xtratime Logo

Xtra Time Web Desk: In an unforgettable finale, Team India head coach Rahul Dravid delivered a stirring dressing room speech after leading the team to victory in the T20 World Cup 2024. This triumph was a significant milestone as India defeated South Africa in the final match, marking the end of Dravid's coaching stint with a trophy in hand. The occasion was also a farewell for cricket legends Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Ravindra Jadeja, who announced their retirements from T20 international cricket.

After the thrilling win, Dravid's heartfelt speech was filled with pride and gratitude. Addressing the team, support staff, and everyone associated with their journey, he expressed his deep appreciation for their collective effort and commitment.

Read More: ICC T20 World Cup 2024: Suryakumar Yadav reveals Kohli leading beside from Rohit Sharma!

"I’m really short of words but all I just want to say is thank you to everyone for making me a part of what is an incredible memory. These moments will be cherished forever," Dravid said, his voice filled with emotion. He emphasized that the essence of their careers would be remembered not by the runs or wickets but by the moments like this historic victory.

Highlighting the remarkable comeback in the game, where South Africa needed 30 runs off 30 balls, Dravid praised the team’s resilience and determination. "To come back the way you did, the way you fought, the way we worked as a team – the resilience – there's been some disappointments over the years where we've come close but never crossed the line. But what this bunch has done, the sacrifices everyone has made, I think the whole country is really proud of each and every one of you."

???????????? ???????????????????????????????????????????????????? ????????????????-????????????????! ????

The sacrifices, the commitment, the comeback ????

????️ #TeamIndia Head Coach Rahul Dravid's emotional dressing room speech in Barbados ???????? #T20WorldCup pic.twitter.com/vVUMfTZWbc

— BCCI (@BCCI) July 2, 2024

Dravid also paid tribute to the sacrifices made by the players' families and coaches, acknowledging their crucial role in this success. "Think about all the sacrifices each and every one of them has made since you were kids for you to be here today. Your parents, your children, your brothers, your coaches – so many people have worked so hard with you for this moment."

In a special message to captain Rohit Sharma, Dravid expressed his gratitude for the call he received last November, urging him to continue as head coach till the World Cup. "Ro, thank you very much for making that call to me in November and asking me to continue. It’s been such a privilege and a pleasure to work with each and every one of you. This victory is about the team, about all of us."

Read More: ICC T20 World Cup 2024: Rahul Dravid recalls Rohit Sharma phone call in final dressing room speech, but why?

Concluding his speech, Dravid acknowledged the support of the GCCI and the behind-the-scenes efforts that contributed to their success. "Behind every great team, there's a successful organization. Thank you to the GCCI and everyone behind the scenes for their hard work."

With this emotional farewell, Dravid signed off, leaving behind a legacy of inspiration and pride, urging the team to cherish this moment and celebrate their hard-earned victory.