Legendary Sunil Gavaskar reckons it would be apt if Rahul Dravid is honored with Bharat Ratna for his contribution to Indian cricket. Gavaskar recalled how Dravid took India to Test victories in the West Indies and England as a skipper.

Subsequently, after taking retirement, Dravid played a key role in helping the young players rise through the ranks at the Under-19 and India-A levels. Furthermore, Dravid served as a director of the National Cricket Academy.

Dravid took the coaching reins of the Indian team in November 2021. Under his tutelage, India qualified for the semifinal of the 2022 T20 World Cup, the final of the World Test Championship 2021-23 cycle, and the final of ODI World Cup 2023.

But, India could not go all the way in all of these events however they finally crossed the line in the 2024 T20 World Cup as they remained unbeaten throughout their campaign.

Sunil Gavaskar wrote in his column for Mid Day, “It would be apt if the Government of India honours him with the Bharat Ratna, for that’s what he has truly been. Great player and captain of the country with famous away series wins in the West Indies when wins there really meant something and also win in England being only among the three Indian captains to have won a Test match series there, a wonderful talent groomer in his earlier role of the chairman of the National Cricket Academy and then as coach of the senior team.”

Gavaskar added that Dravid’s achievements have given joy across all party lines and he deserves the biggest honor in the country.

“Dravid’s achievements have given joy across all party lines and across caste, creed, communities and brought untold happiness to the whole country. Surely, that deserves the highest accolade the country can give. C’mon everybody, please join me in asking the Government to recognise one of the greatest sons of India. Bharat Ratna, Rahul Sharad Dravid. Sounds terrific, doesn’t it?” Gavaskar added in his column.

Among sportsmen, only Sachin Tendulkar has been conferred with Bharat Ratna.