SK Flashback: Rahul Dravid walks into the sunset

Fans still miss his assuring presence

Technically sound defence right from page 1 of the batting textbook

When he announced his retirement, many columnists had said that the significance of the announcement will be understood six months down the line when India play Test cricket for the first time in 16 years without “The Wall”.

Five years since that announcement, fans of the game – not just Indian fans – miss his assuring defence and steely determination. His rock solid defence did not only have a calming effect on the dressing room but also helped to soothe the nerves of millions of Indians following the game.

He did thank his fans. He said, “Finally I would like to thank the Indian cricket fan, both here and across the world. The game is lucky to have you and I have been lucky to play before you. To represent India, and thus to represent you, has been a privilege and one which I have always taken seriously.”