Here's why Dravid can be India's next coach

“It’s a marvellous possibility.”

Just like many Indian cricket fans out there, the prospect of Rahul Dravid coaching the national team one day is mouth-watering, if not the stuff of dreams. And why not? He certainly fits the bracket — one of the world’s best batsmen, most respected player, ultimate gentleman and now, skipper/mentor of the hugely successful Rajasthan Royals team this IPL season.

“He’s the mastermind. He’s been a revelation this season, for two main reasons — he is enjoying the T20 game and the captaincy and mentoring part.” Ayaz Memon told us on Sports Talk, before adding, “For each match it seems there’s a different game-plan which shows how much he’s thinking — reading the pitch, the batting order and the selection. Everything.”

Dravid must be getting everything right in his role as a mentor and skipper for Rajasthan to do so well with a team that looks light on paper in comparison to Chennai Super Kings or Royal Challengers Bangalore. From underdogs, he’s taken them to contenders for a second title.

So, can he be a future India coach?

“At this point in time, I can’t think of anybody better. One, he’s recently retired - which means he’s contemporary and understands the game better than most others. He’s got so much respect — from Indian cricketers right up to the junior level, from opponents, from other boards and from the ICC. And contrary to belief, he’s not conservative. He’s always thinking about how to improve the game without it losing it’s legacy value and core culture.” said Ayaz.

He also explains that Dravid’s deep study of the game and his body of work make him an ideal candidate.

The obvious question however, is whether he’d be able to handle the pressure and politics of being involved so closely with the game — again.

“He understands what works and what doesn’t. He adapts very well to his job. The issue however, is whether he’d be inclined to take up such a position.”

For the moment, Dravid has shown no inclination to take up such a role, plus there’s been no chatter about it. But, this is sport, and it thrives in wishing for the improbable.