'Welcome to the most exciting job in our world' - Rahul Dravid 's heartfelt message for successor Gautam Gambhir

As the Indian cricket team begins a new journey under their new head coach Gautam Gambhir, former coach Rahul Dravid has passed on a heartfelt message to his successor. With the upcoming white-ball series against Sri Lanka starting on July 27, 2024, expectations are high from the new coach.

Gambhir has taken over the responsibilities from Dravid, who concluded his successful stint with a T20 World Cup 2024 triumph. The Men in Blue, led by Rohit Sharma, defeated South Africa in the final in Barbados last month, marking a glorious end to Dravid's tenure.

As Gambhir officially began his coaching duties with the team's first practice session ahead of the T20I series against Sri Lanka, Dravid had a special message to convey.

In a video posted by the BCCI on its social media handle, Dravid congratulated Gambhir on becoming the head coach of Team India. He remembered his time with the Indian team and shared unforgettable memories from India's recent T20 World Cup victory.

“Hello, Gautam and welcome to the most exciting job in our world as coach of the Indian cricket team. It's been three weeks since I ended my stint with the Indian team in a manner that was beyond my dreams, both in Barbados and then a few days later in that unforgettable evening in Mumbai. More than anything else, I will treasure the memories and friendships I made in my time with the squad. As you take over the role of India coach, it is what I wish for you as well,” Dravid said.

“I also hope that you have the availability of fully fit players in every squad. Good luck with that. I also wish you that little bit of luck as you know that all of us coaches need to make us look that little bit wiser and smarter than we actually are. As your teammate, I saw you giving it your all on the field. As your batting partner and fellow fielder I saw your resilience and your refusal to surrender,” the 51-year-old added. 

Watch the video below:

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Rahul Dravid is the most selfless cricketer I've ever actually played with: Gautam Gambhir

The former coach also prepared Gambhir for the challenges ahead. But he mentioned that though there will be immense scrutiny, the team, staff, and millions of fans will always support Indian cricket.

“As you know, the expectations will be high and the scrutiny will be intense but even the worst of times you will never be alone. You will have the support of the players, your support staff, the leaders of the past, the management and never forget for whom you play. For the fans who are very demanding but will always be behind the team," he continued.

“From one Indian cricket coach to another, one last thing! In the most heated of times, exhale. Take a step back. And even if it's difficult for you, crack a smile. Whatever else happens that will shock people. I wish you the very best Gautam and I'm sure you will take the Indian team to even greater heights,” Dravid added.

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Gambhir's reaction to the message was emotional. He expressed his deep respect for Dravid, calling him the most selfless cricketer I've ever actually played with. Gambhir acknowledged the enormity of the role.

"Look, I don't know how to react because this message means so much to me and the reason is not because it comes from the person who I have succeeded now or taking over from but from a person who I've always looked up to when I was playing. I think the most selfless cricketer I've ever actually played with is Rahul [Dravid] bhai, who has done anything and everything what Indian cricket needed of, so I think there is so much to learn from," Gambhir concluded.