Before I dive into the book’s content, let me share what I used to think whenever Dravid came to bat for India. If it was a test match, I was just well out of the blue! Everything was fine because Dravid went to the crease to bat. However, if it was a one-day match, let me say that Dravid made me feel nervous at the beginning of his one-day international career. Nevertheless, as time passed and he cemented his position in the team as a proper batsman and a keeper, many (I believe) began loving him as a god-sent cricket hero for India. Hero – the term has an interesting story in Rahul Dravid’s life – awaits you!

Rahul Dravid: Timeless Steel is a meticulously curated collection of articles, essays, and interviews that paint a vivid and multifaceted portrait of one of cricket’s most revered figures, Rahul Dravid. Edited by ESPNcricinfo’s senior editor, Suresh Menon, the book is a tribute to Dravid’s illustrious career and his enduring legacy as a cricketer and a person. It is divided into five sections, each offering a distinct perspective on Dravid’s life, career, and character. The book is not just a celebration of his cricketing achievements but also an exploration of the values and principles that made him a role model both on and off the field.

Themes and Perspectives

The book delves into three primary themes: Dravid, the cricketer, the teammate, and the person. Each theme is explored through contributions from teammates, opponents, journalists, and even his wife, Vijeeta Dravid, providing a well-rounded and intimate portrayal of the man behind the legend.

Dravid the Cricketer

The book meticulously examines Dravid’s cricketing prowess, highlighting his technical mastery, mental fortitude, and adaptability. Known as “The Wall” for his impregnable defence, Dravid’s ability to perform under pressure and consistency across formats are recurring themes.

• Dependability: Dravid’s statistical reliability is emphasised, with comparisons to legends like Sunil Gavaskar underscoring his unparalleled consistency. His record of facing 46,563 balls in Test cricket, the most by any Indian batsman, is a testament to his endurance and resilience.
• Adaptability: The book highlights Dravid’s ability to evolve with the game, excelling in both Test and ODI formats. His transition from a traditional Test batsman to a successful ODI player and captain is explored in detail.
• Match-Winning Contributions: Key innings such as his 180 in Kolkata (2001), 148 in Leeds (2002), and twin centuries in Adelaide (2003) are revisited, showcasing his ability to deliver in high-stakes situations. These performances defined his career and played a pivotal role in India’s rise as a competitive Test side.

Dravid the Teammate

Dravid’s relationships with teammates and opponents are a central focus of the book. He is universally described as a gentleman, a fierce competitor, and a calming influence in the dressing room.

• Respectful Demeanor: Dravid’s humility and respect for others, regardless of their stature, are highlighted. His polite and considerate nature made him a beloved figure among his peers.
• Team Player: The book underscores Dravid’s selflessness, as evidenced by his willingness to take on multiple roles—opening the batting, keeping wickets, and captaining the side—all for the team’s benefit. His record 210 catches in Test cricket further exemplify his commitment to the team’s success.

Dravid the Person

Perhaps the most compelling aspect of the book is its exploration of Dravid’s personal qualities. He emerges as a man of integrity, humility, and intellectual curiosity whose values transcended the boundaries of cricket.

• Modesty and Humility: Despite his achievements, Dravid remained grounded and self-effacing. His wife, Vijeeta, provides a poignant glimpse into his private life, revealing that he never celebrated his on-field successes at home and disliked being called a “hero.”
• Intellectual Curiosity: Dravid’s love for reading and the quest for knowledge are recurring themes. His ability to reflect on his career objectively and his awareness of the ironies of stardom set him apart from his contemporaries.
• Family Values: The book highlights Dravid’s devotion to his family, particularly his wife and son, Samit. His ability to balance the demands of international cricket with his responsibilities as a husband and father is a testament to his character.

Key Moments and Innings

The book revisits several defining moments in Dravid’s career, each illustrating his technical brilliance and mental toughness:

• Kolkata 2001: His 180 against Australia, overshadowed by VVS Laxman’s 281, was instrumental in one of India’s greatest Test victories.
• Adelaide 2003: His twin centuries (233 and 72*) against Australia paved the way for India’s first Test win in Australia in over two decades.
• Rawalpindi 2004: His marathon 270 against Pakistan remains the longest Test innings by an Indian batsman.
• Jamaica 2006: His twin fifties in Sabina Park helped India secure their first series win in the Caribbean in 35 years.
• Nottingham 2011: His 117 at Trent Bridge during India’s tour of England was a rare bright spot in an otherwise dismal series.

Writing Style and Structure

The book’s structure is thematic and chronological, allowing readers to engage with Dravid’s career and character from multiple angles. The contributions from various writers, including Gideon Haigh, Rohit Brijnath, and Jarrod Kimber, add depth and diversity to the narrative. Including personal anecdotes and interviews, particularly from Vijeeta Dravid, provides an intimate and humanising perspective.

The writing is authoritative yet accessible, making it suitable for cricket enthusiasts and casual readers. Using statistics and match analyses is balanced with personal reflections, ensuring the book remains engaging and relatable.

Ideal Audience

Rahul Dravid: Timeless Steel is an essential read for cricket fans, particularly those who admire Dravid’s contributions to the game. It is also a valuable resource for sports journalism and biography students, offering insights into crafting a compelling narrative around a sporting icon.

The book’s emphasis on humility, integrity, and resilience makes it a source of inspiration for young athletes and professionals. It is a reminder that greatness is not just about talent and achievements but also character and principles.

Conclusion

Rahul Dravid: Timeless Steel is more than a tribute to a cricketing legend; it celebrates the values that define true greatness. Through meticulous research, diverse perspectives, and an engaging narrative, the book captures the essence of Rahul Dravid—the cricketer, the teammate, and the person. It is a fitting homage to a man who embodied the spirit of cricket and left an indelible mark on the game and its followers.

This book is invaluable for anyone who understands what it means to excel with grace and dignity. It is a testament to the timeless appeal of Rahul Dravid, a man who indeed was, and remains, the embodiment of steel—both on and off the field.

Gunjan for Egoistic Readers