Emotional Triumph: Dravid's T20 World Cup Victory Brings Redemption, Ashwin Reflects

Indian spin legend Ravichandran Ashwin shared an emotional moment when Rahul Dravid hugged the ICC T20 World Cup trophy after India’s hard-fought victory over South Africa. Dravid’s coaching tenure with the Indian team concluded in a dramatic win, bringing home their first major trophy in over a decade.

In an emotional moment that resonated deeply with Indian cricket fans, spin veteran Ravichandran Ashwin revealed that he truly felt the gravity of former Indian head coach Rahul Dravid's achievement when Dravid tearfully hugged the ICC T20 World Cup trophy. This touching scene marked the end of Dravid's coaching stint as he led the Men in Blue to their first major ICC trophy in 11 years with a narrow seven-run victory over South Africa on June 29.

Dravid, a legendary cricketer who never clinched a significant ICC World Cup title as a player or captain, finally found redemption in his last assignment as head coach. His success brought joy to many fans and the cricketing fraternity. In July, former opener Gautam Gambhir was appointed as his successor, set to begin his tenure with the white-ball tour to Sri Lanka starting July 27.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin recollected the moment when Virat Kohli handed the cup to Dravid, who then cried with the trophy in his hands. Ashwin praised Dravid's contributions and resilience, highlighting how he transformed the team's approach over the past few years despite facing criticism and setbacks, including the first-round exit in the 2007 50-over World Cup.

Ashwin emphasized Dravid's meticulous planning and unwavering commitment, noting, "Even when he is just sitting at home, he has been planning how to do this and that." The T20 World Cup final saw stellar performances from Virat Kohli (76) and Axar Patel (47), propelling India to a competitive total of 176/7. With a tight bowling effort from Jasprit Bumrah (2/18) and Hardik Pandya (3/20), India defended the total to secure a thrilling seven-run victory.

(With inputs from agencies.)