“He never liked to take credit,” says Paras Mhambrey, revealing Rahul Dravid’s altruistic personality

Indian cricket’s prosperous era came to an end last month when Dravid’s tenure as head coach expired. In addition to Dravid, fielding coach T Dilip was kept on by the BCCI, while batting coach Vikram Rathour and bowling coach Paras Mhambrey also ended their careers. Since then, the team has improved, winning its first match after David 4-1 against Zimbabwe.

It’s time to take stock of Rahul Dravid‘s incredible tenure as head coach as the Indian cricket team embarks on a new chapter under Gautam Gambhir’s leadership. Recognised for his devotion and modesty, Dravid’s style of teaching has had a significant impact on Indian cricket, culminating in a T20 World Cup victory before to his retirement.

Mhambrey provided insight into Dravid’s coaching philosophy. The two collaborated extensively for almost ten years in a variety of Indian cricket setups.

“I have a lengthy history with Rahul. He and I collaborated on India A, U19s, NCA, and ultimately Team India. That equates to nine years of contact and comprehension of the objectives and needs. In an interview with Hindustan Times, Mhambrey said, “I knew what Rahul wanted.”

Rahul was never in the lead as a coach—he was always at the rear: Paras Mhambrey

Mhambrey also highlighted Dravid’s unselfishness, saying that he put the team before himself at all times, never claimed credit, and always concentrated on the players.

Rahul was constantly behind the players as a coach; he was never in the lead. That says a lot about the person in question. All eyes were on the players. Never mind about him; it’s all about the players. He was never one to accept credit. He’s constantly in the background. A legendary game. However, it’s incredible to be able to say, “Okay, I’m going to step back and let the captain and the team take the lead,” he continued.

Another important factor in India’s victory was the partnership between captain Rohit Sharma and captain Dravid. Mhambrey emphasised how crucial it was that they align, pointing out that Rohit participated actively in team meetings and conversations. This collaborative approach went beyond official settings; team ties were strengthened and trust was developed through informal chats over meals.

“I’ve worked with Rohit as a member of the MI team. I’ve had a lot of interaction. Having your captain on the same page is crucial. He put a lot of effort into this team. He showed up to every meeting. In the general team meetings and during those conversations over breakfast, there was a lot of discussion. Vicky and Rahul used to go out to eat for dinner,” he continued.

The former bowling coach continued by saying that the informal get-togethers and dinners would foster strong relationships amongst them, which would ultimately benefit the team.

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“Rohit would chime in to strike up a casual discussion. All of this does is establish bonds of trust with each person. That’s what happened down there. Their relationship extends beyond the field and continues on it as well. That was a very kind statement from Rohit, who called Dravid his work wife. thus you are aware of the influence Rahul has had on him,” he said in closing.