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Xtra Time Web Desk: Rahul Dravid, the outgoing head coach of the Indian cricket team, received a hero’s welcome and a guard of honour from budding cricketers at a local cricket academy in Bengaluru. Dravid, who played a pivotal role in India's T20 World Cup victory in 2024, was jubilant as he shook hands with the young talents who lined up to honour him. The students raised their bats in admiration while the coaching staff applauded warmly, celebrating Dravid's immense contributions to Indian cricket.

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The atmosphere was electric as Dravid made his entrance as a World Cup-winning coach. His guidance and relentless zeal were crucial in India lifting the T20 World Cup, fulfilling a long-held dream for the former cricketer. Dravid, who made his international debut in 1996 and played until 2012, had experienced heartbreak as a captain in the 2007 World Cup and as a coach in the 2023 World Cup. This victory marked a triumphant conclusion to his coaching tenure.

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In a video posted by the Bengaluru cricket academy, Dravid expressed his happiness to be back on the ground, nurturing the next generation of cricketing stars. His animated celebrations during the World Cup victory, from lifting the trophy with passion to waving at the crowd during the victory parade, showcased what this achievement meant to him.

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Even the World Cup-winning captain, Rohit Sharma, paid tribute to Dravid, acknowledging his unparalleled contribution to Indian cricket over the past two decades. "Rahul Dravid, more than anyone of us, deserved the World Cup trophy. What he has done for Indian cricket for the past 20–25 years... I think this was the only thing that was left in his cabinet. Very happy from all of us, on behalf of the entire team, that we could do this for him. You saw how proud he was and how excited he was," said Rohit during the post-match press conference.

Rahul Dravid, now stepping down from his coaching duties, looks forward to shaping future talents, ensuring that Indian cricket continues to thrive. His legacy as both a player and a coach will inspire generations to come.