Why Rahul Dravid is Called the Wall of Indian Cricket

Sportspersons, especially cricket players, often acquire nicknames that reflect their skills and cricketing journey. Sachin Tendulkar, universally hailed as the "God of Cricket," left an indelible mark on the sport with his unprecedented records. Sourav Ganguly known as "The God of Offside," wielded his bat with unmatched grace through the offside.

Shane Warne, the former Australian leg-spinner, was dubbed "The Spin Wizard" for his mesmerizing spin bowling that bamboozled batsmen. Brian Lara, the West Indian maestro, earned the title "Prince of Port of Spain" after his stellar performances in his hometown. Virender Sehwag, known as the "Sultan of Multan," showcased his explosive batting style with a memorable triple century in Multan.

Rahul Dravid, who is called the wall of cricket, earned the moniker for his impregnable defence and unyielding resilience at the crease.

These knocks prove why Rahul Dravid is called The Wall

270 vs Pakistan in 2004

Dravid's memorable innings of 270 against Pakistan in 2004 at Rawalpindi showcased his exceptional resilience. His marathon knock anchored India's innings and set a solid foundation.

Displaying a diverse range of shots, the Wall of Indian Cricket maintained control while Pakistan struggled. This was his fifth double century, and the third in six months. Dravid reached 270 off 495 balls, with 34 fours and a six before a reverse sweep dismissal. India's total reached 600, establishing a commanding 376-run lead. The following day, India secured a historic series win on Pakistani soil, triumphing by an innings and 131 runs. 

233 vs Australia in 2003

During the Adelaide Test in December 2003, Dravid's innings of 233 played a pivotal role in India's first Test win in Australia in 22 years. Facing a formidable Australian bowling attack, Dravid exhibited unwavering concentration and excellent shot selection and batted for more than 800 minutes.

His 303-run partnership with VVS Laxman, who scored 148, was particularly crucial. Dravid faced 466 balls in his innings of 233, demonstrating immense patience and determination. This innings solidified his reputation as The Wall in cricket.

India won the match by four wickets chasing after Dravid once again played an important knock in the second innings (an unbeaten 72).

180 vs Australia in 2001

Test cricket lovers will never forget this game played between India and Australia at the Eden Gardens in 2001. It was the second Test of the Border Gavaskar Trophy. Despite being compelled to follow on, India secured victory by 171 runs, marking only the third instance of such an occurrence in Test cricket history since its inception in 1877.

VVS Laxman and Rahul Dravid's exceptional batting partnership, Harbhajan Singh's hattrick, and Sourav Ganguly's bold captaincy are the standout moments from the memorable match.
India was following on after being bowled out for 171 in the first innings, trailing by 274 runs. Dravid and Laxman scripted one of the greatest comebacks in Test cricket history, saving India from a defeat. Facing a formidable Australian bowling attack, including the likes of Glenn McGrath and Shane Warne, both batsmen showcased remarkable technique and concentration.

Their partnership of 376 runs set a new record for the highest partnership in Test cricket at that time. Dravid's innings (180 off 353) was characterized by his solid defence and ability to absorb pressure. 

81 vs West Indies in 2006 

This match took place at Sabina Park during the fourth Test of India's tour of the West Indies in 2006. The conditions in Kingston were challenging for batters, and the West Indian pace attack posed a significant threat. The only batter who was able to deliver for India was Dravid. He scored twin fifties, helping India win their first series in the West Indies in 35 years.

India, batting first, faced early setbacks, losing wickets quickly. Dravid, however, displayed his trademark grit and determination. He formed crucial partnerships, especially with the tailenders.

Dravid faced 215 balls to score a notable 81. Alongside Kumble, who contributed 45 runs from 101 deliveries, they together built a partnership of 93. Dravid followed up his first innings half-century with a knock of 68 in the second innings.

148 vs South Africa in 1997

Dravid scored his first-ever Test century in Johannesburg in 1997 while facing the likes of Allan Donald and Shaun Pollock. He made an impressive 148 off 362 in the first innings, contributing to India's total of 410. Javagal Srinath secured a five-wicket haul, giving India a substantial lead. Dravid added 81 in the second innings, but unfortunately, rain disrupted the match in the final two days. The match was drawn. 

Rahul Dravid Test Career

Dravid played several memorable knocks in Test cricket, some of which we mentioned above.

Dravid's Test career spanned from 1996 to 2012. He made his Test debut on June 20, 1996, against England at Lord's. Showcasing his technical prowess and resilience, he scored 95 runs in the first innings and announced his arrival on the international stage. Over the course of his illustrious Test career, Dravid set several records. He holds the record for facing the greatest number of deliveries in Test cricket, having played 31,258 balls. Additionally, he has spent the most time at the crease in Tests - 44,153 minutes.

In 2004, after scoring a century against Bangladesh in Chittagong, he became the first player to score a century in all the ten Test-playing countries (the number of Test-playing countries is now 12).

Renowned for his solid technique and impeccable temperament, Dravid became the backbone of the Indian batting lineup. Amassing 13,288 runs in 164 Tests at an average of 52.31, he stands as India's second-highest run-scorer in the format, only behind Sachin Tendulkar. Dravid's final Test was against Australia in Adelaide in 2012.