The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) felicitated the outgoing wall of the Indian Cricket, Rahul Dravid in a glitterati at Mumbai. The august gathering was filled with former captains and many players like Sunil Gavaskar, Bishan Singh Bedi, Kris Srikkanth, Anil Kumble, Sourav Ganguly, VVS Laxman and M S Dhoni. The event was a nostalgic moment for all involved. The former captain Rahul Dravid, the legend, retired from international cricket. Earlier last year he had announced his retirement from ODI and this year totally. BCCI president N. Srinivasan was not present at the event, but wished Dravid in a video message. BCCI secretary Sanjay Jagdale present on the occasion, paid rich tributes to Dravid.
An emotional Dravid said: "It has been a fantastic journey for me. I will miss the camaraderie and the banter in the dressing room. But I will keenly follow what looks like an exciting phase for Indian cricket." Adding, "It has been a fascinating journey for me to see where Indian cricket has reached today since I made my debut in 1996. Earlier, whenever we toured we were treated as second class citizens. We were the first to tour England in summer; we only played in smaller grounds. But in 15 years BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) have ensured that we are the big boys of world cricket. And it was possible due to the performance of the Indian team."
Some excerpts of what the cricketing legends think of this legend:
"During my captaincy you (Dravid) and John (Wright) did a lot of work behind the doors to build a strong Indian team. Your are one of the best No.3 batsman in World cricket, I have seen. You were one of the pillars through which Indian cricket went forward. You are one of the greatest batsmen not just in India but in world cricket," said Ganguly.
"It's been a great partnership with you Rahul. When we look back we can gladly say we will only remember the wonderful memories. I just spoke about the 55 catches you have taken (off my bowling),” said Anil Kumble.
"I will definitely be missing you in the dressing room. When I first met you as a 16-year-old, playing for Karnataka Under-19, I was impressed with your passion for the game and your style. We then went on to play for India and I cherish our relationship that blossomed over the years," said Laxman.
"As cricketers, we spend a lot of time out. Rahul started early. I think his parents and wife will enjoy his company more now. As for the Indian team, his legacy will continue for us. I wish Rahul all the best. I hope he continues to interact with young cricketers coming into NCA," Dhoni said. (With inputs from internet- AarKay)
