“Personally enjoyed my time with him” Rohit Sharma on Rahul Dravid’s exit as India’s head coach

Dravid had made it clear on Monday that the T20 World Cup will be his final assignment with the Indian team. A day later, Rohit got emotional while talking about his first captain in the national side.

“I tried convincing him to stay, but obviously there are a lot of things that he needs to look after as well. But yeah, I personally enjoyed my time with him. I’m sure the rest of the guys will say the same. It’s been great working with him,” said an emotional Rohit after being asked if the team had planned a farewell party for him.

Rohit and Dravid go a long way back with the former having made his India debut under the player-turned-coach in June 2007.

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“He was my first international captain when I made my debut in Ireland. Then I’ve seen him play while I was just coming into the team for test matches when he was captain. And such a big role model for all of us,” said Rohit ahead of the Indian team’s opening match in the T20 World Cup against Ireland on Wednesday.

“Growing up, we watched him play and we know what he has achieved, personally as a player and what he’s done for the team over the years. Battling out the team from difficult situations and that is what he’s known for.” said the Indian captain referring to the ‘Wall’.

Dravid took charge of the Indian team in November 2021 but during his time as the head coach, India have not been able to win any international trophy. However, according to Rohit, the coach’s contribution to the team has been immense.

“He’s shown a lot of great determination throughout his career and that is something when he came here as a coach, I wanted to learn from him.

“It’s been very fruitful. Other than the big silver (trophy), we won all the major tournaments and series. I’ve enjoyed every bit of it, working with him, deciding what direction the team needs to head,” added Rohit.

The BCCI are yet to decide Dravid’s replacement. Many names have been thrown in the mix including that of Gautam Gambhir who has even said that he would love to coach the Indian team if the opportunity arrives. However, there is still no confirmation yet.