Former Indian cricket Team coach Rahul Dravid has once again displayed his strong sense of fairness by refusing a bonus significantly higher than that offered to his support staff by BCCI.
Following India’s T20 World Cup victory, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced a bonus structure. As per the plan, Rahul Dravid, alongside the Indian playing squad, was set to receive ₹5 crore, while the support staff, including bowling coach Paras Mhambrey, fielding coach T Dilip, and batting coach Vikram Rathore, were allocated ₹2.5 crore each.
However, Rahul Dravid opted to decline the additional sum. A BCCI source confirmed to Hindustan Times, “Rahul wanted the same bonus money as the rest of his support staff. We respect his sentiments.”
Not first time for Rahul Dravid
This isn’t the first time Rahul Dravid has prioritized equality over personal gain. In 2018, he displayed similar principles while coaching India’s U-19 World Cup winners.
When a bonus structure favoring him was proposed, Dravid advocated for an even distribution across the entire coaching staff.
Rahul Dravid: Leading by example
Dravid’s actions highlight his commitment to fostering a team environment built on mutual respect and appreciation. This approach has undoubtedly contributed to his successful coaching tenure, evident in India’s recent World Cup triumph.
Winning Partnership: Rohit Sharma-Rahul Dravid
The bond Rahul Dravid has established with the players extends beyond cricketing skills. His leadership style and focus on teamwork have been lauded by players like captain Rohit Sharma and senior batsman Virat Kohli.
The Wall: A coach who stays for Team
Initially slated to step down after India’s loss in the 2023 ODI World Cup final, Dravid was persuaded by Rohit Sharma to remain on board for the T20 World Cup. This decision proved to be a winning one, solidifying Dravid’s place as a coach who prioritizes the team’s success above all else.
Rahul Dravid’s act of declining the bonus not only showcases his financial modesty but also underscores his core values as a leader who believes in collective effort and rewards everyone fairly.
