Coaching young cricketers is one thing. Coaching them once they’ve matured into professionals is another. Rahul Dravid, who has mentored several Indian stars at the U-19 and NCA levels, has seen this transition firsthand.
Having worked closely with players like Riyan Parag and Yashasvi Jaiswal in their formative years, Dravid reflects on how his role has changed as they have moved up the ranks. “It’s terrific to see these youngsters grow into full-fledged professionals and even senior players within their teams,” says the former India head coach, in an exclusive chat with Sportstar.
That evolution, according to Dravid, is exactly what a junior-level coach aims for. “You want to see how the players you’ve worked with evolve — not just in their game but also as individuals.” But as players grow, so does the way a coach interacts with them.
“Naturally, the conversations you have with them now are very different from when they were 16 or 17. As a coach, you must adapt to their growth,” points out Dravid, who is now head coach of Rajasthan Royals.
At the Under-19 level, coaching is more hands-on. “You often take on a more instructional role, guiding them closely,” Dravid explains. “But at this stage, they are experienced professionals. Your role shifts from instructing to supporting.”
He likens this shift to parenting. “In some ways, it’s like raising children. When they’re young, your conversations with them are different, but as they mature, those interactions evolve. It’s no different with players.”
Ultimately, coaching is about adaptability. “You have to adapt to who you are coaching and focus on the goal you’re trying to achieve,” he concludes.
Keep an eye out for the full Rahul Dravid interview in the next edition of Sportstar for more insights on this and other key cricketing topics.