Rahul Dravid to Grace India House at Paris Olympics, Discuss Cricket's Olympic Debut

Rahul Dravid to Grace India House at Paris Olympics, Discuss Cricket’s Olympic Debut

Rahul Dravid, the former head coach of the Indian cricket team, will grace the inaugural India House at the Paris Olympics. The event will feature a panel discussion titled “Cricket at the Olympics: Dawn of a New Era,” celebrating the inclusion of cricket in the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.

The panel discussion will take place on the evening of July 28 at India House, located at Parc de Lavillette. India House, the country’s first-ever dedicated space at the Olympics, is a collaborative effort between Reliance Foundation and the Indian Olympic Association.

Joining Dravid on the panel will be Geoff Allardice, CEO of the International Cricket Council, and Harsh Jain, CEO & Co-founder of Dream Sports.

Dravid, who recently led India to victory in the T20 World Cup as their coach, is widely regarded as one of the most respected and admired figures in the cricketing world.

Geoff Allardice said, as per a release by Dream Sports, “We continue to focus on the development of cricket across the world, bringing in more fans to the game, opportunities for players to compete at the highest level and now taking cricket to the Olympic stakeholders. The inclusion of cricket in the Olympics marks an important step and we look forward to Paris 2024, as an added impetus to the journey.”

Speaking about the event, Harsh Jain said, “We are very excited to have the world’s second-largest spectator sport finally included in the next Olympics. This is sure to take the Olympics’ global viewership to an all-time high and encourage more countries to develop cricket programs, promoting the sport’s growth and diversity.”

The upcoming moderated panel discussion will feature distinguished panellists who will share their insights on various aspects of cricket’s inclusion in the LA 2028 Olympics programme. The panellists will explore the potential for cricket’s growth and the opportunities it presents in both established and emerging markets.

Additionally, the discussion will focus on strategies to capitalize on the global enthusiasm of cricket fans. Cricket will be making its long-awaited return to the Olympics at the Los Angeles edition in 2028. Notably, the sport has only been featured in the Olympics once before, back in 1900.

Rahul Dravid's India Head Coach Future Uncertain as Contract Expires

Rahul Dravid’s India Head Coach Future Uncertain as Contract Expires

India’s head coach Rahul Dravid’s future with the national team remains uncertain as his contract expires in June. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has confirmed that Dravid will have to reapply for the position if he wishes to continue beyond the T20 World Cup next month. The new appointment will be for a three-year term.

Dravid’s initial two-year contract was extended along with his support staff after the 50-overs World Cup last year. However, reports suggest that Dravid is reluctant to extend his stay as head coach beyond June.

BCCI secretary Jay Shah stated that the board will invite applications for the head coach position in the coming days. He emphasized that the BCCI is seeking a long-term coach for a three-year period.

Shah also addressed the possibility of having different coaches for different formats, but noted that there is no precedent for this in Indian cricket. He added that the decision ultimately rests with the Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC).

The CAC, comprising Jatin Paranjape, Ashok Malhotra, and Sulakshana Naik, will be responsible for selecting the new head coach. Shah indicated that even a foreign coach could be considered based on the CAC’s recommendations.

Meanwhile, the BCCI is expected to fill the vacant post of one national selector soon. Shah confirmed that interviews have already taken place and an announcement will be made shortly.

Regarding the International Cricket Council (ICC) chairmanship, Shah remained non-committal on whether he would run for the position. He stated that he is focused on his role with the BCCI.

BCCI to Appoint New Team India Head Coach After Rahul Dravid's Tenure Ends

BCCI to Appoint New Team India Head Coach After Rahul Dravid’s Tenure Ends

Rahul Dravid’s tenure as Team India’s head coach is set to expire in June 2023, prompting the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to initiate the search for his successor. The appointment of the new coach will be followed by the selection of assistant coaches for batting, bowling, and fielding, as per a report by Cricbuzz.

BCCI secretary Jay Shah confirmed that Dravid’s contract ends in June and that he is eligible to reapply if he desires. The new coach’s tenure is expected to span three years. Shah emphasized that the decision regarding the nationality of the coach will be made by the Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC), highlighting the BCCI’s global outlook.

Traditionally, the BCCI has appointed a single coach for all formats of the game. However, Shah indicated that the CAC will determine whether this practice will continue or if separate coaches will be appointed for white-ball and Test cricket.

The BCCI’s decision-making process will be guided by the CAC, which will evaluate candidates and make recommendations. Shah noted that there is no precedent for such a situation in India, where a head coach’s tenure has ended and a new one has been appointed.

The BCCI’s search for a new head coach is expected to attract a wide range of candidates, both domestic and international. The successful candidate will be tasked with guiding Team India through a challenging period, including the upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup in 2023 and the ICC World Test Championship final in 2023.

Lara Advises Dravid on Balancing Superstars and Planning for T20 World Cup

Lara Advises Dravid on Balancing Superstars and Planning for T20 World Cup

India’s T20 World Cup Strategy: Balancing Superstars and Planning

Former West Indies captain Brian Lara has emphasized the importance of a tailored strategy for India’s head coach Rahul Dravid to optimize the performance of superstars Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma during the upcoming T20 World Cup in the Americas.

Lara believes that while the team’s experience is valuable, it’s crucial to avoid relying solely on individual brilliance. “Sometimes when you have a team with a lot of superstars, you forget the plan and you believe that the superstars can do it,” he said. “They just have to turn up.”

Lara cited the example of the West Indies team during the 1987 ODI World Cup, which despite being led by the legendary Sir Vivian Richards, failed to reach the semifinals. “Obviously when you have such great players, you want to stick to that experience because you feel that they can do it,” he said.

Lara advised Dravid to ensure a clear plan is in place, especially given the big names in the Indian squad. “You’ve got a lot of exciting young players coming out and you also have that sort of conundrum,” he said. “India have gone with a team that has experience. My advice, and it’s not my criticism, it’s my advice to Rahul Dravid is to make sure and have a plan.”

While acknowledging the omission of Rinku Singh as unfortunate, Lara expressed confidence in the team’s ability to win the World Cup. “The team is capable of winning the World Cup,” he said. “Yes, it’s a team that have maybe a couple of youngsters missing because of the situation. But I still believe that if they plan properly. India could win the World Cup.”

Sanju Samson's IPL Journey: A Twist of Fate and Unwavering Support

Sanju Samson’s IPL Journey: A Twist of Fate and Unwavering Support

Sanju Samson’s IPL Journey: A Tale of Fate and Determination

Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Sanju Samson’s entry into the Indian Premier League (IPL) was a serendipitous event, shaped by a fabricated tale and the unwavering support of former Indian cricketer S Sreesanth.

Samson, now the captain of the Rajasthan Royals, revealed in a viral video that Sreesanth’s chance encounter with Rahul Dravid, then captain of the Royals, played a pivotal role in his IPL debut. While playing for the Kolkata Knight Riders, Samson struggled to break into the playing XI despite being part of the squad since 2009.

During a match against the Royals, Sreesanth spotted Dravid in the hotel lobby and vouched for Samson, claiming that he had smashed six sixes in an over in a local tournament. Dravid, initially skeptical, was impressed by Samson’s potential after watching him bat in practice games.

Samson’s IPL debut with the Royals in 2013 marked the beginning of a successful journey. He has since become a mainstay in the team and has led them to several victories. His resilience and determination have been instrumental in his rise from a promising talent to a respected leader in the IPL.

Sreesanth’s endorsement and Dravid’s astute judgment played a crucial role in Samson’s IPL journey. It highlights the unpredictable nature of professional cricket and the importance of recognizing talent when it presents itself. Samson’s story serves as an inspiration for aspiring cricketers, demonstrating that with hard work and a bit of luck, anything is possible.

Rahul Dravid, Anil Kumble Cast Votes in Lok Sabha Elections

Rahul Dravid, Anil Kumble Cast Votes in Lok Sabha Elections

Former Indian cricket captain and current head coach Rahul Dravid exercised his democratic right by casting his vote in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections in Bengaluru on Friday. Dravid, known for his humility and dedication, stood in line like any other citizen before casting his ballot at a polling booth in the Malleswaram constituency.

After casting his vote, Dravid urged fellow citizens to participate in the electoral process. “Everyone must come out and vote. It is an opportunity we get in a democracy,” he said to the media. Dravid’s former teammate and legendary spinner Anil Kumble also cast his vote in Bengaluru, emphasizing the importance of exercising one’s franchise.

Karnataka, where Dravid and Kumble reside, is voting in two phases for the Lok Sabha elections. The second phase, held on Friday, saw polling in 14 constituencies, including Udupi Chikamagalur, Hassan, Dakshina Kannada, and Bangalore South. The BJP, which won 25 out of 28 seats in Karnataka in the 2019 elections, is contesting in 25 seats this time, while its ally JDS is contesting in the remaining three.

The first phase of the seven-phased Lok Sabha election was held on April 19, with over 62% voter turnout. The third phase will take place on May 7. The Election Commission has implemented strict measures to ensure free and fair elections, including the use of electronic voting machines (EVMs) and voter-verifiable paper audit trails (VVPATs).

Dravid’s participation in the electoral process serves as an inspiration to all citizens to fulfill their democratic duty. His message of urging people to vote highlights the importance of active participation in shaping the future of the nation.

Riyan Parag's Transformation: From Social Media Star to Indian Cricket Contender

Riyan Parag’s Transformation: From Social Media Star to Indian Cricket Contender

Riyan Parag’s meteoric rise in the Indian cricket scene has been a testament to the transformative power of mentorship and self-belief. Initially known for his outspoken nature on social media, Parag’s career took a decisive turn after a pivotal conversation with Virat Kohli.

Kohli’s guidance, spanning a mere 10-15 minutes, instilled in Parag a renewed approach to the game. The young cricketer, who had previously faced criticism for his candid communication style, emerged as a formidable contender for a spot in the Indian team.

Parag’s impressive performances in the ongoing IPL season, where he ranks third in the list of highest run-scorers, are a testament to his newfound maturity. He credits Kohli’s advice for helping him overcome a challenging phase in his career.

“He gave me a good 10-15 minutes of his time and shared a few things with me, I think that really helped me,” Parag said.

Beyond Kohli, Parag has also drawn inspiration from Rahul Dravid, another cricketing legend. Dravid’s guidance extended beyond the technical aspects of the game, encompassing conduct, social media presence, and overall presentation.

Parag’s maiden IPL season in 2019 was a surreal experience, particularly his encounter with Mahendra Singh Dhoni. “Playing against CSK, going in to bat, with Dhoni behind the wicket, was a surreal moment for sure,” he recalled.

Parag’s versatility as an all-rounder has been a key factor in his success. He relishes the role of batting in the middle order, contributing with a few overs, and excelling in the field.

Currently training under Rajasthan Royals’ director of cricket Kumar Sangakkara, Parag appreciates the coach’s hands-off approach. “He lets players do everything. I know he’s got his tactics behind all the noise, but he lets his players express themselves,” Parag said.

Regarding social media criticism, Parag maintains a simple approach. “I keep it very simple. If I have an opinion on something, I share it on social media. But I am not waiting for people in my social media to have their opinions, and then going through their opinions. I share my opinion and say what I want to say, but that’s it.”

Parag’s journey serves as an inspiration for young cricketers, demonstrating the importance of mentorship, self-belief, and a willingness to learn from the best.

Rohit Sharma Debunks Rumors of T20 World Cup Meeting

Rohit Sharma Debunks Rumors of T20 World Cup Meeting

India’s cricket fraternity has been abuzz with speculation regarding a purported meeting between captain Rohit Sharma, BCCI chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar, and head coach Rahul Dravid to discuss India’s strategy for the upcoming T20 World Cup. However, Rohit Sharma has swiftly dismissed these claims as “fake” in an interview on the Club Prairie Fire podcast with Michael Vaughan and Adam Gilchrist.

“I haven’t met anyone,” Rohit clarified. “Ajit Agarkar is somewhere in Dubai playing golf and Rahul Dravid is actually watching his kids play in Bengaluru… We haven’t met, to be honest.”

Rohit emphasized the importance of relying on credible sources and cautioned against believing unverified reports. “In today’s day and age, unless you hear it from either myself or Rahul himself or Ajit himself or someone from BCCI coming and talking in front of the camera, everything is fake.”

Despite the denials, the speculation surrounding India’s T20 World Cup squad continues to intensify. One of the key talking points has been the potential inclusion of wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant, whose remarkable comeback from a car accident in December 2022 has sparked discussions about his selection.

Pant has amassed 194 runs in six matches since his return, maintaining a strike rate of 157.72. Former England pacer Stuart Broad has been a vocal advocate for his inclusion in India’s T20 World Cup squad, citing a particular shot played by Pant against Kolkata Knight Riders as evidence of his exceptional talent.

With the BCCI set to unveil India’s T20 World Cup squad in the first week of May, every IPL fixture gains heightened significance as players vie for limited spots. The tournament serves as a critical platform for players to showcase their skills and stake their claim for a place in the national team, amidst a backdrop of intense scrutiny and speculation.

Shreyas Iyer's Ranji Trophy Heroics Reignite Comeback Hopes

Shreyas Iyer’s Ranji Trophy Heroics Reignite Comeback Hopes

Shreyas Iyer’s impressive performance in the Ranji Trophy final against Vidarbha has reignited hopes of a strong comeback for the talented batter. Despite recent setbacks, including his omission from the BCCI’s central contracts list and a disappointing Ranji Trophy campaign for Mumbai, Iyer showcased his resilience and determination on Tuesday.

With Indian cricket team captain Rohit Sharma in attendance, Iyer played a crucial role in Mumbai’s innings, scoring a gritty 95 off 111 balls. His celebration, which went viral on social media, reflected his relief and satisfaction at finding form at a critical juncture.

Iyer’s performance has prompted Indian cricket team head coach Rahul Dravid to address the issue of his and Ishan Kishan’s absence from the central contracts. Dravid emphasized that both players remain in contention for selection, stating, “They are always in the mix. Everyone who is playing cricket and domestic cricket is in the mix.”

Dravid clarified that the decision-making process for central contracts lies with the BCCI and selectors, not the coaching staff. He added, “I don’t even know what the criteria is. People ask my opinion on the 15, me and Rohit pick the XI. We never discuss whether a player has a contract or not, whether he is going to be picked.”

Dravid’s comments suggest that Iyer and Kishan’s omission from the central contracts does not necessarily reflect their current form or potential. He urged them to regain fitness, perform consistently, and force the selectors to reconsider their decisions.

Iyer’s performance in the Ranji Trophy final is a testament to his ability to bounce back from adversity. With the Indian Premier League (IPL) season approaching, he will have another opportunity to showcase his skills and prove his worth to the national selectors.

Dravid Explains Kuldeep Yadav's Inclusion, Praises Young Talent

Dravid Explains Kuldeep Yadav’s Inclusion, Praises Young Talent

Indian cricket team head coach Rahul Dravid has shed light on the decision to include Kuldeep Yadav in the playing XI for the second Test against England, despite the absence of all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja. Dravid explained that the team’s focus on taking all 20 wickets prompted them to opt for a specialist spinner over an all-rounder.

“When I saw Axar batting at No. 6, I remember looking at Vikram (Rathour) and thinking, ‘Jeez, VVS (Laxman) used to walk out at that position’,” Dravid said. “With due respect to Axar, he is a lovely player, but that’s the bottom line of what me and Rohit have always spoken about. That’s what wins you Tests… being able to take 20 wickets as quickly as possible.”

Dravid praised the team’s young talent for stepping up in the absence of senior players like Virat Kohli and KL Rahul. “It does make you feel really proud and happy for the way the team’s evolved, the team’s grown and just happy for the boys,” he said.

Despite losing the first Test, India bounced back to clinch the series 4-1, showcasing the depth and resilience of the team. Dravid’s decision to prioritize wicket-taking over all-round balance proved to be a winning formula, as Kuldeep Yadav played a crucial role in the team’s success.

The inclusion of Kuldeep Yadav in the playing XI highlights the team’s commitment to attacking bowling and their belief in the importance of taking wickets. Dravid’s decision to prioritize wicket-taking over all-round balance has paid off, as India has emerged victorious in the Test series against England.

Home
Shop
Wishlist0
Back to Top

Search For Products

Product has been added to your cart