Rahul Dravid, former head coach of the Indian cricket team, has defended the controversial US leg of the recent T20 World Cup, arguing that the “odd hours” and “challenging” facilities were necessary compromises to bring cricket to a wider audience.
Dravid, who led India to their first ICC title in 11 years during the tournament, said he had no problem with the 10:30 a.m. (local time) starts and the infrastructure used for the games in New York, Florida, and Texas.
“Yes, in terms of facilities, it’s challenging. But if you want to grow the sport and make it a global game, then you have to be at events like this and make compromises, even if it means playing at odd hours in conditions that might not necessarily be perfect,” Dravid said.
He added that the early start actually ensured that the game was “even-steven” for both teams, as dew becomes a factor in many day-night games.
Dravid also praised the ICC for its bold decision to bring the World Cup to the United States, saying it was a great effort to expose a new audience to the game.
“There is a huge passion for the game in the USA. It was really nice to play in the USA; some of the games were packed,” he said.
Dravid’s comments come amid criticism of the US leg of the tournament, with some arguing that the early start times and lack of top-quality facilities were unfair to the players and fans.
However, Dravid believes that the compromises made were necessary to grow the game in the United States and bring it to a wider audience.
