Rahul Sharad Dravid was born on January 11, 1973, in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India. His family moved to Bangalore, Karnataka, where he was raised. His father, Sharad Dravid, worked for a company that manufactured jams and preserves, and his mother, Pushpa Dravid, was a professor of architecture at the University Visvesvaraya College of Engineering (UVCE), Bangalore. Rahul’s early life was characterized by a deep passion for cricket, which was evident from a young age.
How did Dravid’s interest in cricket begin?
Dravid’s journey in cricket began at the age of 12 when he started playing for his school team. His talent was quickly recognized, and he was selected to represent the Karnataka state team at various age-group levels. His exceptional skills and dedication to the sport paved the way for his selection to the Indian national team.
Career
What were the major milestones in Rahul Dravid’s career?
Rahul Dravid made his international debut in an ODI against Sri Lanka in April 1996. However, it was his Test debut against England at Lord’s in June 1996 that marked the beginning of an illustrious career. He scored 95 runs in his debut innings, showcasing his technique and temperament.
What are some of Dravid’s notable achievements?
Dravid, often referred to as “The Wall” for his solid batting technique, has numerous records to his name. He is one of the few cricketers to have scored over 10,000 runs in both Test and ODI cricket. Some of his notable achievements include:
- Test Runs: Dravid has scored 13,288 runs in 164 Test matches at an average of 52.31, including 36 centuries and 63 half-centuries.
- ODI Runs: In ODIs, he amassed 10,889 runs in 344 matches at an average of 39.16, with 12 centuries and 83 half-centuries.
- ICC Awards: Dravid was named ICC Player of the Year and Test Player of the Year in 2004.
- Captaincy: He served as the captain of the Indian team, leading them to several memorable victories, including the Test series win in the West Indies in 2006 and the historic Test series win against England in 2007.
How did Dravid transition to a coaching role?
After retiring from international cricket in 2012, Dravid continued to contribute to the sport as a coach and mentor. He coached the India A and Under-19 teams, guiding the latter to victory in the 2018 ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup. In 2021, he was appointed as the head coach of the Indian national team, bringing his wealth of experience and knowledge to the role.
Relationships
Who is Rahul Dravid married to?
Rahul Dravid is married to Vijeta Pendharkar, a surgeon from Nagpur. The couple tied the knot in May 2003. Vijeta has largely stayed away from the public eye, focusing on her medical career and supporting Dravid throughout his cricketing journey.
Do they have children?
Rahul and Vijeta have two sons, Samit and Anvay. Samit, the elder son, has shown interest in cricket and has played at the junior levels, while Anvay is still young and exploring his interests.
Real Estate
What kind of properties does Rahul Dravid own?
Rahul Dravid owns several properties in India, reflecting his success and stature. His primary residence is in Bangalore, a spacious and luxurious house in a posh locality. The house is equipped with all modern amenities, including a well-maintained garden and a dedicated space for his cricket memorabilia.
Has Dravid invested in other real estate ventures?
Besides his residence, Dravid has invested in other real estate ventures, including commercial properties and plots in various parts of India. These investments have contributed to his substantial net worth.
Net Worth
What is Rahul Dravid’s estimated net worth?
As of 2024, Rahul Dravid’s estimated net worth is around $23 million. His wealth comes from various sources, including his cricket career, coaching roles, brand endorsements, and real estate investments. Dravid has been associated with several high-profile brands, including Reebok, Castrol, Max Life Insurance, and Bank of Baroda, which have significantly added to his income.
Age and Other Aspects
How old is Rahul Dravid?
As of 2024, Rahul Dravid is 51 years old. Despite his retirement from professional cricket, he remains actively involved in the sport through coaching and mentorship.
What are Dravid’s contributions outside cricket?
Apart from his cricketing achievements, Rahul Dravid is known for his contributions to various social causes. He has been involved in several charitable activities, focusing on education and health. Dravid is also a member of the Laureus World Sports Academy, which supports sports-based community projects around the world.
What is Rahul Dravid’s legacy?
Rahul Dravid’s legacy extends beyond his statistics and records. He is revered for his humility, sportsmanship, and dedication to the game. His ability to play long, patient innings and his role as a dependable middle-order batsman have made him a role model for aspiring cricketers. Dravid’s contributions as a coach have further cemented his status as one of the greatest ambassadors of the sport.
How does Dravid spend his time post-retirement?
Post-retirement, Dravid enjoys spending time with his family and engaging in activities like reading and traveling. He remains a prominent figure in the cricketing community, often seen analyzing matches and providing insights.
What makes Rahul Dravid unique?
Rahul Dravid’s uniqueness lies in his combination of skill, discipline, and integrity. His approach to the game, both as a player and a coach, reflects his deep understanding and respect for cricket. Dravid’s journey from a young boy in Bangalore to an international cricketing icon serves as an inspiration to many.
In conclusion, Rahul Dravid’s net worth of $23 million is a testament to his successful career and wise investments. His contributions to cricket, both on and off the field, have left an indelible mark on the sport, making him one of the most respected and admired cricketers of all time.
