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India‘s thrilling T20 World Cup victory in Barbados on June 29th marked the end of a long, arduous wait for an ICC title. The win was especially sweet as it coincided with the retirement of cricketing legends Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma from the T20 format.
The nation eagerly anticipated the team’s return, but their journey home was disrupted by Hurricane Beryl. Despite the setback, the team eventually arrived in Delhi on July 4th to a hero’s welcome.
Rahul Dravid ditches luxury for comfort
In a recent interview, Star Sports network producer in their show with anchor Jatin Sapru revealed one of the most surprising anecdotes to emerge from the flight was the decision of head coach Rahul Dravid to trade the comforts of business class for a snooze in the economy section. It seems the rigours of the tournament and the excitement of victory had caught up with the usually composed coach, prompting him to seek a quieter environment for some much-needed rest.
“On this flight, Barbados to Delhi, I think hardly anyone slept for more than six hours. That would have been the maximum. At no point was anyone quiet. Everyone was mingling around. Players came to meet the members of the press and few others. Star Sports engineers were also part of the flight because theirs was cancelled and they were also accommodated. But there was a lot of interaction. Rohit Sharma came several times. I believe at one moment, Rahul Dravid came up to the economy section to figure out if there was a 4-seater because he wanted to sleep. He came there from the business class and slept there for some time,” said the producer of Star Sports Network
The revelation paints a picture of Dravid as a man who prioritizes comfort and functionality over status, a trait that has undoubtedly contributed to his respected position within the team. It also highlights the informal and relaxed atmosphere that prevailed on the flight, where even the most senior members of the team were not averse to unconventional arrangements.
Also READ: Rahul Dravid highlights Manu Bhaker’s incredible journey to Paris Olympics bronze
Rohit Sharma’s playful side
Another intriguing detail that emerged from the flight was the behaviour of Indian captain Rohit. Known for his calm demeanour on the field, the skipper apparently displayed a more animated side during the journey. A source revealed that Rohit was heard “scolding” someone, although it was quickly clarified that the rebuke was delivered in jest.
“I remember I was sleeping, and I could suddenly hear Rohit scolding somebody. I saw and he was standing right there. But Rohit, in his style, was scolding jokingly. After that, Hardik came, Rishabh came, and they were all having discussions with the media,” the producer added.
The incident offers a rare glimpse into the camaraderie among the team members, suggesting a light-hearted and jovial atmosphere off the field. It also humanizes Rohit, portraying him as a more approachable and relatable figure than his often-serious public image might suggest.
A restless flight
The overall mood on the flight was one of excitement and celebration but also exhaustion. The long journey, combined with the adrenaline rush of the victory, meant that most passengers, including the players, struggled to get adequate sleep. In fact, it was reported that hardly anyone managed more than six hours of rest.
“I think hardly anyone slept for more than six hours. That would have been the maximum. At no point was anyone quiet. Everyone was mingling around. Players came to meet the members of the press and a few others,” the producer stated.
Despite the sleep deprivation, the flight served as an opportunity for team bonding and relaxation. Players mingled with each other and with the media, creating a relaxed and informal atmosphere.
A triumphant return
While the official celebrations and appearances kept the team busy, the behind-the-scenes stories from the 16-hour flight continue to captivate fans. Recent revelations about the atmosphere on board have added to the ongoing excitement surrounding India’s World Cup triumph.
As the Indian team landed in Delhi to a hero’s welcome, it was clear that the challenges of the flight were quickly forgotten amidst the euphoria of the triumph. The journey home may have been long and arduous, but it was also a memorable chapter in the team’s story.
