U-19 coach Rahul Dravid concerned over unequal distribution of cash prize by BCCI
India U-19 coach Rahul Dravid has expressed concern over the unfair compensation being given to the players and the support staff of the title-winning team. After being bestowed with a reward of Rs 50 lakh, Dravid feels that the backroom staff and players should have also been equally compensated.
Indian colts did a brilliant job at the U-19 World Cup where they remained unbeaten throughout the campaign. After defeating the likes of Australia, Papua New Guinea and Zimbabwe in the group stages, the side went on to beat Bangladesh and Pakistan with equal ease before overcoming Australia once again in the final.
Head coach Rahul Dravid drew praise from all over the cricketing world after he guided the young group to World Cup glory. As the fans rejoiced, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) was quick to announce a cash reward of Rs.50 lakh for the head coach. The board also gave Rs. 30 lakhs to the rest of the players and announced Rs 20 lakhs as an award for the support staff.
"The Supreme Court-appointed Committee of Administrators (COA) on Saturday announced cash rewards for the victorious India U19 team that won the ICC U19 World Cup in New Zealand after beating Australia in the final," the BCCI announced in a statement, moments after India beat Australia by eight wickets at Tauranga in New Zealand.
However, new reports state that Dravid has questioned the disparity over the amount given to him compared to other players and the support staff. A report in The Indian Express stated that Dravid was of the opinion that there should be no inequality between the cash prizes for the team and it's support staff as everybody had put in an equal effort towards the success of the team.
Immediately after India won the final, Dravid once again highlighted the fact that even though he got more attention for the team's performance, it's the support staff which put in a lot of effort too, in order to churn out the good results. Dravidâs coaching staff in the tournament comprised of bowling coach Paras Mhambrey, fielding coach Abhay Sharma, physiotherapist Yogesh Parmar, trainer Anand Date, masseur Mangesh Gaikwad and video analyst Devraj Raut, who would end up getting 20 lakhs each.
âItâs a bit embarrassing at times because I tend to get a lot of attention and focus, but it is really about the support staff and the quality of people that weâve had. I donât want to mention names but everyone in the support staff has put in a great effort. We do the best for the kids.â Dravid had said earlier in a post-match press conference.