Cricketing fraterniry pours wishes as Rahul Dravid celebrates his 52nd birthday
(Courtesy : ICC)
Rahul Dravid played 164 tests, 344 ODIs and one T20I for India from 1996 to 2012.
Nicknamed “The Wall,” India’s cricketing legend Rahul Dravid is celebrating his 52nd birthday on January 11, 2024.
Rahul Dravid made his international debut for India on April 3, 1996, in Singapore against Sri Lanka. Although his debut didn’t go as planned, as he was dismissed for just three runs by Muttiah Muralitharan, he then made an impact with two brilliant catches in the second innings, helping India win the low-scoring match by 12 runs.
Dravid’s test debut came against England at Lord’s on June 20, 1996. His start in the longest format was solid. Batting at No. 6, Rahul scored 95 runs off 267 balls, helping India reach 429 in the first innings and eventually secure a draw.
Dravid’s best year in test cricket came in 2002 when he scored 1,357 runs in 26 innings at an average of 59. He ended the year with five centuries, including a highest score of 189 runs.
The Karnataka batter is celebrated for his team-first approach. Dravid played in every position, from opener to No. 6, and even took on wicket-keeping duties when India lacked a specialist keeper who could fit into the team.
Dravid’s only T20I appearance came against England in 2011 at Old Trafford. Batting at No. 3, he stole the show by hitting three massive sixes in a single over.
Rahul Dravid receives birthday wishes as he turns 52
Rahul Dravid’s Indian Premier League (IPL) career spanned over seven seasons from 2008 to 2013. He played for two franchises – Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Rajasthan Royals (RR), but never won the trophy.
His numbers in the biggest T20 league includes 2174 runs in 89 games at a strike rate of 115.
Beyond his playing career, Dravid played a key role in nurturing emerging talent. He served as mentor and director for Rajasthan Royals in the IPL during 2013 and 2014 before taking on a coaching role with Delhi Daredevils. In 2019, he became the head of the National Cricket Academy (NCA).
Dravid’s most notable achievement post his playing career came in 2021 when he was appointed head coach of the Indian men’s cricket team. Dravid ended his three-year stint in 2024, handing India their first ICC title after 11 years with the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024.
The Indian team also finished as runners-up in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 during his time as India head coach. Next he will be seen coaching RR in IPL 2025.
Today as he celebrates his 52nd birthday, Rahul Dravid received wishes from across the cricket fraternity.
Here are some posts:
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