In an engaging and light-hearted interaction, former head coach of the Indian cricket team Rahul Dravid shared his thoughts about India’s plans for the 2028 Olympics with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Delhi on Thursday, July 4. This meeting came shortly after the Indian cricket team returned home, basking in the glory of their T20 World Cup 2024 victory. The atmosphere during this interaction was filled with joy as the team shared their experiences and celebrated their success.
For Rahul Dravid, the T20 World Cup 2024 triumph was particularly special. It marked his first ICC trophy as either a player or a coach, a notable end to his stint as the head coach. When PM Modi inquired about Dravid’s insights regarding India’s future in cricket, particularly with an eye on the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics where cricket is slated to be included, Dravid’s response not only showcased his sense of humor but also brought smiles and laughter to everyone present.
Cricket’s inclusion in the 2028 Summer Olympics was a significant topic of discussion. Dravid highlighted the pride involved in having cricket represented on such a prestigious global platform. To everyone’s amusement, Dravid humorously proposed that players from the 2024 World Cup-winning squad, including “young Rohit and Virat,” would be part of the team for the 2028 Olympics. This joke was especially entertaining because both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli had recently announced their retirement from T20 Internationals just a week prior.
The playful banter and laughter in the room were further fueled when Virat Kohli responded to Dravid’s comment by folding his hands and saying “spare me now,” a gesture that resonated well with the audience. This moment captured the camaraderie and light-hearted spirit within the team and also during their interaction with the Prime Minister.
“Modiji, we cricketers didn’t get the opportunity to participate in the Olympics before,” stated Rahul Dravid. “But now, with cricket becoming a part of the Olympics, it’s a significant moment for cricketers, the nation, and the cricket board. We must perform well in the tournament. Being alongside other sportspersons and learning from them is invaluable. It’s a proud moment for cricket to be a part of the Olympics.
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Dravid also expressed his confidence in both the players and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). He believed that they would be well-prepared when the time comes. “I am confident that from this team, many players will represent India. Young players from this team like Rohit and Virat will feature. Winning a gold medal in the Olympics would be an immense matter of pride and happiness. We need to fully prepare for that.”
This historic decision to include T20 cricket in the 2028 Olympics was made during a meeting of the International Olympic Committee in Mumbai in October 2023. This move is expected to not only elevate the sport on a global stage but also bring cricket fans across the globe closer together in celebrating their passion for the game.
The Indian cricket team, following their enlightening conversation with PM Modi, then proceeded to Mumbai. Here, they received an overwhelming and unforgettable welcome from thousands of enthusiastic fans. To commemorate their victory, the BCCI organized a grand victory parade and a felicitation event at the iconic Wankhede Stadium. The event saw a massive turnout as fans flocked in large numbers, eager to be part of the historic celebrations.
Throughout the interaction and celebrations, the spirit and unity of the Indian cricket team were on full display. Their triumph in the T20 World Cup 2024 and the prospect of competing in the 2028 Olympics has ushered in a new wave of excitement and pride among fans and players alike. This joyous occasion marked a notable chapter in Indian cricket, setting the stage for future glories on an even more significant global platform.
As India gears up for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, the laughter shared between Dravid, Rohit, Virat, and PM Modi will be remembered as a moment of hope and humor, amidst the tremendous potential and expectations that lie ahead for Indian cricket.
