Will Rahul Dravid get the ‘happy ending’ he deserves?

India’s quest for a world title is well on course after they dismantled defending champions England in the T20 World Cup 2024 semi-final. On a tricky pitch in Providence, Guyana, India posted a challenging total of 171 for 7, thanks to key contributions from Rohit Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav. Rohit, who scored 57 off 39 balls, took calculated risks, which paid off handsomely, while Suryakumar’s 47 provided solid support. Despite a mid-innings recovery by England‘s Adil Rashid, India’s tailenders, including Axar Patel and Hardik Pandya, managed to strike crucial boundaries in the final overs to push the score to an above-par total.

Rahul Dravid to get a fitting farewell?

Rahul Dravid‘s tenure as coach of the Indian cricket team has been a period of both rebuilding and resurgence. Appointed in 2021, Dravid focused on nurturing young talent and instilling a disciplined approach reminiscent of his playing days. Under his guidance, India achieved notable successes, including a historic Test series win in Australia and a dominant home record. Despite some challenges, such as the team’s group-stage exit in the 2022 T20 World Cup, Dravid’s steady leadership and emphasis on developing a strong bench have laid a solid foundation. A significant highlight of his tenure was leading India reaching the final in the 2023 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, held at home. His tenure has been marked by a blend of strategic acumen and a commitment to long-term growth, positioning India as a formidable force in international cricket.

Rahul Dravid has confirmed that the 2024 T20 World Cup will be his final assignment as the head coach of the Indian cricket team. Dravid, who has been pivotal in nurturing young talent and steering India to significant successes, including the 2023 ODI World Cup final, emphasized the importance of every game he has coached. Despite the challenges of playing in unfamiliar conditions in the US, Dravid remains confident in India’s preparation and adaptability. Now, he will be eyeing to finish his unfinished job. Winning the World Cup. India have been absolutely clinical this tournament. They are yet to lose a match in this World Cup. If India is able to win the final, it will be perfect farewell to the legacy of Rahul Dravid as a coach and as a player. The Players will also look to give a fitting farewell to the coach. Dravid has a last chance to get his hands on the silverware and end his tenure on a high.

In response, England’s chase faltered from the outset. Axar Patel struck immediately, dismissing England captain Jos Buttler with his first ball. Axar continued to dominate, removing key players Jonny Bairstow and Moeen Ali in successive overs, ending with figures of 3 for 23. Kuldeep Yadav then took center stage, taking 3 for 19, including the crucial wickets of Sam Curran and Harry Brook. England struggled to build partnerships, with only Harry Brook managing a score of 25. The defending champions were bowled out for a paltry 103 in 16.4 overs.

The match highlighted the tactical brilliance of India’s bowlers, particularly their spinners, who exploited the slow and low conditions expertly. Axar and Kuldeep’s performances were pivotal in restricting England and sealing a comprehensive 68-run victory for India. With this win, India moves on to the final, set to face a formidable South African team, as they seek to end their 11-year wait for a world title.

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