Former Indian cricket team head coach Rahul Dravid watched the Tamil Nadu Premier League 2024 (TNPL 2024) final between Dindigul Dragons and Lyca Kovai Kings at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Sunday, August 4.
The R Ashwin-led Dindigul Dragons defeated Lyca Kovai Kings by six wickets in the final of the TNPL 2024 to clinch their maiden TNPL crown on Sunday in Chennai. Dravid graced the TNPL 2024 final and spoke about a couple of interesting things on the sidelines of the high-energy title clash in Chennai.
Rahul Dravid reflects on memorable moments and looks back at the TNPL 2024 final at Chepauk Stadium
The official social media account of TNPL shared a video of Dravid interacting with a presenter on the sidelines of the final, where the 2024 T20 World Cup-winning coach expressed his joy at being back at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, a ground where he has cherished numerous cricketing moments over the years.
The former Indian coach has also reflected on his deep connection with the Chepauk Stadium, which has been the setting for many important chapters in his career. Dravid recalled his time playing league cricket at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, highlighting the joy and camaraderie he experienced during those days.
He also recalled reaching the important milestone of 10,000 runs in Test cricket at Chennai as well as some memorable Test encounters against formidable teams like Australia and England. The ground also hosted India’s crucial 2023 ODI World Cup clash against Australia. Here are the fondest memories of his career so far at the Chepauk Stadium in Chennai.
Rahul Dravid said in the TNPL video, “Playing league cricket here would be the best because I played with friends, I really enjoyed playing league cricket here and of course in some Test matches I got my 10,000th run in Test cricket here on this ground. I played some fantastic Test matches against Australia, against England. A lot of matches come to mind, winning the World Cup match against Australia, so there are a lot of things that come to mind on this ground.”
Sharing his thoughts on the TNPL, the legendary cricketer said, “These leagues like the TNPL and KPL have been fantastic as they provide a lot of great opportunities to a lot of youngsters. Look at this kind of crowd; for these youngsters to be able to play in front of this crowd, I think it’s phenomenal and it really gives them a big boost. So hats off to the TNCA for organising this and doing it in such a spectacular way, and it’s great to see some young players playing, but it’s also great to see veteran Ash (R Ashwin) still contributing and still winning matches for his team.”
Lastly, Dravid also spoke about his connection with the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA), recalling his time playing league cricket for India Cements in Chennai. He started his career at the age of 21, and spent 3-4 years in league cricket before joining the Indian cricket team.
David emphasised how playing in difficult conditions helped him grow as a cricketer and significantly influenced his development before making his international debut.
Watch Rahul Dravid’s interview here:
To the Wall that took us to the top! 🤩@TNCACricket @Sastika_R #TNPL2024 #NammaOoruAatam #NammaOoruNammaGethu pic.twitter.com/crSogHmObM
— TNPL (@TNPremierLeague) August 4, 2024
