Rahul Dravid Talks About Importance Of Cricket's Inclusion In Olympics

The announcement that cricket will be included in the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles has electrified cricket enthusiasts around the globe. Former India cricketer and T20 World Cup-winning coach Rahul Dravid shares this excitement, expressing his own enthusiasm about the sport’s Olympic debut. In a recent conversation, Dravid conveyed his genuine anticipation and thrill regarding cricket’s inclusion in the next Olympics. He highlighted the profound significance of this development, emphasizing the sport’s vast global following and the historical opportunity it represents. Although Dravid is no longer actively involved in coaching or mentoring, having stepped away from the Indian dressing room, his passion for the game remains undiminished. He reflected on the news with a sense of personal joy and described cricket’s inclusion in the Olympics as "truly phenomenal."

Dravid’s remarks underscore how significant this milestone is not only for fans but also for those who have dedicated their careers to cricket. The sport’s debut at the Olympic Games represents a major moment in cricket’s history, and Dravid’s reaction mirrors the broader excitement within the cricketing community. As a former player and coach who has witnessed the evolution of the sport, Dravid’s support further highlights the historic nature of cricket's Olympic journey and its potential to captivate a global audience.

"It always felt like cricket should be a part of this [Olympics]. It is truly a great game. It is followed by so many people around the world. It is fantastic for someone like me who is now only a fan. It is truly phenomenal," stated former India captain Rahul Dravid at India House - Celebrating India at the Paris Olympics 2024. 

Rahul Dravid also took a nostalgic trip down memory lane, reflecting on his childhood and early years. He recalled one of his earliest memories of watching American track and field star Carl Lewis excel at the Olympics, a time when television was just beginning to gain popularity in India. Dravid reminisced about how the entire nation would be glued to their TV screens, mesmerized by the feats of exceptional athletes. He noted that being part of such a grand event was a dream for many, including himself.

Dravid compared the spectacle of cricket events to the Olympics, emphasizing the unique energy and atmosphere of the latter. He observed that while cricket events, no matter how grand, are individual spectacles, the Olympic Games offer an unmatched level of excitement and collective fervor. The Olympics, with their global stage and diverse array of sports, create a distinctive atmosphere that sets them apart from other sporting events. Dravid's reflections highlight not only his deep appreciation for the Olympics but also his recognition of the special place cricket holds in the world of sports.

"If you love sport as I have, you grow up with the Olympics. My earliest memories are of Carl Lewis winning at the Olympics and television coming to India. We used to be glued to the television sets to watch these great athletes perform and play. You always wanted to be a part of a great event. You have great events in cricket but they are individual events. To be in this kind of environment, energy, and vibe is a dream come true for any sportsman," mentioned Dravid.