Rahul Dravid Biography: Life Story, Career, Records, Family & Achievements
Introduction
Rahul Dravid, fondly known as “The Wall”, is one of the greatest batsmen in cricket history and one of India’s most respected sporting icons. Known for his impeccable technique, patience, and discipline, Dravid earned admiration worldwide as the backbone of India’s batting for over 15 years. Beyond being a run-machine, he is also celebrated for his humility, leadership, and contribution to nurturing the next generation of cricketers.
Personal Information
- Full Name: Rahul Sharad Dravid
- Date of Birth: 11 January 1973
- Birthplace: Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India
- Nationality: Indian
- Zodiac Sign: Capricorn
Physical Appearance
- Height: 5 feet 11 inches (180 cm)
- Weight: Approx. 76 kg
- Hair Color: Black
- Eye Color: Dark Brown
Early Life & Family Background
Rahul Dravid was born to Sharad Dravid and Pushpa Dravid. His father worked for a company that made jams, earning Dravid the nickname “Jammy” during his school days. He was raised in Bangalore, Karnataka, and developed a love for cricket at an early age.
Education & Early Cricket Journey
Dravid studied at St. Joseph’s Boys’ High School and later graduated in Commerce from St. Joseph’s College of Commerce, Bangalore. He represented Karnataka in age-group cricket before making his Ranji debut in 1991. His technique and temperament stood out, marking him as a future star.
International Career
Debut Matches
- Test Debut: 20 June 1996 vs England at Lord’s – scored 95 runs.
- ODI Debut: 3 April 1996 vs Sri Lanka.
Career Highlights
- Tests: 13,288 runs in 164 matches at an average of 52.31, including 36 centuries.
- ODIs: 10,889 runs in 344 matches at an average of 39.16, including 12 centuries.
- Known for his partnerships with Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly, and VVS Laxman.
- Played a legendary innings of 180 vs Australia at Kolkata (2001) with Laxman (281) in the famous Eden Gardens Test comeback win.
- Scored centuries in all 10 Test-playing nations – a rare achievement.
Captaincy
- Captained India between 2005–2007.
- Led India to historic Test wins overseas, including a series victory in the West Indies (2006) and England (2007).
IPL & Domestic Career
- Played for Royal Challengers Bangalore and Rajasthan Royals in the IPL.
- Retired from professional cricket in 2013.
Coaching Career
- Head of India A and U-19 teams, nurturing future stars like Shubman Gill, Prithvi Shaw, and Rishabh Pant.
- Became Head Coach of Team India (Senior Men’s Cricket Team) in November 2021.
Records & Achievements
- Most balls faced (31,258) and most minutes batted (44,152) in Test cricket history.
- 2nd Indian (after Sachin Tendulkar) to score 10,000 runs in ODIs.
- ICC Cricketer of the Year & Test Player of the Year (2004).
- Padma Shri (2004) and Padma Bhushan (2013) recipient.
- Inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame in 2018.
Personal Life
Rahul Dravid married Vijeta Pendharkar, a surgeon, in 2003. The couple has two sons, Samit and Anvay.
Legacy
Rahul Dravid’s legacy goes far beyond records. He is remembered as the “Gentleman of Cricket”, admired for his integrity, humility, and team-first attitude. As a player, captain, and coach, he has inspired millions and continues to shape Indian cricket’s future.
FAQs
Q1: Why is Rahul Dravid called “The Wall”?
Because of his solid defense and ability to bat for long hours, making him almost impossible to dismiss.
Q2: How many international runs did Rahul Dravid score?
He scored over 24,000 international runs across formats (Tests, ODIs, and T20Is).
Q3: Did Rahul Dravid ever captain India?
Yes, he captained India from 2005 to 2007, achieving historic overseas Test wins.
Q4: What is Rahul Dravid doing after retirement?
He is the Head Coach of the Indian Men’s Cricket Team since 2021.
Q5: Has Rahul Dravid won ICC awards?
Yes, he was named ICC Cricketer of the Year and Test Player of the Year in 2004.
