fell short in ICC events, reaching the semi-finals in the 2022 T20 World Cup and finishing as runners-up in the 2023 World Test Championship and the 2023 ODI World Cup.

The BCCI's decision to extend Dravid's tenure stems from the desire for continuity in the structures he implemented over the past two years, aiming to avoid disruption under a new coach, ESPN Cric Info reported.

In a statement announcing the contract extension, Dravid expressed pride in the team's culture and emphasised the importance of following the right process for success. Grateful for the trust placed in him by the BCCI, Dravid acknowledged the sacrifices and support of his family during the demanding role.

Dravid's first assignment in his extended role is India's tour of South Africa, featuring T20Is, ODIs, and Tests from 10 December. BCCI Secretary Jay Shah affirmed the board's full backing for Dravid, acknowledging his pivotal role in India's success across formats.

The BCCI has also extended the terms for India's support staff, including Vikram Rathour (batting coach), Paras Mhambrey (bowling coach), and T Dilip (fielding coach).