Port of Spain, September 8
After an illustrious career as one of the Caribbean Premier League's greatest players, Dwayne Bravo has now stepped into the dugout as head coach of the Trinbago Knight Riders (TKR).
The former player-turned-coach insists that the formula remains simple: create the right environment, keep world-class players motivated, and let them express themselves, as per a release from TKR.
"For me, it's not so much about coaching these guys; they are so talented and so experienced," Bravo said. "More than coaching, I make sure the environment is solid and healthy, give them the platform to go out and express themselves, and be honest when things go wrong. There's a reason why I decided to pick an experienced team with the likes of Colin Munro, Alex Hales, Mohammed Amir... these are world-class players. So, I just continue to encourage them and keep them hungry," he added.
Bravo's transition from player to coach has been eased by the fact that he shares the dressing room and a cricketing brainwave with some of his closest allies.
"I have played most of my cricket with these guys. We have a very similar way of thinking and how we analyse the game. We always bounce ideas off each other and then allow Nicholas Pooran to be the leader and make his own decisions. He's doing a fantastic job, and there's a reason why we handed over the leadership to him. It's from myself to (Kieron) Pollard, Pollard to Nicky P, and the baton continues," Bravo said.
Even if he is no longer on the field dazzling with bat and ball, Bravo admits there are still moments when he is itching to return as a player, especially in front of the roaring Trinidad crowd.
"I miss playing, but obviously, the fans mean the world to us. When people come here for the first time, they see how passionate we are about the sport. This is just as big as any cricket game in India, and it's good that people get to experience our culture, our people, and our passion," he concluded.
Bravo's mission for the team is clear: keep the Knight Riders hungry, keep the crowd happy, and keep the wins coming.
TKR's Men's Team has won the CPL championship 4 times in 10 years since the Knight Riders took over the franchise. They are the most successful team in the Caribbean and hold a unique feat of having won the trophy in 2020 without losing a single game in the whole tournament.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Love how he's passing the baton to younger players like Pooran. This is what true leadership looks like - building for the future while respecting the legacy. More former Indian players should take up coaching roles!
"Keep them hungry" - such a simple yet powerful mantra. No wonder TKR has been so successful. Bravo understands player psychology better than most technical coaches. Champion mindset! 💪
While I appreciate his approach, I wonder if this hands-off style would work with less experienced teams. Sometimes players need more technical guidance, not just motivation. Just my two cents.
That 2020 unbeaten season record is incredible! Shows what happens when you have the right culture. Bravo bringing that champion mentality to coaching now. Caribbean cricket in good hands 🇹🇹
His comment about Trinidad crowds being as passionate as Indian fans is so true! Been to Queen's Park Oval once - the energy is electric. West Indies cricket culture is something else entirely 🔥
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