RAHUL DRAVID: “THE WALL” INSPIRATION FOR THOUSANDS OF LIVES

The Wall: Rahul Dravid needs no introduction. He has been widely recognized as one of the greatest batsmen in cricket and holds many records. Dravid has scored nearly 25,000 runs in international cricket and is widely regarded as one of the greatest batsmen in the history of cricket.. Even after retirement, Rahul continues to serve the nation and cricket. Even after retirement, Rahul continues to serve the nation and cricket. No name comes close to him for the service he is doing for the nation through cricket. He is the Director of Cricket Operations at National Cricket Academy, Bengaluru, India. He also monitors the progress of India A and India under-19 cricket teams. Under his coaching, under-19 team was runners up at 2016 u-19 Cricket World Cup and were winners at 2018 u-19 Cricket World Cup. In 2019, BCCI appointed Dravid as Head of NCA. Known for his sound batting technique. Under his coaching, under-19 team was runners up at 2016 u-19 Cricket World Cup and were winners at 2018 u-19 Cricket World Cup. In 2019, BCCI appointed Dravid as Head of NCA.

For many countless fans, Rahul is more than just a cricketer, more than an inspiration. So what makes Rahul so special that he stands out? What makes him more than just an inspiration? We'll answer these questions in the following paragraphs:

PROFESSIONAL LIFE

The dedication with which Rahul has played cricket is universally acknowledged. Rahul has been a much disciplined cricketer who followed all routines and did everything possible to be best prepared. A day before every match, Rahul would start preparing his mind for the game. He would shadow practice at odd hours on normal days, but on match days he wanted his space and preferred not be rushed into anything – be it the bus or the crease. He would meditate for 10-15 minutes on the day of the match to get into his right frame of mind. In his last years in cricket, Rahul fought hard to remain fit. Once he went on a very difficult protein diet for 3 months at a stretch, giving up rice, chapatti’s and dessert altogether. Dravid is known for his technique, and had been one of the best batsmen for the Indian cricket team. In the beginning, he was known as a defensive batsman who should be confined to Test cricket, and was dropped from the ODI squad due to a low strike rate. However, in a period of his career, he began consistently scoring runs in ODIs as well, earning him the ICC Player of the year award. His nickname of 'The Wall' in Reebok advertisements is now used as his nickname. Whenever over his career, he faced a difficult situation, he accepted it is as a challenge and focused on solving the problem. Needless to say, Rahul likes everything to be well organized and when it came to cricket, nothing, no matter how small it may be, was ever casual, unconscious or accidental.

For success in any field or career, honesty, passion, hard-work and dedication; have crucial roles to play. Rahul had boundless talent, but he stood out for his hard-work, never say die attitude and distinctively for his cool temperament against all odds. That made him Mr. Dependable and 'The Wall'. Rahul has been honored with Padma Sri and Padma Bhushan for his immense contribution to cricket, plus he holds numerous other batting records.

PERSONAL LIFE

Right after the matches, Rahul used to switch off immediately. He would rarely talk anything about cricket at home with wife and kids unless asked. His wife shares that Rahul never bothered about the contents of his luggage on match trips and was happy even if only 2 sets of clothes were packed – he would just rotate the 2 sets and never complain. He never bothered about any devices, watches, big brands and even today he continues to use that one brand of moisturizer which he has been using for over 20 years. The only thing sacred to him was his cricket gear which he was very particular about. He would immediately notice if his bat was off by a gram and used to get it fixed instantly. Among all cricketers, Rahul has been widely known to be the most humble person. His humility has today become as legendary as has been his batting records. There are so many examples cited by people whose ordinary lives have been touched by his humility. Rahul lives a simple life – drives a basic car, travels economy class, has no security or entourage accompanying him, carries his own luggage and lives life like any other ordinary Indian. He has never mistreated any fan, has always spoken with respect to people who bumped into him and is always happy to pose for selfies with fans. Brett Lee once famously said “If you can’t get along with Dravid, you’re struggling in life.”

HUMBLENESS

There are so many stories narrating his dignity and modesty, here are a few instances which touched many hearts.

Everyone remembers the saga behind the selection of the Indian Cricket team coach. But few of us know that this was offered to Rahul also, which he declined saying that he has to work with the young boys to make them better for tomorrow. In another instance, Rahul Dravid once famously rejected Bangalore University’s honorary doctorate which was supposed to be conferred upon him in an annual convocation. The reason was not arrogance but because Rahul felt he didn't deserve the honorary doctorate and would like to earn one by accomplishing some research through hard work.

CURRENT ENGAGEMENT

Currently in his role as the head coach to the young cricketers, Dravid is doing an excellent work in not only sharpening talent but also laying a strong foundation of character, discipline and humility in these youngsters which will help them succeed tomorrow. It is not surprising that the Under 19 cricket team is the best in the world today and has won the world cup for the fourth time – the only team to do so till date. Rahul may not have been a part of the Indian winning world cup team but he has made sure that the future cup belongs to his team.

Let us all take him as an inspiration and follow his foot steps to achieve something in our lives.Hope this was informational for you guys.Please comment your views.