Dravid on 2023 WC Final Loss: We Beat Head’s Bat 15 Times
Rahul Dravid reflected on Travis Head’s counter-attacking innings in the ICC Cricket World Cup final last year, which dashed India’s hopes of winning the trophy at home. At the CEAT Cricket Awards, Dravid noted that Indian bowlers beat Head’s bat about 15 times without hitting the ball. He emphasized that while cricket is mainly a skill-based game, luck also plays a crucial role.
Dravid on Luck and Head's Knock in 2023 WC Final
Rahul Dravid recently discussed Travis Head’s pivotal innings in the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup final, which thwarted India’s bid for the trophy. Speaking at the CEAT Cricket Awards, Dravid noted that Indian bowlers beat Head’s bat around 15 times without hitting the ball. He pointed out that while cricket is primarily a game of skill, luck also plays a role.
Dravid reflected, “We beat Travis Head’s bat 15 times without him touching a single ball. Sometimes, luck is needed, despite our skill and process. It’s important to stick to the process and sometimes, a bit of fortune is needed.”
He also praised the current Indian players for upholding the legacy of past greats and achieving notable successes, including the 2011 World Cup and the 2024 T20 World Cup.
Dravid Praises Success of Indian Cricket Since 2011
Rahul Dravid reflected on the progress of Indian cricket since his departure in 2011-2012. “The success over the past 12 years in all formats has been phenomenal,” Dravid remarked.
He added, “India consistently ranks as one of the top teams, and our players’ skill and approach to the game are outstanding.”
At the 26th awards ceremony, notable cricketers and leaders were honored. Phil Salt was named Men’s T20I Batter of the Year, Tim Southee as Men’s T20I Bowler of the Year, Shreyas Iyer received the Award for Outstanding Leadership for his IPL win with Kolkata Knight Riders, and Sai Kishore was recognized as Domestic Cricketer of the Year for his impressive performances.
Kohli and Shami Win Top ODI Awards; Dravid Honored
At the recent awards ceremony, Virat Kohli was honored with the Men’s ODI Batter of the Year award, showcasing his exceptional performance in the 50-over format. Mohammad Shami earned the Men’s ODI Bowler of the Year accolade for his remarkable contributions with the ball.
In the women’s categories, Harmanpreet Kaur received the Award for Most Matches as a Captain in Women’s T20I History, highlighting her leadership and consistency. Yashashvi Jaiswal was named Men’s Test Batter of the Year, while Ravichandran Ashwin took home the Men’s Test Bowler of the Year award for his outstanding bowling skills. On the women’s side, Deepti Sharma was recognized as the Women’s Indian Bowler of the Year, and Smriti Mandhana was awarded Women’s Indian Batter of the Year for her stellar performances.
Shafali Verma was celebrated for achieving the Fastest Double Century in Women’s Test cricket. Jay Shah was acknowledged with the Award for Excellence in Sports Administration for his significant contributions to cricket. Lastly, Rahul Dravid was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award, a testament to his enduring impact and legacy in the sport.
Conclusion
The recent awards ceremony highlighted a remarkable year in cricket, celebrating the standout performances and contributions across all formats and genders. Virat Kohli and Mohammad Shami were rightfully recognized for their exceptional skills in ODI cricket, while Yashashvi Jaiswal and Ravichandran Ashwin received accolades for their excellence in Test cricket. The achievements of Harmanpreet Kaur, Deepti Sharma, and Smriti Mandhana further underscored the significant impact of Indian women cricketers, with Kaur’s leadership and Sharma and Mandhana’s performances shining brightly.
The evening also honored notable milestones and contributions beyond individual performances. Shafali Verma’s record-setting double century and Jay Shah’s excellence in sports administration were celebrated, reflecting the broader growth and development of the sport. The Lifetime Achievement Award bestowed upon Rahul Dravid was a fitting tribute to his enduring legacy and influence in cricket. Together, these awards not only recognized the individual and collective successes of the past year but also highlighted the ongoing evolution and excellence within the sport.