Rahul Dravid Reflects on Carrying ODI World Cup Energy to T20 Triumph

Former India head coach Rahul Dravid emphasized the importance of retaining the energetic team atmosphere from the ODI World Cup for the T20 format, which ultimately led to India ending their drought in ICC tournaments. Dravid credited the team's preparation, planning, and camaraderie for their success.

Former India head coach Rahul Dravid asserted on Wednesday that the support staff aimed to emulate the spirited 'team atmosphere' from the 2023 ODI World Cup in the T20 format. This approach contributed to India ending a prolonged drought in ICC tournaments.

Dravid, who led India to a T20 World Cup triumph in the Americas, said, "Honestly, I didn't want to do anything different. We ran a fantastic campaign in the one-day World Cup. Everyone involved, including Rohit and the team, did a superb job." Dravid shared these thoughts at the Ceat Cricket Rating Awards.

Reflecting on the ODI final defeat against Australia, he remarked, "There was nothing more we could have done in terms of preparation, planning, or execution. We dominated ten games in a row." He added that maintaining a positive dressing room atmosphere was crucial, saying, "We needed to create the same energy and vibe and hope for a bit of luck on the day." Dravid also relished the country's passion for cricket as he traveled, calling the experience phenomenal. He acknowledged Australia's superior play in the final, stating, "They were a better team, and that can happen in sport."

(With inputs from agencies.)