As India’s T20 World Cup title win sinks in and the euphoria settle down, members of India’s triumphant campaign can now sit back and reflect on the memories and experience from that one month in the US and the Caribbean islands when the team stitched an unbeaten run of eight matches to clinch the trophy.
The Rohit Sharma-led team lifted the trophy after beating South Africa by seven runs in a thrilling final at Bridgetown, Barbados, on June 29.
One of the backroom staff members part of the journey was physio Kamlesh Jain, who has written a heartfelt note in complete awe of India captain Rohit and head coach Rahul Dravid.
“As I stand sandwiched between two of the most selfless individuals one could hope to work with, I want to pen down that their cricketing achievements — runs, catches, wickets, stumpings, leadership abilities, and skill sets — are impressive, but what truly sets them apart is their respect for everyone’s opinions and their ability to make each person feel valued,” wrote Jain in an Instagram post that has his picture with Rohit and Dravid.
“‘Team’ is at the heart of every conversation and meeting that they are involved with. These individuals have hearts of gold and a mind of wisdom and spent countless memorable hours discussing how to continually improve our team,” he added.
Jain suggested that both Rohit and Dravid always strived to achieve improvement even when the team was winning match after match at the T20 World Cup.
“Even after significant victories, their focus remains on what we could have done better,” Jain’s post further read.
He ended the note expressing his gratitude.
“Every member of our fraternity owes them immense gratitude for this triumph. Every Indian dreams of seeing their country win the prestigious ICC trophy. Personally, and on behalf of every Indian, this victory, this hard work and these memories will be cherished for years to come.
“These two legends will be forever remembered for their contributions to INDIAN CRICKET. All I can say to end this here is hats off and salute to ROHIT and RAHUL sir!” he concluded.
The T20 World Cup was the last assignment for Dravid as the team’s head coach. The BCCI have appointed Gautam Gambhir in Dravid’s place, and the former India opener will take over the reins from the tour of Sri Lanka.
Rohit too bid adieu after the final, announcing his retirement from T20 internationals.