'You have got to make those tough and difficult decisions' - Rahul Dravid speaks about difficulties in his stint as India coach

Rahul Dravid (Source: Twitter)

Ever since India lost the World Test Championship final, Rahul Dravid has been criticized for his coaching. Many have questioned his style of coaching and some fans have accused the Indian coach of biased backing.

As India is on the tour of the West Indies for their next assignment, Indian selectors have made a lot of changes to the squad, including naming Ajinkya Rahane as the vice-captain of the side again. The decision is wholeheartedly criticized by the fans.

Dravid recently appeared in a show for Cred and was interviewed. The former Indian cricketer spoke about many things in the interview, including his stint as the coach and challenges for him.

Dravid's take on coaching and potential challenges

"You care for each of those people whom you coach, on a personal level as well and you're trying to build personal connections. You want to coach them as people and not so much as cricket players. And when you do that, you want all of them to succeed. But at the same time, you've got to be realistic and realize that not all of them are going to succeed. At times you've got to make those tough and difficult decisions," said Dravid.

"Every time we pick a Playing XI, we disappoint people; there are others who are not playing. Every time we pick a 15 for a tournament, there are a lot of guys who feel they should be there. And you feel bad for them at an emotional level. But at least we all try. I don't say I am perfect at it. I'm not saying that I get it right all the time because it does affect you. That's the hardest part of coaching or leading teams – having to make those tough decisions about people you truly want to succeed in and do well. But you can only pick so many players, forced by the rule,” added Dravid.

"There is no easy answer to it. I think the thing that comes to me is at least you try to be honest about it. In your communication and dealings with players, if there is honesty and if they can think that you are doing it without any political agenda or any bias in play, then that is the best you can hope for. That must be a guiding principle.” said the former Indian captain.