As the sun sets on another English summer of cricket, England fans can congratulate themselves on a fine overall performance in all forms of the game. We saw, last night, the final game of the ODI series. A fine game it was, with a youngster bursting on the scene. That said, though, I wish to say 'farewell' to Rahul Dravid. Rahul Dravid made his debut in 1996 and has played a massive 344 ODIs for India. His stats by modern standards were only average (39.16 at a strike rate of 71.24) but they doesn't reflect his true worth to the team: Dravid was the Wall; when all around him crumbled, he could be relied upon to stand tall. But the main thing we have to thank him for was his contribution to cricket. If any young player wants a model for how to behave when playing cricket (or any sport for that matter) they'd do well by to follow the standard set by Rahul Dravid. This was exemplified in the game yesterday: Jonny Bairstow played a marvellous knock to see England home. The first to shake his hand was Rahul Dravid. Many reports have said that Biarstow 'spoilt' or 'soured' Dravid's last game. I don't think Dravid will see it that way: Rather, Dravid will think it enhanced it. So Farewell, Rahul Dravid; Cricket Fans salute you.
He's yet to reach 39, so don't write him off just yet, remember Brian Close played against the West Indies at 45.
I couldn't agree more duckmachine. He's been a fabulous player and servant to India and if it wasn't for being around at the same time as Tendulkar the praise for him would be far more.
In my opinion, a better test match player than sachin due to his consistency and perfect technique. will be truly missed.
