Rahul Dravid

Rahul Dravid is more than a former Indian cricketer — he is a symbol of resilience, patience, and integrity. Known worldwide as “The Wall,” Rahul Dravid built a legendary cricket career with solid technique and unmatched discipline. From anchoring India’s Test team to mentoring the next generation, his influence on the sport is everlasting.

Here, you’ll find detailed information about Dravid’s cricket journey, records, stats, career milestones, and coaching achievements.

Quick Facts About Rahul Dravid

Early Life and Background

Rahul Dravid was born in Indore and raised in Bangalore. He began playing cricket at a young age and represented Karnataka in junior cricket. His composure and technique were evident even in school tournaments.

Dravid completed his graduation in commerce and juggled academics and cricket successfully. He soon became a regular for Karnataka in domestic cricket, where consistent scores pushed him into national contention.

Domestic Career

Dravid’s domestic journey began with Karnataka in the Ranji Trophy. He was a key part of the star-studded Karnataka side of the 1990s. His batting averages were always among the highest in domestic tournaments.

He also represented South Zone and played for India A, performing strongly during the 1994 tour of England — which eventually earned him a Test call-up.

International Career

Test Career

Dravid made his Test debut in 1996 at Lord’s, scoring 95 runs in tough English conditions. It was an early glimpse of what he would offer India — solidity, technique, and selflessness.

He went on to play 164 Tests, scoring over 13,000 runs. He is India’s second-highest run scorer in Tests, after Sachin Tendulkar.

Notable Test achievements:

• Most deliveries faced in Test history (31,258 balls)
• Highest number of catches by a non-wicketkeeper in Tests (210)
• 5 double centuries, including a 270 vs Pakistan

ODI Career

In ODIs, Dravid initially struggled but found his rhythm by 1999. He adapted well, often playing the sheet-anchor role. During the 1999 and 2003 World Cups, he was one of India’s top performers.

He also took on wicketkeeping duties in ODIs to balance team combinations.

T20I Career

Dravid played just one T20 International in 2011 against England, where he amusingly hit three consecutive sixes.

Rahul Dravid’s International Career Stats

Updated as of retirement in 2012

Major Records and Achievements

• Only player to score a century in all 10 Test-playing nations
• First cricketer to score 10,000+ runs in both Tests and ODIs
• Scored 4 consecutive centuries in Test cricket (2002)
• Involved in 300+ run partnerships 10 times in Tests
• Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan awardee

Notable Innings

1. 180 vs Australia (Kolkata, 2001) – In the historic partnership with VVS Laxman
2. 233 & 72 vs Australia (Adelaide, 2003)* – A match-winning effort on foreign soil
3. 270 vs Pakistan (Rawalpindi, 2004) – Epic knock in a series-decider
4. 95 on Test debut (Lord’s, 1996) – The beginning of “The Wall”
5. 145 vs Sri Lanka (1999 World Cup) – His first ODI hundred in World Cup history

Captaincy and Leadership

Rahul Dravid led India in both Tests and ODIs. As captain:

• He led India to a Test series win in England in 2007, the first in 21 years
• Under him, India chased 17 consecutive successful totals in ODIs
• He was known for his calm and tactical approach

While his captaincy tenure wasn’t as long as others, it was filled with milestones, including India’s first Test win in South Africa.

IPL Career

Rahul Dravid played in the Indian Premier League (IPL) for:

• Royal Challengers Bangalore (2008–2010)
• Rajasthan Royals (2011–2013)

He captained both franchises and helped groom many young talents like Ajinkya Rahane, Sanju Samson, and Shane Watson.

IPL Stats

Post-Retirement Career and Coaching

After retiring in 2012, Dravid transitioned into coaching and mentoring roles.

Key Roles:

Coaching Highlights:

• Led India U-19 to World Cup title in 2018
• Oversaw development of stars like Shubman Gill, Prithvi Shaw, Rishabh Pant
• Appointed India’s senior team head coach post-Ravi Shastri in 2021
• Emphasizes technical growth, mental resilience, and team culture

Personal Life and Traits

Rahul Dravid is known for his humility, discipline, and no-nonsense attitude. He has never courted controversy, making him a true ambassador of the sport.

He lives in Bengaluru with his wife Vijeta Pendharkar and their two sons. Outside cricket, he enjoys reading, golf, and contributing to educational causes.

Recent News and Updates (2024–2025)

• June 2025: Coached India in the ICC Champions Trophy
• January 2025: Extended tenure as India’s head coach till 2026
• November 2024: Oversaw India’s Test series win in Australia
• August 2024: Delivered keynote at MCC’s “Spirit of Cricket” lecture

Follow The Cricket Scores for the latest Rahul Dravid news, coaching milestones, and team India insights.

Career Timeline

Why Rahul Dravid Is a True Cricketing Icon

Rahul Dravid’s greatness lies not just in numbers, but in his values. He played the game the right way — with dignity, effort, and selflessness. As a player, he held India’s batting together. As a coach, he’s shaping India’s future.

Dravid’s influence stretches far beyond the field. He inspires generations with how he speaks, leads, and lives.

Final Thoughts

Rahul Dravid is not just a cricket legend — he’s a symbol of perseverance and class. Whether blocking bouncers at the crease or mentoring youngsters in the dressing room, he has always prioritized team above self.