India’s triumph in the 2024 T20 World Cup was a fitting culmination of Dravid’s coaching journey. The final, held at Kensington Oval in Bridgetown, saw India put up a total of 176 runs thanks to Virat Kohli’s 76-run knock. The bowlers, led by Hardik Pandya’s three wickets and supported by Arshdeep Singh and Jasprit Bumrah, restricted South Africa to 169 runs, clinching a seven-run victory.

Sourav Ganguly: The Architect of India’s cricketing renaissance

Sourav Ganguly’s captaincy remains an important period in the history of Indian cricket. When the Indian cricket was struggling with match-fixing scandal, Ganguly was the one who took it out of the darkest times. He made everyone believe that India could compete at the biggest stage against the mighty rivals. The perfect balance between young blood and experience in his era saw India rule the world cricket.

See also: Virat Kohli retires from T20I cricket after winning T20 World Cup 2024 final

The trinity of Ganguly, his vice-captain Rahul Dravid, and the GOAT Sachin Tendulkar carried the Indian cricket for generations. Tendulkar won the much-deserving World Cup in 2011 while Dravid finally got the chance to win the T20 World Cup as coach. Ganguly is the one from the holy trinity to not have any ICC trophy to his name.

Ganguly congratulate team India for the T20 WC 2024 win against South Africa

Convincing Dravid to Coach

One of Ganguly’s notable decisions as BCCI president was convincing Rahul Dravid to take over as head coach after Ravi Shastri stepped down post the T20 World Cup in UAE in 2021.

“I’m not surprised that they have shown faith in Dravid. When I was president of the Board, we convinced him to do this job. And I’m so happy to see yesterday that his tenure has been extended,” Ganguly told reporters when Dravid’s tenure was extended by six months this year in January.

Transition to administration

After retiring from international cricket, Ganguly transitioned to administration, eventually becoming the president of the BCCI. In this role, he continued to influence Indian cricket, making significant decisions and supporting the development of the sport at all levels.

Virat Kohli’s heroics and retirement

Virat Kohli’s performance in the final was a testament to his resilience and skill. His 76 runs off 59 balls were crucial in setting a competitive total. Following the victory, Kohli announced his retirement from T20 cricket, ending his T20 career on a high note and leaving a legacy as one of India’s greatest cricketers.

The Supporting cast

The final was not just about the stars. Axar Patel’s 47 off 31 deliveries and Shivam Dube’s 27 runs were critical in boosting India’s total. In the bowling department, Suryakumar Yadav’s stunning catch near the ropes to dismiss David Miller was a game-changer, and Jasprit Bumrah’s disciplined bowling in the final overs sealed the win.

India’s victory and celebration

India’s victory in the T20 World Cup was a moment of immense joy and celebration. It ended an 11-year ICC trophy drought and was a testament to the team’s hard work and determination. The players, led by Ganguly’s visionary leadership as BCCI president, celebrated with enthusiasm, acknowledging the fans’ unwavering support.