Legendary Indian batter Sunil Gavaskar has called for Rahul Dravid to be awarded the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honour, following India’s triumph in the 2024 T20 World Cup. Dravid’s tenure as head coach concluded after this historic win.
A stellar coaching era
In a column published on Sunday, Gavaskar lauded Dravid’s contributions to Indian cricket, both as a player and a coach. He highlighted Dravid’s achievements as a player, including leading India to away series victories in the West Indies and England – feats that held immense value at the time.
Praising Dravid’s role in nurturing talent, Gavaskar acknowledged his earlier work as the head of cricket at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) and his successful stint as coach of the Under-19 team that clinched the 2018 World Cup.
“It would be apt if the Government of India honours Rahul Dravid with the Bharat Ratna, for that’s what he has truly been. Great player and captain of the country with famous away series wins in the West Indies when wins there really meant something and also win in England being only among the three Indian captains to have won a Test match series there, a wonderful talent groomer in his earlier role of the chairman of the National Cricket Academy and then as coach of the senior team.
“Dravid’s achievements have given joy across all party lines and across caste, creed, communities and brought untold happiness to the whole country. Surely, that deserves the highest accolade the country can give,” wrote Gavaskar in his column for mid-day on Sunday.
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India’s rise under Dravid’s coaching
During his time as head coach of the senior team, Dravid oversaw a period of significant progress for Indian cricket. While India narrowly missed out on ultimate glory by finishing runners-up in both the 2023 World Test Championship and the 2023 Men’s ODI World Cup, they emerged victorious in the 2023 Asia Cup and culminated the era with the T20 World Cup title in 2024.
Gavaskar emphasized the unifying power of Dravid’s achievements, stating that his success transcended social and political divides to bring joy to the entire nation. He concluded by urging the government to recognize Dravid as “one of the greatest sons of India” by awarding him the Bharat Ratna.
“C’mon everybody, please join me in asking the Government to recognise one of the greatest sons of India. Bharat Ratna, Rahul Sharad Dravid. Sounds terrific, doesn’t it?” added the Little Master.
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