Rahul Dravid Profile
by CricketArchive
DateLine: 19th February 2007
Rahul Dravid is arguably the most invaluable and selfless
batsman in the history of Indian cricket. Whether opting to open the
batting in the interests of the team, in going in at No 3 or No 6
depending on the situation, in willing to keep wickets to restore the
teams balance in the shorter version of the game he has shown he is
a team man to the core. He has readily altered his approach so that
even a supreme technician like him could prove to be successful in
slam-bang cricket. The sobriquet The Wall is pointedly accurate as
it simply but aptly conveys the image of a man who does not sell his
wicket cheaply. Left to him, he would not like to sell his wicket at
all. Dravid has been playing the crisis man role for over ten years now
and over the last decade has come to be recognized as among the
worlds leading batsmen. Selection to the ICC World XI in 2005 was
confirmation of this. The figures associated with Dravid are of the eye
rubbing variety. But besides the statistics two other factors have
attracted even more notice. One is his batting approach based on a
classically orthodox style complete with chiseled strokes, perfect
defence, unruffled temperament, monk-like concentration, utmost
dedication and fierce determination. The other is his ability to shape
an Indian victory or when the situation is hopeless to steer the team
to safety. Take any match from Kolkata 2001 to Headingley 2002, from
Adelaide 2003 to Rawalpindi 2004 and you will find Dravid in the
vanguard of innumerable Indian triumphs, Kingston 2006 being the latest
addition. He is a cricketer who blends an old-world classicism with a
new-age professionalism. Verily the sky is the limit for Dravid.
