Rahul Dravid Rejects Higher Bonus, Requests Equal Pay for Coaching Staff After T20 World Cup Victory

Rahul Dravid, Team India’s former head coach, concluded his tenure on a triumphant note as Rohit Sharma and the Indian cricket team clinched the 2024 T20 World Cup on June 29. In recognition of their outstanding performance, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced a substantial cash reward of INR 125 crore for the team. Each member of the main squad, along with Dravid, was allotted INR 5 crore.

In a move characteristic of his modesty and team spirit, Rahul Dravid requested the BCCI to grant him the same bonus amount as the rest of the core coaching staff, which includes batting coach Vikram Rathour, bowling coach Paras Mhambrey, and fielding coach T. Dilip. According to the BCCI’s initial plan, these coaches were each set to receive INR 2.5 crore.

A BCCI source revealed to the Hindustan Times, “Rahul wanted the same bonus money (₹2.5 crore) as the rest of his support staff (bowling coach Paras Mhambrey, fielding coach T Dilip, and batting coach Vikram Rathour). We respect his sentiments.”

In addition, the support staff, comprising throwdown specialists, strength and conditioning coaches, and physiotherapists, will receive INR 2 crore each, recognizing their invaluable contributions to the team’s success.

Dravid’s request for equitable distribution of rewards is not unprecedented. During his tenure as the U-19 coach, following India’s victory in the 2018 U-19 World Cup in New Zealand, Dravid similarly requested a uniform reward distribution. Initially, the BCCI proposed INR 50 lakh for Dravid and INR 20 lakh for the other coaching staff and players. However, Dravid insisted on uniformity, resulting in all coaching staff members, including himself, receiving INR 25 lakh each.

Dravid’s stint as the senior team head coach officially ended after the 2023 ODI World Cup. However, he extended his tenure by six months to lead the team through the 2024 T20 World Cup, showing his commitment to the team’s progress and success. Under his guidance, the team achieved significant milestones, culminating in their World Cup victory.

With Dravid stepping down, the BCCI has appointed former cricketer Gautam Gambhir as the new head coach. Gambhir, known for his aggressive playing style and tactical acumen, will take charge from the upcoming tour of Sri Lanka. The transition marks a new chapter for Team India as they build on the foundation laid by Dravid and aim for continued success on the international stage.