3 off-field instances which show the Greatness of Rahul Dravid

Rahul Dravid, the ‘Wall’ of Indian cricket team, announced his International retirement on March 9, 2012. He then represented Rajasthan Royals during the fifth and sixth editions of Indian Premier League. Upon retirement, he has continued his association with the game as a head coach for teams like Delhi Daredevils, India ‘A’, and India U19.

In an era, where the modern-day coaches have fallen in love with T20 leagues for both monetary and time benefits, Dravid’s heart rests with the grassroots of the game. When the conflict of interest issue surfaced, Dravid decided to let go of his luxurious IPL job and became the coach of India ‘A’ and U19 teams. This single incident can be a testament to his love towards the game.

Dravid is widely regarded as the ‘Gentleman’ of the ‘Gentleman’s game.’ Apart from his on-field heroics, his off-field behaviors too have played a vital role in naming him with such a prestigious tag.

Let us look at three such off-field cases, which show the greatness of Rahul Dravid.

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#3 Rejecting the ‘Doctorate’

Dravid had rejected the 'Doctorate' twice

On January 2017, Bangalore University decided to confer Rahul Dravid with an honorary doctorate at their 52nd Annual Convocation Ceremony. Dravid was supposed to be the second Bengaluru-based cricketer to receive an honorary doctorate from the Bangalore University. Gundappa Vishwanath had earlier been conferred with the same degree.

However, the Indian batting legend rejected the offer. In a press release shared by the University, Dravid was quoted as saying, “he would try to earn a Doctorate Degree by accomplishing some form of academic research in the field of sports rather than receiving an honorary degree.”

It was not the first time that Dravid had denied a doctorate. Earlier, in 2014, Gulbarga University decided to give him one, but Dravid did not attend the convocation ceremony.

#2 Requesting for ‘Equity’ in cash reward

Dravid with his U19 boys celebrating their success at the 2018 U19 WC

Earlier this year, under the coaching of Rahul Dravid, the Prithvi Shaw-led U19 boys won the 2018 ICC U19 World Cup. Celebrating the special occasion, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had announced prize money for the team, coach, and the support staff. Initially, BCCI announced INR 50 lakh for Dravid and INR 20 and 30 lakh for other members of his support staff and players respectively.

However, Dravid had other ideas and expressed his disappointment with the BCCI. He demanded an ‘equal’ monetary reward. Earlier, before the announcement of prize reward, Dravid said, “It's a bit embarrassing at times because I tend to get a lot of attention and focus, but it is really about the support staff and the quality of people that we have had. I do not want to mention names, but everyone in the support staff has put in a great effort. We do the best for the kids".

Later, during a meeting in Mumbai, the Committee of Administrators (CoA) chief Vinod Rai confirmed that Dravid's request was accepted.

#1 Brand Ambassador for National Tobacco Control Campaign

Dravid featuring in an 'anti-tobacco' promotion

It is a well-known fact that a majority of sportspersons and actors earn their large chunk of income from Ads and Promotions. In a world where people promote cold drinks, liquor and various food products, Dravid stands out from the rest.

Earlier, in 2013, the Union Health Ministry announced Rahul Dravid as ‘Brand Ambassador’ for its National Tobacco Control Campaign. Later, the government launched various public service advertisements and posters on tobacco control featuring Rahul Dravid. In theatres, Dravid’s face is the first thing that appears before the start of a movie.

A legend like Dravid promoting such ads will undoubtedly ensure the reduction in the consumption of tobacco.