Indian cricket's coaching maestro, Rahul Dravid, chose to keep a tight lid on the duration of his extended role as the head coach of the Indian team. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) recently granted an extension to Dravid and the support staff, ushering in a new chapter for Team India.
During a brief interaction with reporters in Delhi, where he, alongside BCCI chairman Ajit Agarkar, was finalising India's squads for the upcoming T20I, ODI, and Test series against South Africa, Dravid maintained a sense of mystery regarding the tenure of his renewed contract. Despite confirming his continuation as Team India's head coach, the exact duration remains undisclosed.
Addressing the media, Dravid clarified, "Nothing's out officially. I haven't signed anything as yet, so once I get the papers, we will discuss it."
This statement was accompanied by an air of suspense as reporters sought answers before Dravid entered his car.
Speculations suggest that Dravid might lead the team until the T20 World Cup in 2024, presenting both him and India with a third opportunity to clinch a World Cup title in as many years. Notably, India reached the semi-final of the T20 World Cup in 2022 and finished as runners-up in the 2023 ODI World Cup.
VVS Laxman is currently steering the T20I squad in a series against Australia, allowing Dravid to focus on preparations for India's upcoming tour of South Africa, commencing on December 10 with T20Is.
Following the South Africa tour, scheduled to conclude on January 7, Dravid will oversee England's visit for a five-Test series across multiple Indian cities. Subsequently, the 17th season of the IPL will provide Dravid with a break before Afghanistan's T20I series in January.
Looking ahead, the T20 World Cup in the West Indies and USA is on the horizon, scheduled from June 3 to June 30, followed by a tour to Australia at the year's end. As Test cricket takes centre stage, the decision on Dravid's tenure extension rests on his desire, despite the BCCI's eagerness for a continued partnership.