‘I'm not surprised’: Sourav Ganguly applauds Rahul Dravid's contract extension as India coach

Ahead of the impending tour to South Africa, former BCCI president Sourav Ganguly expressed his happiness with the decision to extend Rahul Dravid's contract as India's head coach, along with the support staff. Ganguly offered his opinions on the extension. During his time as BCCI president, Ganguly was instrumental in persuading Dravid to accept the coaching post.

3 things you need to know 

• Rahul Dravid will renew his contract as Tem India’s coach 
• Dravid’s contract expired last month after the ODI World Cup
• Rahul Dravid was appointed as India’s coach in 2021  

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Ganguly applauds BCCI's faith in Dravid: A Continuation of Success

Speaking to reporters in Kolkata, Sourav Ganguly emphasised the successes of Dravid's first term, such as India's victory in the 2023 Asia Cup and their progress to the World Cup and World Test Championship finals. The board's faith in Dravid's coaching ability is evident in the extension. He said: 

"I'm not surprised that they have shown faith in Dravid. When I was president of the Board, we convinced him to do this job. And I'm so happy to see yesterday that his tenure has been extended,"

The Indian cricket team performed admirably under Dravid's leadership, but they also had setbacks, such as a losing Test series in South Africa and lost opportunities in England. Ganguly congratulated them on their accomplishments and sent his best vibes for the future, especially with the T20I World Cup approaching.

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Dravid's Next Challenge: South Africa Tour

Ganguly emphasised Dravid's immediate responsibility, which is to lead India to a historic series victory over South Africa. India is scheduled to play Tests, ODIs, and T20s during an all-format visit. Ganguly conveyed hope by saying, 

"It was always the case, depending on whether he wanted it or not. I wish him luck for another World Cup in June. He was very close this time. They may not have won it, but they probably were the best team in the competition with the way they played. So he's got another seven months for a World Cup in the West Indies. Hopefully, at that time, he will not be runners-up, but a champion," 

The extension demonstrates the board's faith in Dravid's leadership as he continues his coaching career and their optimism for his future success.