Dravid to continue as India A, U-19 coach for next two years

Former Indian skipper Rahul Dravid will continue as coach for India A and U-19 teams for the next two years, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced on Friday.

Dravid was first appointed as the coach for the two teams in 2015 and under his leadership the youngsters have achieved outstanding results, at home and away.

In his first assignment as coach, the 'A' side won the triangular series in Australia which also had South Africa as the third team. He repeated that success with the Under-19 team as well, guiding them to the final of the World Cup in 2016.

In a press release, BCCI acting president CK Khanna said, "Over the last two years, Rahul Dravid has been instrumental in getting young talent into the mix who have proved their worth on the big stage."

"We are glad to continue his services for the next two years and are sure that this is a bright sign for Indian cricket which will see many more young talents coming up in the future."

Meanwhile, BCCI acting secretary, Amitabh Choudhary said, "Rahul Dravid is known for the discipline and commitment he brings to the table. He has been successful in grooming the youngsters in the last two years. I wish him all the very best for his assignments with the two teams for the next two years."

The BCCI's Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) had earlier this month agreed to offer a fresh two-year contract extension to him.

The CAC, comprising former cricketers Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly and VVS Laxman, had said that they didn't have a problem with Dravid being given an extension and that it was up to the BCCI to decide financial aspect.

India U-19 are slated to play two four-day matches and five one-day games against England U-19 in July whereas India 'A' will play a one-day tri-series involving Australia 'A' and South Africa 'A' followed by two four-day matches against the hosts beginning July 26.