Seven things to learn from Rahul Dravid

Gain mastery in the field chosen

Beginning the cricketing journey at his school days itself, Dravid made his first class debut in 1991 for his home state Karnataka. Five years of consistent performances for Karnataka earned him a place for Indian National team in 1996.

Since then, for the next 15 years, there was no looking back for the stylish right-hander as he kept on climbing the ladder of greatness, crossing many milestones, creating new batting records and winning matches for India.

While batting in Tests, he put a great price on his wicket, often spending long hours at the batting crease, keeping opponent bowlers in bay, either laying in the foundation for a big score or taking his team to a safe position. In shorter formats, he mixed caution with aggression, making sure the scoreboard kept ticking.

It was not just about the approach, but he made the batting looked beautiful! The caressing cover drive, a sharp square cut, a silky straight drive, the productive pull, the list goes on. Every shot in the book was played with perfection!

As long as he was in the crease, Team India and its fans found themselves in a cozy comfort zone. Rightfully, a unique sobriquet "The Wall" came his way, with or without his liking!

In numbers, "The Wall" appeared in 164 Tests amassing 13288 runs with 36 centuries. He is at present, fourth among the top run-getters in Tests. In the 50-over format, he played in 344 matches, accumulating 10889 runs with 12 centuries. He is among the only two batsmen from India who have crossed 10K runs in both the formats. He even made his mark in the only T20I played where he hit three consecutive sixes against England.

Not just in batting, RD was very good in the field as well. He made his mark in taking sharp catches in slips and short legs. Showing great alertness and reflexes, he pouched 210 catches for his bowlers, which is a record in Test Cricket.

Learning Takeaway - The numbers themselves inspire anyone to give their best in their chosen profession, gain proficiency over the activities involved, and try to achieve maximum returns from the profession.