Cricketing stalwart Steve Waugh, who is often referred as Australia's most successful captain, praised former Indian cricketer and revealed the reason behind his greatness.&nbsp;

Steve Waugh feels no player "enjoyed playing for the country" as much as former leg-spinner Anil Kumble did.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-intervention-helps-team-india-get-swimming-pool-gym-housekeeping-staff-access-in-brisbane-356423" hreflang="en">BCCI intervention helps Team India get swimming pool, gym, housekeeping staff access in Brisbane</a>

"I don't think I played anyone who enjoyed playing for the country as much as he (Anil Kumble) did. It was everything to him. We certainly didn't play him as a leg-spinner. We played him more like a slow in-swing bowler," Waugh recalled in a video posted by cricket.com.au.

"He had a great change of pace. It was all about variations, use of the crease. He sort of mixed it up a bit. Anything in the wicket like a bit of rough or unevenness, and he was more than a handful."

Anil Kumble ended his prolific career with 619 Test wickets (which is the most by any Indian bowler and third-highest overall). Kumble has great stats against Australia as the Indian spin wizard scalped 111 wickets in 20 Tests at an average of 21.33. He had 10 five-wicket hauls against the Aussies.&nbsp;

During Waugh's final series (2003/04 Border-Gavaskar Trophy`), Kumble took 24 wickets in three-match Test series. Waugh went on to call Kumble the "Dravid of bowling line-up".&nbsp;

"He (Anil Kumble) was a fierce competitor. He was always at you and never gave you an inch. I can't remember him bowling poorly against us. He was a bit like Dravid of their bowling line-up. The captain knew what they were going to get from him. He was there all the time," Waugh said.

Cricketing stalwart Steve Waugh, who is often referred as Australia's most successful captain, praised former Indian cricketer and revealed the reason behind his greatness.

Cricketing stalwart Steve Waugh, who is often referred as Australia's most successful captain, praised former Indian cricketer and revealed the reason behind his greatness. Steve Waugh feels no player "enjoyed playing for the country" as much as former leg-spinner Anil Kumble did. ALSO READ: BCCI intervention helps Team India get swimming pool, gym, housekeeping staff access in Brisbane "I don't think I played anyone who enjoyed playing for the country as much as he (Anil Kumble) did. It was everything to him. We certainly didn't play him as a leg-spinner. We played him more like a slow in-swing bowler," Waugh recalled in a video posted by cricket.com.au. "He had a great change of pace. It was all about variations, use of the crease. He sort of mixed it up a bit. Anything in the wicket like a bit of rough or unevenness, and he was more than a handful." Anil Kumble ended his prolific career with 619 Test wickets (which is the most by any Indian bowler and third-highest overall). Kumble has great stats against Australia as the Indian spin wizard scalped 111 wickets in 20 Tests at an average of 21.33. He had 10 five-wicket hauls against the Aussies. During Waugh's final series (2003/04 Border-Gavaskar Trophy`), Kumble took 24 wickets in three-match Test series. Waugh went on to call Kumble the "Dravid of bowling line-up". "He (Anil Kumble) was a fierce competitor. He was always at you and never gave you an inch. I can't remember him bowling poorly against us. He was a bit like Dravid of their bowling line-up. The captain knew what they were going to get from him. He was there all the time," Waugh said.

'He is Dravid of India's bowling unit': Aussie great Steve Waugh praises this Indian bowler

Former India batsman and NCA head Rahul Dravid has backed the thought of adding T20 cricket in the Olympics. He said that he is all for the expansion of the game.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2020-witnessed-record-breaking-surge-in-viewership-342978" hreflang="en">IPL 2020 witnessed record-breaking surge in viewership</a>

Manoj Badle, the lead owner of IPL franchise Rajasthan Royals in association with Simon Hughes launched their book via virtual seminar on Friday called 'A New Innings'. Dravid was a part of the seminar.&nbsp;

"I think it will be great if the T20 format of the game can become an Olympic sport. Obviously, it will come with its challenges. Also, cricket is a game that requires a certain kind of facility for it to be successful," Dravid said during the virtual seminar.

"We have seen in the just-concluded IPL, the success of IPL was on large part due to the quality of wickets... if you can get all of that right and get the facilities in place then why not. I am certainly for the expansion of the T20 game. If it is possible, cricket should endeavor to try and get into the Olympics," he added.

Mumbai Indians were the champions of IPL 2020, after beating Delhi Capitals in the finals last Tuesday. Mumbai extended their record by winning the Indian Premier League title for the fifth time. They also became the second team in IPL history to successfully defend their trophy.&nbsp;

Dravid lauded Mumbai Indians and said that they have a really good mix of experienced and young talented players.

"I think what they have done really well over the last 4-5 years is that they have maintained a really strong core of really high-quality players and mixed that up with identifying some really good young talented players," he said.

"... that has really been the key, their ability to maintain a core of very experienced senior players, obviously world-class T20 players, and the critical thing is that then balancing that out with young exciting Indian talent. And they have been able to do that exceptionally well," Dravid added.

Former India batsman and NCA head Rahul Dravid has backed the thought of adding T20 cricket in the Olympics. He said that he is all for the expansion of the game.

Former India batsman and NCA head Rahul Dravid has backed the thought of adding T20 cricket in the Olympics. He said that he is all for the expansion of the game. Also read: IPL 2020 witnessed record-breaking surge in viewership Manoj Badle, the lead owner of IPL franchise Rajasthan Royals in association with Simon Hughes launched their book via virtual seminar on Friday called 'A New Innings'. Dravid was a part of the seminar. "I think it will be great if the T20 format of the game can become an Olympic sport. Obviously, it will come with its challenges. Also, cricket is a game that requires a certain kind of facility for it to be successful," Dravid said during the virtual seminar. "We have seen in the just-concluded IPL, the success of IPL was on large part due to the quality of wickets... if you can get all of that right and get the facilities in place then why not. I am certainly for the expansion of the T20 game. If it is possible, cricket should endeavor to try and get into the Olympics," he added. Mumbai Indians were the champions of IPL 2020, after beating Delhi Capitals in the finals last Tuesday. Mumbai extended their record by winning the Indian Premier League title for the fifth time. They also became the second team in IPL history to successfully defend their trophy. Dravid lauded Mumbai Indians and said that they have a really good mix of experienced and young talented players. "I think what they have done really well over the last 4-5 years is that they have maintained a really strong core of really high-quality players and mixed that up with identifying some really good young talented players," he said. "... that has really been the key, their ability to maintain a core of very experienced senior players, obviously world-class T20 players, and the critical thing is that then balancing that out with young exciting Indian talent. And they have been able to do that exceptionally well," Dravid added.

'T20 format of the game can become an Olympic sport': Rahul Dravid

Batting legend Rahul Dravid, often dubbed as 'The Wall', has been crucial in grooming India's next generation in the sport. His coaching stints for the U-19 team and India A have been lauded by many.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-have-no-say-ravi-shastri-reacts-to-rohit-sharmas-omission-from-indian-squad-for-australia-tour-339405" hreflang="en">'I have no say': Ravi Shastri reacts to Rohit Sharma's omission from Indian squad for Australia tour</a>

Mumbai Indians' young gun Ishan Kishan, who played an amazing knock of unbeaten 74 &nbsp;in 47 balls to help them win against Delhi Capitals on Saturday. Kishan recalled Dravid's advice after the win. According to the young player, Dravid's advice helped him in the UAE during IPL 2020.

"My mom must get the credit for the food she gives me, that makes me so powerful, and sometimes even I’m surprised how my sixes carry such a long way," Kishan said at the post-match presentation ceremony.

"My coaches told me that playing shots on the off-side is important, and that wasn’t my strength initially, and I knew, even Rahul sir told me that I need to work on my off-side shots so I’ve been working on that this season and thankfully it’s showing in the match situation now,” he further added.

"It was not as easy as it looked. The ball wasn’t coming on so I had to keep rotating the strike and then take them apart later. It all depends on the practice sessions, and how you train I wanted to keep my shape and hit sixes," Ishna Kishan said.

On being asked if he likes batting as an opener, Ishan Kishan said: "I enjoy batting everywhere, wherever the management wants me to bat. At this level you have to be able to adapt."

Batting legend Rahul Dravid, often dubbed as 'The Wall', has been crucial in grooming India's next generation in the sport. His coaching stints for the U-19 team and India A have been lauded by many.

Batting legend Rahul Dravid, often dubbed as 'The Wall', has been crucial in grooming India's next generation in the sport. His coaching stints for the U-19 team and India A have been lauded by many. Also read: 'I have no say': Ravi Shastri reacts to Rohit Sharma's omission from Indian squad for Australia tour Mumbai Indians' young gun Ishan Kishan, who played an amazing knock of unbeaten 74 in 47 balls to help them win against Delhi Capitals on Saturday. Kishan recalled Dravid's advice after the win. According to the young player, Dravid's advice helped him in the UAE during IPL 2020. "My mom must get the credit for the food she gives me, that makes me so powerful, and sometimes even I’m surprised how my sixes carry such a long way," Kishan said at the post-match presentation ceremony. "My coaches told me that playing shots on the off-side is important, and that wasn’t my strength initially, and I knew, even Rahul sir told me that I need to work on my off-side shots so I’ve been working on that this season and thankfully it’s showing in the match situation now,” he further added. "It was not as easy as it looked. The ball wasn’t coming on so I had to keep rotating the strike and then take them apart later. It all depends on the practice sessions, and how you train I wanted to keep my shape and hit sixes," Ishna Kishan said. On being asked if he likes batting as an opener, Ishan Kishan said: "I enjoy batting everywhere, wherever the management wants me to bat. At this level you have to be able to adapt."

'Sir told me...': Ishan Kishan talks about Rahul Dravid's advice that helped him in UAE

India’s legendary cricketer Rahul Dravid revealed that it was maestro Kapil Dev’s advice that helped him to explore options following his retirement before he decided to pick up the coaching job of India A and Under-19 sides.

Dravid is of the view that he was “a little fortunate” given that he was already in a captain-cum-coach role for Indian Premier League (IPL) side Rajasthan Royals.&nbsp;

“After I finished (playing), there were quite a few options and I was not sure what to do. It was Kapil Dev who gave me this advice actually when I was coming to the end of my career,” Dravid told India women’s team coach WV Raman on his Youtube channel ‘Inside Out’.

“I bumped into him somewhere and he said ‘Rahul, don’t commit to doing anything straightaway, go out and spend a few years just exploring and doing different things and see what you really like’. I thought it was good advice.” The former captain said initially he liked doing commentary, but later found “a little disconnect” from the game.

“...the thing that gave me the most satisfaction was really being involved in the game and being connected with the boys. I really liked the coaching side of things and I got sort of involved in that when the opportunity came up to do some coaching with India A and Under-19,” Dravid said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jofra-archer-available-for-3rd-test-vs-wi-fined-and-warned-for-breaching-bio-secure-protocols-314294" hreflang="en">Jofra Archer available for 3rd Test vs WI; fined and warned for breaching bio-secure protocols</a>

“I thought it was a good place to start and took it up and I’ve really enjoyed it since. I just feel a lot more satisfying to be involved in the coaching side of things,” said the legendary batsman, who piled up 13288 runs from 164 Tests between 1996 and 2012.

“Especially the developmental side of coaching, whether India A, Under-19 or the NCA. It’s really given me the opportunity to work with a lot of the players without having to worry about the immediate results which I think is a really nice space for me to work in.” He backed the BCCI’s decision to restrict U-19 players to one World Cup only.

“Instead of just 15-20 players, we were able to give 45 to 50 players exposure to the facilities at NCA, good coaches, good physios, good trainers, so it broadens the pool,” said Dravid, who is Head of Cricket at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru.

The Wall further said that India A players now feel secure as everyone gets a chance to play rather than warming the bench of a longer period. Dravid went on to reveal that he doubted himself as an ODI cricketer when he was dropped from the senior side in 1998 due to his strike-rate.&nbsp;

IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/3tcricket-south-african-players-officials-take-a-knee-in-support-of-black-lives-matter-movement-314276" hreflang="en">3TCricket: South African players take a knee in support of BLM movement</a>

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“There have been phases in my international career (when I felt insecure). I was dropped from the ODI team in 1998. I had to fight my way back in, was away from the Indian team for a year,” he said.

“There were certain insecurities than about whether I’m a good enough one-day player or not because I always wanted to be a Test player, was coached to be a Test player, hit the ball on the ground, don’t hit the ball in the air, coaching like that. You sort of worry whether you had the skills to be able to do it (in an ODI).”

Dravid made a sensational comeback to the Indian ODI side before the 1999 World Cup in England and ended up being the highest scorer (461) in the tournament.&nbsp;

Talking about choosing cricket over academics, he said, “Growing up as a young cricketer in India is not easy. In the time that I grew up there was only Ranji Trophy and revenue was so poor. I had to forgo a CA or MBA to pursue cricket so there was insecurity.” 
&nbsp;

India’s legendary cricketer Rahul Dravid revealed that it was maestro Kapil Dev’s advice that helped him to explore options following his retirement before he decided to pick up the coaching job of India A and Under-19 sides.

India’s legendary cricketer Rahul Dravid revealed that it was maestro Kapil Dev’s advice that helped him to explore options following his retirement before he decided to pick up the coaching job of India A and Under-19 sides. Dravid is of the view that he was “a little fortunate” given that he was already in a captain-cum-coach role for Indian Premier League (IPL) side Rajasthan Royals. “After I finished (playing), there were quite a few options and I was not sure what to do. It was Kapil Dev who gave me this advice actually when I was coming to the end of my career,” Dravid told India women’s team coach WV Raman on his Youtube channel ‘Inside Out’. “I bumped into him somewhere and he said ‘Rahul, don’t commit to doing anything straightaway, go out and spend a few years just exploring and doing different things and see what you really like’. I thought it was good advice.” The former captain said initially he liked doing commentary, but later found “a little disconnect” from the game. “...the thing that gave me the most satisfaction was really being involved in the game and being connected with the boys. I really liked the coaching side of things and I got sort of involved in that when the opportunity came up to do some coaching with India A and Under-19,” Dravid said. ALSO READ: Jofra Archer available for 3rd Test vs WI; fined and warned for breaching bio-secure protocols “I thought it was a good place to start and took it up and I’ve really enjoyed it since. I just feel a lot more satisfying to be involved in the coaching side of things,” said the legendary batsman, who piled up 13288 runs from 164 Tests between 1996 and 2012. “Especially the developmental side of coaching, whether India A, Under-19 or the NCA. It’s really given me the opportunity to work with a lot of the players without having to worry about the immediate results which I think is a really nice space for me to work in.” He backed the BCCI’s decision to restrict U-19 players to one World Cup only. “Instead of just 15-20 players, we were able to give 45 to 50 players exposure to the facilities at NCA, good coaches, good physios, good trainers, so it broadens the pool,” said Dravid, who is Head of Cricket at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru. The Wall further said that India A players now feel secure as everyone gets a chance to play rather than warming the bench of a longer period. Dravid went on to reveal that he doubted himself as an ODI cricketer when he was dropped from the senior side in 1998 due to his strike-rate. IN PICS | 3TCricket: South African players take a knee in support of BLM movement × “There have been phases in my international career (when I felt insecure). I was dropped from the ODI team in 1998. I had to fight my way back in, was away from the Indian team for a year,” he said. “There were certain insecurities than about whether I’m a good enough one-day player or not because I always wanted to be a Test player, was coached to be a Test player, hit the ball on the ground, don’t hit the ball in the air, coaching like that. You sort of worry whether you had the skills to be able to do it (in an ODI).” Dravid made a sensational comeback to the Indian ODI side before the 1999 World Cup in England and ended up being the highest scorer (461) in the tournament. Talking about choosing cricket over academics, he said, “Growing up as a young cricketer in India is not easy. In the time that I grew up there was only Ranji Trophy and revenue was so poor. I had to forgo a CA or MBA to pursue cricket so there was insecurity.”

'Don’t commit to anything now' - How Kapil Dev's advice made Rahul Dravid India A coach

ICC awards: Winners of Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy over the years

Rahul Dravid turns 47: Let's re-live the era of 'The Wall'

Pacer <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-james-anderson-shreds-ashwins-photo-as-his-reaction-to-mankading-incident-207275">James Anderson</a> on Thursday became the fifth bowler in this decade to take a wicket on the first ball of a Test match.

The pacer achieved the feat in the ongoing first Test match between England and South Africa at the Supersport Park in Centurion.

Anderson had Dena Elgar (0) caught at the hands of the wicket-keeper Jos Buttler on the very first ball of the match.

Before Anderson, Suranga Lakmal (Sri Lanka), Mitchell Starc (Australia) and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/south-african-quick-dale-steyn-retires-from-test-cricket-240928">Dale Steyn</a> (South Africa) were the only ones to take a wicket on the first ball of a match this decade. 
Lakmal has done this twice in this decade (2010 and 2017).

In the match, Anderson also became only the second English cricketer to play 150 Test matches. Overall, he has now become the ninth cricketer to achieve the feat.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sachin-tendulkar-loses-security-cover-aaditya-thackeray-gets-an-upgrade-to-z-270171">Sachin Tendulkar</a>, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rahul-dravid-to-head-of-national-cricket-academy-experts-react-positively-234118">Rahul Dravid</a> (India), Steve Waugh, Ricky Ponting, Allan Border (Australia), Jacques Kallis (South Africa), Shivnarine Chanderpaul (West Indies) and Alastair Cook (England) are the other cricketers who have played more than 150 Test matches.

In the ongoing Test between England and South Africa, the visitors won the toss and opted to bowl first.

England's former skipper Sir <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/alastair-cook-slams-33rd-test-century-7th-against-india-in-farewell-innings-164898">Alastair Cook</a> holds the record for playing most matches for England. He played 161 Tests for the country.

The 37-year-old Anderson is currently the leading wicket-taker for England in the longest format of the game with 575 wickets to his name.

He also finished this decade with the second-highest wickets after taking 535 wickets. He made his debut at the age of 20 for England.

Pacer James Anderson on Thursday became the fifth bowler in this decade to take a wicket on the first ball of a Test match. The pacer achieved the feat in the ongoing first Test match between England and South Africa at the Supersport Park in Centurion.

Pacer James Anderson on Thursday became the fifth bowler in this decade to take a wicket on the first ball of a Test match. The pacer achieved the feat in the ongoing first Test match between England and South Africa at the Supersport Park in Centurion. Anderson had Dena Elgar (0) caught at the hands of the wicket-keeper Jos Buttler on the very first ball of the match. Before Anderson, Suranga Lakmal (Sri Lanka), Mitchell Starc (Australia) and Dale Steyn (South Africa) were the only ones to take a wicket on the first ball of a match this decade. Lakmal has done this twice in this decade (2010 and 2017). In the match, Anderson also became only the second English cricketer to play 150 Test matches. Overall, he has now become the ninth cricketer to achieve the feat. Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid (India), Steve Waugh, Ricky Ponting, Allan Border (Australia), Jacques Kallis (South Africa), Shivnarine Chanderpaul (West Indies) and Alastair Cook (England) are the other cricketers who have played more than 150 Test matches. In the ongoing Test between England and South Africa, the visitors won the toss and opted to bowl first. England's former skipper Sir Alastair Cook holds the record for playing most matches for England. He played 161 Tests for the country. The 37-year-old Anderson is currently the leading wicket-taker for England in the longest format of the game with 575 wickets to his name. He also finished this decade with the second-highest wickets after taking 535 wickets. He made his debut at the age of 20 for England.

James Anderson becomes fifth bowler in this decade to take wicket on first ball of Test

Committee of Administrators (CoA) has cleared <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rahul-dravid-to-head-of-national-cricket-academy-experts-react-positively-234118">Rahul Dravid's appointment</a> as the head of National Cricket Academy (NCA), saying that there is no <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-sends-conflict-of-interest-notice-to-rahul-dravid-saurav-ganguly-says-god-help-indian-cricket-241347">conflict of interest in his case</a>.&nbsp;

"There's no conflict on Rahul's case. He has got a notice and we have cleared his appointment. We had seen no conflict," said Lt General Ravi Thogde,&nbsp;the new member of the CoA.&nbsp;

"If Ombudsman (sees any conflict), we will have our response going to the Ombudsman why there is no conflict. He has to consider (it). It's a process…and the process will continue," he added.&nbsp;

Earlier, Dravid was&nbsp;served a notice by BCCI's Ethics Officer after Madhya Pradesh Cricket Association (MPCA) member Sanjeev Gupta levelled conflict of interest allegations against the former Indian cricketer.&nbsp;

In his complaint, Gupta alleged that Dravid works as the chief of NCA and he is also employed as vice-president of India Cements group, which owns IPL franchise Chennai Super Kings (CSK).&nbsp;

Besides clearing Dravid's name, Thogde also talked about the future plans for the NCA and backed Dravid's appointment as the head.&nbsp;

"In NCA, there are a few things that need to be done. There are shortage of grounds, they require certain positions, certain people to be employed and certain coaches," said Thogde.&nbsp;

"There has to be continuity," Thodge said.&nbsp;

"Once you select someone of Dravid’s stature, he has to ensure that the NCA comes up to that international standard. He has given his vision and we are fully in support of his vision. We will work together," he concluded.&nbsp;

Committee of Administrators (CoA) has cleared Rahul Dravid's appointment as the head of National Cricket Academy (NCA), saying that there is no conflict of interest in his case.

Committee of Administrators (CoA) has cleared Rahul Dravid's appointment as the head of National Cricket Academy (NCA), saying that there is no conflict of interest in his case. "There's no conflict on Rahul's case. He has got a notice and we have cleared his appointment. We had seen no conflict," said Lt General Ravi Thogde, the new member of the CoA. "If Ombudsman (sees any conflict), we will have our response going to the Ombudsman why there is no conflict. He has to consider (it). It's a process…and the process will continue," he added. Earlier, Dravid was served a notice by BCCI's Ethics Officer after Madhya Pradesh Cricket Association (MPCA) member Sanjeev Gupta levelled conflict of interest allegations against the former Indian cricketer. In his complaint, Gupta alleged that Dravid works as the chief of NCA and he is also employed as vice-president of India Cements group, which owns IPL franchise Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Besides clearing Dravid's name, Thogde also talked about the future plans for the NCA and backed Dravid's appointment as the head. "In NCA, there are a few things that need to be done. There are shortage of grounds, they require certain positions, certain people to be employed and certain coaches," said Thogde. "There has to be continuity," Thodge said. "Once you select someone of Dravid’s stature, he has to ensure that the NCA comes up to that international standard. He has given his vision and we are fully in support of his vision. We will work together," he concluded.

No conflict of interest in Rahul Dravid's case, says CoA

Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) Ethics Officer&nbsp;has sent a notice to former Indian skipper Rahul Dravid after Madhya Pradesh Cricket Association (MPCA) member Sanjeev Gupta levelled conflict of interest allegations against the cricketer.

Gupta, in his complaint, alleged that Dravid works as the chief of National Cricket Academy (NCA) and he is also employed as vice-president of India Cements group, which owns IPL franchise Chennai Super Kings.

Ethics Officer Justice (Retd) DK Jain has asked Dravid&nbsp;to file his reply in two weeks.

Meanwhile, Saurav Ganguly has extended his support to Dravid, saying conflict of interest allegations have become a new fashion in the Indian cricket.&nbsp;

"New fashion in indian cricket .....conflict of interest ....Best way to remain in news ...god help indian cricket ......Dravid Gets Conflict of Interest Notice from BCCI Ethics Officer,"&nbsp;Ganguly tweeted.&nbsp;

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New fashion in indian cricket .....conflict of interest ....Best way to remain in news ...god help indian cricket ......Dravid Gets Conflict of Interest Notice from BCCI Ethics Officer <a href="https://t.co/3cD6hc6vsv">https://t.co/3cD6hc6vsv</a>.
— Sourav Ganguly (@SGanguly99) <a href="https://twitter.com/SGanguly99/status/1158818367861485568?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Ganguly was backed by Harbhajan Singh who said sending notices to these legends was like insulting them. "Really ?? Don’t know where it’s heading to.. u can’t get better person thn him for indian cricket. Sending notice to these legends is like insulting them.. cricket need their services for betterment.. yes god save indian cricket," Singh tweeted.

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Really ?? Don’t know where it’s heading to.. u can’t get better person thn him for indian cricket. Sending notice to these legends is like insulting them.. cricket need their services for betterment.. yes god save indian cricket 🙏 <a href="https://t.co/lioRClBl4l">https://t.co/lioRClBl4l</a>
— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) <a href="https://twitter.com/harbhajan_singh/status/1158819984534953984?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Gupta had earlier filed conflict of interest charges against former cricketers Sachin Tendulkar and VVS Laxman for their dual roles. Both Tendulkar and Laxman were part of Cricket Advisory Committee and were also the mentors of their respective IPL franchises.

 
(With inputs from agencies)

Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) Ethics Officer has sent a notice to former Indian skipper Rahul Dravid after Madhya Pradesh Cricket Association (MPCA) member Sanjeev Gupta levelled conflict of interest allegations against the cricketer.

Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) Ethics Officer has sent a notice to former Indian skipper Rahul Dravid after Madhya Pradesh Cricket Association (MPCA) member Sanjeev Gupta levelled conflict of interest allegations against the cricketer. Gupta, in his complaint, alleged that Dravid works as the chief of National Cricket Academy (NCA) and he is also employed as vice-president of India Cements group, which owns IPL franchise Chennai Super Kings. Ethics Officer Justice (Retd) DK Jain has asked Dravid to file his reply in two weeks. Meanwhile, Saurav Ganguly has extended his support to Dravid, saying conflict of interest allegations have become a new fashion in the Indian cricket. "New fashion in indian cricket .....conflict of interest ....Best way to remain in news ...god help indian cricket ......Dravid Gets Conflict of Interest Notice from BCCI Ethics Officer," Ganguly tweeted. New fashion in indian cricket .....conflict of interest ....Best way to remain in news ...god help indian cricket ......Dravid Gets Conflict of Interest Notice from BCCI Ethics Officer https://t.co/3cD6hc6vsv. — Sourav Ganguly (@SGanguly99) August 6, 2019 × Ganguly was backed by Harbhajan Singh who said sending notices to these legends was like insulting them. "Really ?? Don’t know where it’s heading to.. u can’t get better person thn him for indian cricket. Sending notice to these legends is like insulting them.. cricket need their services for betterment.. yes god save indian cricket," Singh tweeted. Really ?? Don’t know where it’s heading to.. u can’t get better person thn him for indian cricket. Sending notice to these legends is like insulting them.. cricket need their services for betterment.. yes god save indian cricket 🙏 https://t.co/lioRClBl4l — Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) August 6, 2019 × Gupta had earlier filed conflict of interest charges against former cricketers Sachin Tendulkar and VVS Laxman for their dual roles. Both Tendulkar and Laxman were part of Cricket Advisory Committee and were also the mentors of their respective IPL franchises. (With inputs from agencies)

BCCI sends conflict of interest notice to Rahul Dravid; Saurav Ganguly says 'God help Indian cricket'

List of Indian cricketers inducted in prestigious ICC Hall of Fame

Rahul Dravid was on Monday named the head of the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) said in a statement.

Former Test captain and junior India coach Dravid will look after all cricket related activities at the NCA and he will be involved in mentoring, coaching, training and motivating players, coaches and the support staff at the academy.

The former cricketer is also the head coach of India's under-19 and India A team. He has helped in grooming young talent such as Rishabh Pant, Prithvi Shaw.

The 46-year-old will also be closely working with the national women's and men's head coaches. He will also be directly involved with the Indian developmental teams which include India A, India Under 19, India Under 23 teams. Dravid will help in identification of key training and development objectives.

Indian cricket commentator Harsha Bhogle reacted to the news saying this is the best news of today.

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The best news today. Rahul Dravid is Head of Cricket at the NCA. When the level just below the national team is high, the national team is automatically good.
— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) <a href="https://twitter.com/bhogleharsha/status/1148281990308925443?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 8, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Calling Rahul Dravid a great person&nbsp;former South African captain Graeme Smith said that he is a great cricket brain.

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Think a lot of nations can learn from this <a href="https://twitter.com/bhogleharsha?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@bhogleharsha</a> not only is Rahul Dravid a great cricket brain, he is a great person! <a href="https://t.co/PKImjNddyl">https://t.co/PKImjNddyl</a>
— Graeme Smith (@GraemeSmith49) <a href="https://twitter.com/GraemeSmith49/status/1148286624725393408?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 8, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Dravid will be responsible for monitoring progress against these objectives for the developmental teams and he will be required to provide necessary inputs on the same to the senior men`s and women's head coaches.

(With inputs from ANI)

Rahul Dravid was on Monday named the head of the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) said in a statement.

Rahul Dravid was on Monday named the head of the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) said in a statement. Former Test captain and junior India coach Dravid will look after all cricket related activities at the NCA and he will be involved in mentoring, coaching, training and motivating players, coaches and the support staff at the academy. The former cricketer is also the head coach of India's under-19 and India A team. He has helped in grooming young talent such as Rishabh Pant, Prithvi Shaw. The 46-year-old will also be closely working with the national women's and men's head coaches. He will also be directly involved with the Indian developmental teams which include India A, India Under 19, India Under 23 teams. Dravid will help in identification of key training and development objectives. Indian cricket commentator Harsha Bhogle reacted to the news saying this is the best news of today. The best news today. Rahul Dravid is Head of Cricket at the NCA. When the level just below the national team is high, the national team is automatically good. — Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) July 8, 2019 × Calling Rahul Dravid a great person former South African captain Graeme Smith said that he is a great cricket brain. Think a lot of nations can learn from this @bhogleharsha not only is Rahul Dravid a great cricket brain, he is a great person! https://t.co/PKImjNddyl — Graeme Smith (@GraemeSmith49) July 8, 2019 × Dravid will be responsible for monitoring progress against these objectives for the developmental teams and he will be required to provide necessary inputs on the same to the senior men`s and women's head coaches. (With inputs from ANI)

Rahul Dravid to head National Cricket Academy, experts react positively

Indian captain Virat Kohli became the fastest batsman to cross the 20,000 international runs leaving behind legends Sachin Tendulkar and Brian Lara.

Before going into today's match against West Indies, Virat had scored 19,963 and was just 37 runs away from achieving this feat.&nbsp;

He took a single off Windies' skipper Jason Holder's delivery to reach the massive milestone.&nbsp;

Kohli reached the 20,000-run mark in 417 and broke the record of India's Sachin Tendulkar and West Indies' Brian Lara, as the joint holders achieved this feat in 453 innings.

The 30-year-old has played only 417 innings so far 224 in ODIs, 131 in Tests and 62 in T20Is.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-becomes-fastest-to-reach-11000-runs-mark-227716&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjR34n0xonjAhVDNI8KHewnCm4QFjAAegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0_8QvbooVnwL22jsUyWpIx">Virat Kohli</a> is the third highest run-getter for India, behind Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid.

Overall, only 11 batsmen have amassed more than 20,000 international runs.

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Mt. 20k scaled! <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> becomes the quickest batsman to make 20,000 international runs. He is the third Indian after <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sachin_rt</a> and Rahul Dravid to achieve this feat.😎👏🏾 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWC19</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KingKohli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KingKohli</a> <a href="https://t.co/s8mn9sgaap">pic.twitter.com/s8mn9sgaap</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1144204039737040898?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 27, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The run-machine Kohli is considered a modern-day great by cricketing experts and the pace at which he keeps breaking records is a testament to his ability.&nbsp;

Indian captain Virat Kohli became the fastest batsman to cross the 20,000 international runs leaving behind legends Sachin Tendulkar and Brian Lara. Before going into today's match against West Indies, Virat had scored 19,963 and was just 37 runs away from achieving this feat.

Indian captain Virat Kohli became the fastest batsman to cross the 20,000 international runs leaving behind legends Sachin Tendulkar and Brian Lara. Before going into today's match against West Indies, Virat had scored 19,963 and was just 37 runs away from achieving this feat. He took a single off Windies' skipper Jason Holder's delivery to reach the massive milestone. Kohli reached the 20,000-run mark in 417 and broke the record of India's Sachin Tendulkar and West Indies' Brian Lara, as the joint holders achieved this feat in 453 innings. The 30-year-old has played only 417 innings so far 224 in ODIs, 131 in Tests and 62 in T20Is. Virat Kohli is the third highest run-getter for India, behind Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid. Overall, only 11 batsmen have amassed more than 20,000 international runs. Mt. 20k scaled! @imVkohli becomes the quickest batsman to make 20,000 international runs. He is the third Indian after @sachin_rt and Rahul Dravid to achieve this feat.😎👏🏾 #TeamIndia #CWC19 #KingKohli pic.twitter.com/s8mn9sgaap — BCCI (@BCCI) June 27, 2019 × The run-machine Kohli is considered a modern-day great by cricketing experts and the pace at which he keeps breaking records is a testament to his ability.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli becomes fastest to cross 20,000 international runs

Yuvraj Singh announced retirement from international cricket on June 10 but India's star&nbsp;opener Rohit Sharma said that middle-order batsman deserved a better send-off.&nbsp;

"I have decided to move on. Cricket has given me everything and that's why I am standing here," he said after being reduced to tears by a video of the highlights of his career.&nbsp;

Rohit praised&nbsp;<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/its-time-to-say-goodbye-yuvraj-singh-announces-retirement-from-international-cricket-225902&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwid39m27uDiAhVh7nMBHfBgCNcQFjAAegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3ehlg-RffipHQqURIS8lB_">Yuvraj Singh's</a> roller-coaster career and wrote, "You don't know what you got till its gone. Love you brotherman. You deserved a better send-off."

Yuvraj played 40 Tests, 304 ODIs and 58 T20Is for India.&nbsp;

He put together 1900 runs in the longest format, and 8701 in the one-dayers, the format in which he enjoyed the most success.&nbsp;

His one-day runs tally places him 22nd in the overall list, and seventh among Indians.

He is among the Indian greats who did not get a farewell game after contemporaries Virender Sehwag, Rahul Dravid, VVS Laxman and Gautam Gambhir.

After he announced his retirement in Mumbai on Monday, <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-fraternity-reacts-as-yuvraj-singh-hangs-up-his-boots-225964&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwid39m27uDiAhVh7nMBHfBgCNcQFjABegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1IiAYfaujGxklk83Zi85Ph">Yuvraj </a>revealed that he was promised a farewell game by the BCCI provided he failed the 'Yo-Yo' fitness test.

However, he passed it and the swansong never happened.

"Mujhe bola gaya tha agar aapse 'Yo-Yo' test pass nahi hota toh aap retirement match khel sakate ho (I was told that if you are not able to pass the 'Yo-Yo' test, I would get a farewell game)," the 37-year-old said at an emotional press conference to announce his decision to quit international cricket to pursue a freelance T20 career internationally.

"I did not tell anyone in BCCI that I have to play the last match. Agar main accha tha, potential tha toh main ground pe se chale jaata. (If I was good enough, I would have retired from the ground). Aur mujhe is tarha ki cricket khelna pasand nahi hai, ki mujhe ek match chahiye (I don't like to ask for a game, I have never played the game with that mindset)," he said.&nbsp;

"Toh maine us time bola ki mujhe retirement match nahi chahiye, 'Yo-Yo' test pass nahi hoga toh main chup chhap ghar chale jayunga? 'Yo-Yo' test pass kiya and then rest is not my call," <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/photos/yuvraj-singh-a-journey-of-ups-and-downs-226051&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwid39m27uDiAhVh7nMBHfBgCNcQFjADegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0A19ZugUhOUryCTmGfOqf2">Yuvraj&nbsp;</a>said.

&nbsp;The 37-year-old, who announced his retirement here after almost 17 years of international cricket, last played for India in June 2017.

Yuvraj Singh announced retirement from international cricket on June 10 but India's star opener Rohit Sharma said that middle-order batsman deserved a better send-off.

Yuvraj Singh announced retirement from international cricket on June 10 but India's star opener Rohit Sharma said that middle-order batsman deserved a better send-off. "I have decided to move on. Cricket has given me everything and that's why I am standing here," he said after being reduced to tears by a video of the highlights of his career. Rohit praised Yuvraj Singh's roller-coaster career and wrote, "You don't know what you got till its gone. Love you brotherman. You deserved a better send-off." Yuvraj played 40 Tests, 304 ODIs and 58 T20Is for India. He put together 1900 runs in the longest format, and 8701 in the one-dayers, the format in which he enjoyed the most success. His one-day runs tally places him 22nd in the overall list, and seventh among Indians. He is among the Indian greats who did not get a farewell game after contemporaries Virender Sehwag, Rahul Dravid, VVS Laxman and Gautam Gambhir. After he announced his retirement in Mumbai on Monday, Yuvraj revealed that he was promised a farewell game by the BCCI provided he failed the 'Yo-Yo' fitness test. However, he passed it and the swansong never happened. "Mujhe bola gaya tha agar aapse 'Yo-Yo' test pass nahi hota toh aap retirement match khel sakate ho (I was told that if you are not able to pass the 'Yo-Yo' test, I would get a farewell game)," the 37-year-old said at an emotional press conference to announce his decision to quit international cricket to pursue a freelance T20 career internationally. "I did not tell anyone in BCCI that I have to play the last match. Agar main accha tha, potential tha toh main ground pe se chale jaata. (If I was good enough, I would have retired from the ground). Aur mujhe is tarha ki cricket khelna pasand nahi hai, ki mujhe ek match chahiye (I don't like to ask for a game, I have never played the game with that mindset)," he said. "Toh maine us time bola ki mujhe retirement match nahi chahiye, 'Yo-Yo' test pass nahi hoga toh main chup chhap ghar chale jayunga? 'Yo-Yo' test pass kiya and then rest is not my call," Yuvraj said. The 37-year-old, who announced his retirement here after almost 17 years of international cricket, last played for India in June 2017.

Yuvraj Singh deserved a better farewell, says India vice-captain Rohit Sharma

Former cricketer Rahul Dravid will not be able to cast his vote in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/elections">India's general election</a> as his name has been deleted from the voters' list because Dravid had not signed and submitted Form 6 on time.&nbsp;

The Form-6 application is filled for Inclusion of a name in the electoral roll for the first time voter or on shifting from one constituency to another.&nbsp;

Dravid moved out from his paternal home in Indira Nagar, which falls in Bangalore Central parliamentary constituency, but failed to submit the application for transfer of constituency before the deadline.&nbsp;

Dravid was Karnataka's election icon during the 2018 Assemble Election and his appeal was 'Cast your vote. Make democracy win'.&nbsp;

The officials said that his name could not be added as he had not signed and submitted Form 6 on time.&nbsp;

Bangalore Central, Bangalore North and Bangalore South vote on April 18.&nbsp;

Former cricketer Rahul Dravid will not be able to cast his vote in India's general election as his name has been deleted from the voters' list because Dravid had not signed and submitted Form 6 on time.

Former cricketer Rahul Dravid will not be able to cast his vote in India's general election as his name has been deleted from the voters' list because Dravid had not signed and submitted Form 6 on time. The Form-6 application is filled for Inclusion of a name in the electoral roll for the first time voter or on shifting from one constituency to another. Dravid moved out from his paternal home in Indira Nagar, which falls in Bangalore Central parliamentary constituency, but failed to submit the application for transfer of constituency before the deadline. Dravid was Karnataka's election icon during the 2018 Assemble Election and his appeal was 'Cast your vote. Make democracy win'. The officials said that his name could not be added as he had not signed and submitted Form 6 on time. Bangalore Central, Bangalore North and Bangalore South vote on April 18.

Lok Sabha polls: Cricketer Rahul Dravid won't be able to vote this general elections, here's why

Former Indian cricketer Rahul Dravid on Saturday attended the Barcelona vs Atletico Madrid La Liga match at Camp Nou and said that to experience the atmosphere is absolutely electric.&nbsp;

In a video posted by Barcelona's official website, Dravid said, "It's incredible, it's a huge honour, it's one of the things I've always wanted to do, come to Camp Nou and watch a football match. To be here and experience the atmosphere, it's absolutely electric."

Barcelona closed in on the La Liga title after beating 10-man Atletico Madrid 2-0 as late strikes by Luis Suarez and Lionel Messi gave the Catalans an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/luis-suarez-and-lionel-messi-late-show-sinks-10-man-atletico-madrid-208496">11-point lead</a> at the top of the table.&nbsp;

Dravid gave special mention to Barca's great Messi and his skills. He said, "To be able to watch players like Messi and Suarez play live, it's fantastic for me and my family. Thanks to Barcelona FC for the hospitality, it’s been excellent."&nbsp;

He further added, "He's an absolute genius. It's incredible to watch what he does and to watch him live… One thing to see with Messi is how fantastic he is with the ball but it is incredible to see how good he is without the ball and how he is able to find spaces. I don’t think there's been a better player than him ever. It's fantastic to watch him live."&nbsp;

Dravid, who is popular a "The Wall" for his brilliant defensive batting also talked about popularity of cricket in India. &nbsp;He said, "Cricket is a different game. We have great atmosphere and great crowd in the IPL and a lot of Test matches as well."

"Cricket is the No.1 sport in India but football is catching up very quickly. The ISL, the new league there since the last few years, Indian football is catching up but yeah, this was a lovely atmosphere to watch. Similar to some of the IPL games that we have," Dravid said.&nbsp;

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🇮🇳😁 Rahul Dravid, it was a pleasure greeting you at Camp Nou! We hope you enjoyed our victory 👏 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bar%C3%A7aAtleti?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BarçaAtleti</a> <a href="https://t.co/WENyIUQ8C8">https://t.co/WENyIUQ8C8</a>
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/1114907331018547201?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Dravid also said that he is looking forward to Barcelona's performance in UEFA Champions League quarter-final matches against Manchester United.&nbsp;

Former Indian cricketer Rahul Dravid on Saturday attended the Barcelona vs Atletico Madrid La Liga match at Camp Nou and said that to experience the atmosphere is absolutely electric.

Former Indian cricketer Rahul Dravid on Saturday attended the Barcelona vs Atletico Madrid La Liga match at Camp Nou and said that to experience the atmosphere is absolutely electric. In a video posted by Barcelona's official website, Dravid said, "It's incredible, it's a huge honour, it's one of the things I've always wanted to do, come to Camp Nou and watch a football match. To be here and experience the atmosphere, it's absolutely electric." Barcelona closed in on the La Liga title after beating 10-man Atletico Madrid 2-0 as late strikes by Luis Suarez and Lionel Messi gave the Catalans an 11-point lead at the top of the table. Dravid gave special mention to Barca's great Messi and his skills. He said, "To be able to watch players like Messi and Suarez play live, it's fantastic for me and my family. Thanks to Barcelona FC for the hospitality, it’s been excellent." He further added, "He's an absolute genius. It's incredible to watch what he does and to watch him live… One thing to see with Messi is how fantastic he is with the ball but it is incredible to see how good he is without the ball and how he is able to find spaces. I don’t think there's been a better player than him ever. It's fantastic to watch him live." Dravid, who is popular a "The Wall" for his brilliant defensive batting also talked about popularity of cricket in India. He said, "Cricket is a different game. We have great atmosphere and great crowd in the IPL and a lot of Test matches as well." "Cricket is the No.1 sport in India but football is catching up very quickly. The ISL, the new league there since the last few years, Indian football is catching up but yeah, this was a lovely atmosphere to watch. Similar to some of the IPL games that we have," Dravid said. 🇮🇳😁 Rahul Dravid, it was a pleasure greeting you at Camp Nou! We hope you enjoyed our victory 👏 #BarçaAtleti https://t.co/WENyIUQ8C8 — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) April 7, 2019 × Dravid also said that he is looking forward to Barcelona's performance in UEFA Champions League quarter-final matches against Manchester United.

Lionel Messi is absolute genius, watching him live is fantastic, says Rahul Dravid

High-flying India crashed to a stunning 2-3 defeat against Australia at home in the bilateral ODI series and the setback should act as a warning sign for Virat Kohli and his men going into the upcoming World Cup as one of the favourites, feels former captain Rahul Dravid.

India led 2-0 in the five-match series but lost the last three to the reigning World Cup champions to lose an ODI series after a lengthy gap.

These games are the last of the 50-over competition for India going into the World Cup commencing on May 30 in England.

"I think there was a bit of notion that we are going walk there and win the World Cup easily. So it's a good thing that has happened. What it has (the outcome against Australia) reminded us is that we have to play the World Cup very, very well," said Dravid.

He was speaking at the launch of ESPNCricinfos new metrics, SuperStats, along with his former India teammate Sanjay Manjrekar here on Wednesday.

"In a way, I think its a good balancing factor. India has performed well in the last couple of years. There was a little bit of talk that we are almost going to walk in there and win the World Cup very easily because we are the No. 1 team and we have been dominating one-day cricket for the last couple of years," said India's current under 19 and A team coach.

"But I don't find anything strange from my perspective watching the series. I still feel that we are going to be one of the favourites. But it's going to be tough. It's going to be competitive," the cricket stalwart insisted.

Both Dravid and Manjrekar also answered queries on the much-talked-about workload factor in the IPL starting on March 23 for some key Indian players, who are expected to make the World Cup squad, such as Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya.

All-rounder Pandya is coming off a lower back injury layoff that forced him to miss matches in Australia as well as the home series against the same opponents at home.

"Most players are smart about these things. They know how to handle their body. I don't think the players would put their body on the line. I was reading Patrick Cummins (Australia pacer) saying that he feels better bowling when he is constantly playing rather than having rested and coming back," Dravid said.

"So to each player, it's different. There cannot be a blanket case that all should be rested. We have to just trust the players. They know what needs to be done," he opined.

Manjrekar was even more forthright and said the Cricket Board should not put pressure on IPL franchises to rest some players in view of the following World Cup.

"My views won't be appreciated. This is free enterprise. IPL is capitalism at its best. I don't think there should be any outside interference. It should be up to the franchises. Don't think there should be pressure (on IPL franchises) from the Cricket Board (BCCI) (to rest some players)," the former Test batsman turned TV commentator remarked.

Both also talked about the numbers game in cricket.

While welcoming the new parameters launched by the cricket website which he felt would be of some help to coaches, Dravid said, "numbers are not everything but at the same time you cannot ignore numbers".

"Numbers can't quantify whether someone is not feeling up for it on that particular day. There's a mix of both," is how he put it.&nbsp;

High-flying India crashed to a stunning 2-3 defeat against Australia at home in the bilateral ODI series and the setback should act as a warning sign for Virat Kohli and his men going into the upcoming World Cup as one of the favourites, feels former captain Rahul Dravid.

High-flying India crashed to a stunning 2-3 defeat against Australia at home in the bilateral ODI series and the setback should act as a warning sign for Virat Kohli and his men going into the upcoming World Cup as one of the favourites, feels former captain Rahul Dravid. India led 2-0 in the five-match series but lost the last three to the reigning World Cup champions to lose an ODI series after a lengthy gap. These games are the last of the 50-over competition for India going into the World Cup commencing on May 30 in England. "I think there was a bit of notion that we are going walk there and win the World Cup easily. So it's a good thing that has happened. What it has (the outcome against Australia) reminded us is that we have to play the World Cup very, very well," said Dravid. He was speaking at the launch of ESPNCricinfos new metrics, SuperStats, along with his former India teammate Sanjay Manjrekar here on Wednesday. "In a way, I think its a good balancing factor. India has performed well in the last couple of years. There was a little bit of talk that we are almost going to walk in there and win the World Cup very easily because we are the No. 1 team and we have been dominating one-day cricket for the last couple of years," said India's current under 19 and A team coach. "But I don't find anything strange from my perspective watching the series. I still feel that we are going to be one of the favourites. But it's going to be tough. It's going to be competitive," the cricket stalwart insisted. Both Dravid and Manjrekar also answered queries on the much-talked-about workload factor in the IPL starting on March 23 for some key Indian players, who are expected to make the World Cup squad, such as Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya. All-rounder Pandya is coming off a lower back injury layoff that forced him to miss matches in Australia as well as the home series against the same opponents at home. "Most players are smart about these things. They know how to handle their body. I don't think the players would put their body on the line. I was reading Patrick Cummins (Australia pacer) saying that he feels better bowling when he is constantly playing rather than having rested and coming back," Dravid said. "So to each player, it's different. There cannot be a blanket case that all should be rested. We have to just trust the players. They know what needs to be done," he opined. Manjrekar was even more forthright and said the Cricket Board should not put pressure on IPL franchises to rest some players in view of the following World Cup. "My views won't be appreciated. This is free enterprise. IPL is capitalism at its best. I don't think there should be any outside interference. It should be up to the franchises. Don't think there should be pressure (on IPL franchises) from the Cricket Board (BCCI) (to rest some players)," the former Test batsman turned TV commentator remarked. Both also talked about the numbers game in cricket. While welcoming the new parameters launched by the cricket website which he felt would be of some help to coaches, Dravid said, "numbers are not everything but at the same time you cannot ignore numbers". "Numbers can't quantify whether someone is not feeling up for it on that particular day. There's a mix of both," is how he put it.

Defeat to Australia warning sign for India ahead of ICC World Cup: Rahul Dravid

Seven years into his retirement and former test stalwart Rahul Dravid is still making silent and important contribution for India, shaping the next generation of cricketers who will form the core of the team.

For a significant part of his 16-year test career, Dravid was the bulwark in India's star-studded batting lineup that also included Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly and VVS Laxman.

A classical batsman who built his game around a near-impregnable defence and an over-my-dead-body attitude, 'The Wall' was a purist's delight even though team mates often eclipsed his best efforts.

His 95 in his very first test innings was overshadowed by fellow debutant Ganguly's century in the 1996 match at Lord's. Three years later, Dravid hit 145 in a World Cup match against Sri Lanka but once again Ganguly's 183 was the talking point.

Dravid's 180 in the 2001 Kolkata test was crucial to India's stunning victory against Australia but still ended up being second fiddle to Laxman's epic 281.

Having quit international cricket with more than 24,000 runs against his name, Dravid has since taken charge of India's under-19 and A teams, overseeing the seamless transition of youngsters into the senior side.

Among his wards, Mayank Agarwal, Prithvi Shah and Hanuma Vihari have taken to test cricket like duck to water, all-rounder Vijay Shankar is staking World Cup claims, while Shubhman Gill broke into the ODI team in New Zealand.

"He's been a great mentor for us," Agarwal, who impressed on his maiden tour in Australia, told Reuters.

"We can always walk up to him, speak to him about our batting, about our thought process, the way we approach an innings or if there's any technical difficulty."

Shoehorned into the Indian side midway through the test series following an opening crisis, Agarwal impressed immediately with two 75-plus knocks in three innings.

The 28-year-old said Dravid helped him understand how to manage mental energy in the long format.

"We had a few chats about my game and he figured that part out," Agarwal added.

"He said 'to do well in test cricket, you need to manage your mental energy because you are up and about for all five days'. That's something we spoke about.

"Also we figured out things we can control in the middle and focus on doing them."

Lokesh Rahul is another beneficiary of Dravid's deep understanding of the game - accumulated over 164 tests and 344 ODIs - and batsmanship in particular.

Rahul, 26, was in crisis after a slump in form was followed by a brief suspension for inappropriate comments on a television chat show.

Sent home midway through the test series in Australia, Rahul joined the A team under Dravid and found his mojo back in the five matches against England Lions.

He has since looked his free-flowing self in the two Twenty20 matches against Australia, scoring 50 and 47, a turnaround he credited to the time he spent with Dravid.

"Fortunately, I got to play some India A games and some games where the pressure was a little less, so that I can focus on my skill and my technique," Rahul said last week.

"I spent a lot of time with Rahul Dravid, working on my game and chatting about cricket. He helped me a lot in the games I played for India A."

Seven years into his retirement and former test stalwart Rahul Dravid is still making silent and important contribution for India, shaping the next generation of cricketers who will form the core of the team.

Seven years into his retirement and former test stalwart Rahul Dravid is still making silent and important contribution for India, shaping the next generation of cricketers who will form the core of the team. For a significant part of his 16-year test career, Dravid was the bulwark in India's star-studded batting lineup that also included Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly and VVS Laxman. A classical batsman who built his game around a near-impregnable defence and an over-my-dead-body attitude, 'The Wall' was a purist's delight even though team mates often eclipsed his best efforts. His 95 in his very first test innings was overshadowed by fellow debutant Ganguly's century in the 1996 match at Lord's. Three years later, Dravid hit 145 in a World Cup match against Sri Lanka but once again Ganguly's 183 was the talking point. Dravid's 180 in the 2001 Kolkata test was crucial to India's stunning victory against Australia but still ended up being second fiddle to Laxman's epic 281. Having quit international cricket with more than 24,000 runs against his name, Dravid has since taken charge of India's under-19 and A teams, overseeing the seamless transition of youngsters into the senior side. Among his wards, Mayank Agarwal, Prithvi Shah and Hanuma Vihari have taken to test cricket like duck to water, all-rounder Vijay Shankar is staking World Cup claims, while Shubhman Gill broke into the ODI team in New Zealand. "He's been a great mentor for us," Agarwal, who impressed on his maiden tour in Australia, told Reuters. "We can always walk up to him, speak to him about our batting, about our thought process, the way we approach an innings or if there's any technical difficulty." Shoehorned into the Indian side midway through the test series following an opening crisis, Agarwal impressed immediately with two 75-plus knocks in three innings. The 28-year-old said Dravid helped him understand how to manage mental energy in the long format. "We had a few chats about my game and he figured that part out," Agarwal added. "He said 'to do well in test cricket, you need to manage your mental energy because you are up and about for all five days'. That's something we spoke about. "Also we figured out things we can control in the middle and focus on doing them." Lokesh Rahul is another beneficiary of Dravid's deep understanding of the game - accumulated over 164 tests and 344 ODIs - and batsmanship in particular. Rahul, 26, was in crisis after a slump in form was followed by a brief suspension for inappropriate comments on a television chat show. Sent home midway through the test series in Australia, Rahul joined the A team under Dravid and found his mojo back in the five matches against England Lions. He has since looked his free-flowing self in the two Twenty20 matches against Australia, scoring 50 and 47, a turnaround he credited to the time he spent with Dravid. "Fortunately, I got to play some India A games and some games where the pressure was a little less, so that I can focus on my skill and my technique," Rahul said last week. "I spent a lot of time with Rahul Dravid, working on my game and chatting about cricket. He helped me a lot in the games I played for India A."

Rahul Dravid, a gift that keeps on giving Indian cricket

Australia coach Justin Langer said he has never seen a batsman concentrate as hard as India's Test star <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Cheteshwar+Pujara">Cheteshwar Pujara</a>, who beats even the great Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid in that aspect.&nbsp;

India won the four-match Test <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/historic-india-win-maiden-test-series-in-australia-188678">series 2-1 against Australia</a> with Pujara fetching the man of the series award with a total of 521 runs, including three centuries.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Speaking for the first time since the visiting team's maiden Test triumph on Australian soil, Langer said Pujara's concentration was a challenge for his bowlers.&nbsp;

"...I have never seen a batsman watch the ball as closely as he (Pujara) does, and that includes Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid. His concentration was a challenge. And we have to keep getting better just like him, all our batsmen and bowlers," Langer said.&nbsp;

Langer said his bowlers were stretched to the limit in the Test series, especially in Melbourne and Sydney.&nbsp;

"The guys are working very hard and they are going okay. The first innings in Melbourne and Sydney, honestly, sucked the life out of us because when you are in the field for two days, with only one spin bowler, that takes energy out of the group," he said ahead of ODI series starting Saturday here.&nbsp;

"We have the best spinner and three outstanding pace bowlers, against the outstanding Cheteshwar Pujara and Virat Kohli. So it takes some mental and physical energy out.&nbsp;

"There are new players and new staff for these three games, so that brings new energy to the group...," he added.&nbsp;

Australia's fast bowlers drew all-round criticism for failing to be as effective as India's pace battery but Langer backed them. The home team will be missing Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins in the ODI series, who have been rested to manage workloads.&nbsp;

"...They copped some pretty strong criticism throughout the series. But on two very flat wickets they kept running in hard and having a go and in this instance they were beaten by some a brilliant Indian side. We were beaten by a better side," he conceded.&nbsp;

Langer said the challenge is ever present for his side despite a change in format as the Indian ODI team is just as strong as the Test team. Both sides get down to their respective World Cup preparations with the upcoming series.&nbsp;

"After losing in 2001, in 2004 when we finally beat India in India at Nagpur, without doubt that was the Everest moment of my cricket career. So I am sure for most of the Indian players, especially Virat Kohli, it feels the same but when you are at the top, things are on the way down," he warned the visitors.&nbsp;

"They will be very buoyed and excited but we plan to fight for every thing. They have a good one-day team and we are up against it. Let's hope we are better than we were in the Test series," Langer said. 
The Australian coach felt his side has the talent but just needs to apply itself a bit more.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"It's the exciting thing, when you lose a series to India, its disappointing but it helps you get better and it's the same where we are at the moment.&nbsp;

"It is an unbelievable opportunity for us in Tests and ODI cricket to get better and we have to do that. We have the talent, now we have to look at the experience and ability, and aspire to do it," he said.&nbsp;

Australia have made an addition to their squad with batsman Ashton Turner coming in for Mitchell Marsh who is suffering from gastroenteritis and is not available for the first ODI.&nbsp;

Australia have recalled off-spinner Nathan Lyon to their ODI squad, and Langer said that this is a move keeping the World Cup in mind, but didn't commit if the hosts would play two spinners in the first match of the series itself.&nbsp;

"Lyon's record in white ball cricket is very good and he is the best spinner in the world. So it would be a waste of opportunity if we don't play him in white ball cricket particularly with the World Cup coming up.&nbsp;

"He is also a gun fieldsman. He is nice and fit, and a gun fielder. I cannot wait to see how he goes and he is also excited about it," he said.&nbsp; 
In addition, he spoke about Australia's World Cup preparations, and how they are close to finding the group of players in a bid to retain their 2015 title this summer.&nbsp;

"No one ever feels locked in. We have a clear plan how we will play our one-day cricket between now and the World Cup.&nbsp;

"It will be a great opportunity for Lyon and for our batsmen, as we have 10-15 games before the World Cup. So we will pick our (final) side after that. As always we will look to prepare well and win the World Cup," he said.&nbsp;

"In the next few months we will have a group of players together and build towards the World Cup, for which we have a clear idea of who we would like to have but we will have to wait," he signed off.

Australia coach Justin Langer said he has never seen a batsman concentrate as hard as India's Test star Cheteshwar Pujara, who beats even the great Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid in that aspect.

Australia coach Justin Langer said he has never seen a batsman concentrate as hard as India's Test star Cheteshwar Pujara, who beats even the great Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid in that aspect. India won the four-match Test series 2-1 against Australia with Pujara fetching the man of the series award with a total of 521 runs, including three centuries. Speaking for the first time since the visiting team's maiden Test triumph on Australian soil, Langer said Pujara's concentration was a challenge for his bowlers. "...I have never seen a batsman watch the ball as closely as he (Pujara) does, and that includes Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid. His concentration was a challenge. And we have to keep getting better just like him, all our batsmen and bowlers," Langer said. Langer said his bowlers were stretched to the limit in the Test series, especially in Melbourne and Sydney. "The guys are working very hard and they are going okay. The first innings in Melbourne and Sydney, honestly, sucked the life out of us because when you are in the field for two days, with only one spin bowler, that takes energy out of the group," he said ahead of ODI series starting Saturday here. "We have the best spinner and three outstanding pace bowlers, against the outstanding Cheteshwar Pujara and Virat Kohli. So it takes some mental and physical energy out. "There are new players and new staff for these three games, so that brings new energy to the group...," he added. Australia's fast bowlers drew all-round criticism for failing to be as effective as India's pace battery but Langer backed them. The home team will be missing Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins in the ODI series, who have been rested to manage workloads. "...They copped some pretty strong criticism throughout the series. But on two very flat wickets they kept running in hard and having a go and in this instance they were beaten by some a brilliant Indian side. We were beaten by a better side," he conceded. Langer said the challenge is ever present for his side despite a change in format as the Indian ODI team is just as strong as the Test team. Both sides get down to their respective World Cup preparations with the upcoming series. "After losing in 2001, in 2004 when we finally beat India in India at Nagpur, without doubt that was the Everest moment of my cricket career. So I am sure for most of the Indian players, especially Virat Kohli, it feels the same but when you are at the top, things are on the way down," he warned the visitors. "They will be very buoyed and excited but we plan to fight for every thing. They have a good one-day team and we are up against it. Let's hope we are better than we were in the Test series," Langer said. The Australian coach felt his side has the talent but just needs to apply itself a bit more. "It's the exciting thing, when you lose a series to India, its disappointing but it helps you get better and it's the same where we are at the moment. "It is an unbelievable opportunity for us in Tests and ODI cricket to get better and we have to do that. We have the talent, now we have to look at the experience and ability, and aspire to do it," he said. Australia have made an addition to their squad with batsman Ashton Turner coming in for Mitchell Marsh who is suffering from gastroenteritis and is not available for the first ODI. Australia have recalled off-spinner Nathan Lyon to their ODI squad, and Langer said that this is a move keeping the World Cup in mind, but didn't commit if the hosts would play two spinners in the first match of the series itself. "Lyon's record in white ball cricket is very good and he is the best spinner in the world. So it would be a waste of opportunity if we don't play him in white ball cricket particularly with the World Cup coming up. "He is also a gun fieldsman. He is nice and fit, and a gun fielder. I cannot wait to see how he goes and he is also excited about it," he said. In addition, he spoke about Australia's World Cup preparations, and how they are close to finding the group of players in a bid to retain their 2015 title this summer. "No one ever feels locked in. We have a clear plan how we will play our one-day cricket between now and the World Cup. "It will be a great opportunity for Lyon and for our batsmen, as we have 10-15 games before the World Cup. So we will pick our (final) side after that. As always we will look to prepare well and win the World Cup," he said. "In the next few months we will have a group of players together and build towards the World Cup, for which we have a clear idea of who we would like to have but we will have to wait," he signed off.

Cheteshwar Pujara's concentration better than Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid: Justin Langer

Former Indian batsman Rahul Dravid, who&nbsp;has played several match-winning and match-saving innings,&nbsp;has turned 46 on Friday. The former cricketers, his teammates and fans took to Twitter to&nbsp;wish Dravid, Happy Birthday.

In his illustrious career, Dravid has amassed 24,208 international runs, hit 48 centuries and 146 fifties.&nbsp;

Currently, he is the Overseas Batting Consultant for the Indian team and the head coach for the Under-19 and 'A' teams.

Dravid's former teammates Virender Sehwag and VVS Laxman led the birthday wishes for one of the greatest cricketers of all time.&nbsp;

The former Indian captain is popularly known as "Mr Dependable" and referred to as "The Wall" by fans and cricket followers. &nbsp;

Here are the birthday wishes for Rahul Dravid:

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Many more happy returns of the day to my dear friend Rahul. I wish him all the happiness and love and hope that he continues serving Indian Cricket and continues to inspire not just budding cricketers but the youth of the country. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HappyBirthdayRahulDravid?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HappyBirthdayRahulDravid</a> <a href="https://t.co/fzsQcy5D5I">pic.twitter.com/fzsQcy5D5I</a>
— VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) <a href="https://twitter.com/VVSLaxman281/status/1083587804502859777?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Deewaron ke bhi kaan hote hain , is deewar ka bahut saaf Mann aur hriday bhi hai!( <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TheWall?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TheWall</a> too has ears, this one has a pure mind and a heart as well) 
A joy to have played with him and made so many wonderful memories together <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HappyBirthdayRahulDravid?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HappyBirthdayRahulDravid</a> ! <a href="https://t.co/eukPvSx0II">pic.twitter.com/eukPvSx0II</a>
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) <a href="https://twitter.com/virendersehwag/status/1083580160513839106?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2019</a></blockquote>
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24,208 international runs. 
48 centuries. 
146 fifties.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/U19CWC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#U19CWC</a> winning coach in 2018. 
 
Happy birthday to India's Wall, the legendary Rahul Dravid! 🇮🇳 <a href="https://t.co/mR5kFLqBXX">pic.twitter.com/mR5kFLqBXX</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1083544023405604864?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Wishing The Wall - Rahul Dravid a very Happy Birthday. His exploits in whites are well known but we thought we would relive one of his knocks in blue against Pakistan <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HappyBirthdayRahulDravid?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HappyBirthdayRahulDravid</a> <a href="https://t.co/gJ1sgt6Ird">pic.twitter.com/gJ1sgt6Ird</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1083599185578942464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Many many happy returns of the day to a terrific human being, role model and an inspiration for many youngsters in the country. One of the most likeable cricketers ever , <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HappyBirthdayRahulDravid?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HappyBirthdayRahulDravid</a> bhai ! <a href="https://t.co/V07D4Ci6A8">pic.twitter.com/V07D4Ci6A8</a>
— Mohammad Kaif (@MohammadKaif) <a href="https://twitter.com/MohammadKaif/status/1083575139973939200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Dravid&nbsp;was inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame and&nbsp;became only the fifth player from India to be named in the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame. Legendary opener Sunil Gavaskar presided over the formalities.&nbsp;

The ICC&nbsp;announced his induction into the Hall of Fame. Dravid joins an elite list that includes Bishan Singh Bedi, Kapil Dev, Gavaskar and Anil Kumble.

Former Indian batsman Rahul Dravid, who has played several match-winning and match-saving innings, has turned 46 on Friday. The former cricketers, his teammates and fans took to Twitter to wish Dravid, Happy Birthday.

Former Indian batsman Rahul Dravid, who has played several match-winning and match-saving innings, has turned 46 on Friday. The former cricketers, his teammates and fans took to Twitter to wish Dravid, Happy Birthday. In his illustrious career, Dravid has amassed 24,208 international runs, hit 48 centuries and 146 fifties. Currently, he is the Overseas Batting Consultant for the Indian team and the head coach for the Under-19 and 'A' teams. Dravid's former teammates Virender Sehwag and VVS Laxman led the birthday wishes for one of the greatest cricketers of all time. The former Indian captain is popularly known as "Mr Dependable" and referred to as "The Wall" by fans and cricket followers. Here are the birthday wishes for Rahul Dravid: Many more happy returns of the day to my dear friend Rahul. I wish him all the happiness and love and hope that he continues serving Indian Cricket and continues to inspire not just budding cricketers but the youth of the country. #HappyBirthdayRahulDravid pic.twitter.com/fzsQcy5D5I — VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281) January 11, 2019 × Deewaron ke bhi kaan hote hain , is deewar ka bahut saaf Mann aur hriday bhi hai!( #TheWall too has ears, this one has a pure mind and a heart as well) A joy to have played with him and made so many wonderful memories together #HappyBirthdayRahulDravid ! pic.twitter.com/eukPvSx0II — Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) January 11, 2019 × 24,208 international runs. 48 centuries. 146 fifties.#U19CWC winning coach in 2018. Happy birthday to India's Wall, the legendary Rahul Dravid! 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/mR5kFLqBXX — ICC (@ICC) January 11, 2019 × Wishing The Wall - Rahul Dravid a very Happy Birthday. His exploits in whites are well known but we thought we would relive one of his knocks in blue against Pakistan #HappyBirthdayRahulDravid pic.twitter.com/gJ1sgt6Ird — BCCI (@BCCI) January 11, 2019 × Many many happy returns of the day to a terrific human being, role model and an inspiration for many youngsters in the country. One of the most likeable cricketers ever , #HappyBirthdayRahulDravid bhai ! pic.twitter.com/V07D4Ci6A8 — Mohammad Kaif (@MohammadKaif) January 11, 2019 × Dravid was inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame and became only the fifth player from India to be named in the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame. Legendary opener Sunil Gavaskar presided over the formalities. The ICC announced his induction into the Hall of Fame. Dravid joins an elite list that includes Bishan Singh Bedi, Kapil Dev, Gavaskar and Anil Kumble.

VVS Laxman, Virender Sehwag wish Rahul Dravid on his 46th birthday

Indian skipper Virat Kohli on Thursday went past former captain Rahul Dravid’s long-standing record during his innings of 82 in the first innings of the third Test against Australia in Melbourne.&nbsp;

With the help of his latest half-century, Kohli surpassed Dravid to become highest-scoring Indian Test batsman on overseas soil in a calendar year.

Earlier, Dravid held the record for scoring 1137 runs in overseas Tests in 2002. Kohli now has 1138 runs to his name.

1138: Virat Kohli (2018)

1137: Rahul Dravid (2002)

1065: Mohinder Amarnath (1983)

Kohli missed out on a ton on the second day after he was dismissed by Mitchell Starc. Kohli tried to hit it for a six but was caught out in the deep by Aaron Finch.

Meanwhile, Kohli declared his side's inning for mammoth 443 runs to make the hosts bat for the remaining six overs of Day 2. Australia scored just eight runs in the last six overs they played today.&nbsp;

Openers Marcus Harris (5) and Aaron Finch (3) were at the crease at close of play.&nbsp;

Indian skipper Virat Kohli on Thursday went past former captain Rahul Dravid’s long-standing record during his innings of 82 in the first innings of the third Test against Australia in Melbourne.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli on Thursday went past former captain Rahul Dravid’s long-standing record during his innings of 82 in the first innings of the third Test against Australia in Melbourne. With the help of his latest half-century, Kohli surpassed Dravid to become highest-scoring Indian Test batsman on overseas soil in a calendar year. Earlier, Dravid held the record for scoring 1137 runs in overseas Tests in 2002. Kohli now has 1138 runs to his name. 1138: Virat Kohli (2018) 1137: Rahul Dravid (2002) 1065: Mohinder Amarnath (1983) Kohli missed out on a ton on the second day after he was dismissed by Mitchell Starc. Kohli tried to hit it for a six but was caught out in the deep by Aaron Finch. Meanwhile, Kohli declared his side's inning for mammoth 443 runs to make the hosts bat for the remaining six overs of Day 2. Australia scored just eight runs in the last six overs they played today. Openers Marcus Harris (5) and Aaron Finch (3) were at the crease at close of play.

IND vs AUS: Virat Kohli breaks Rahul Dravid's 16-year old record

Former India captain Rahul Dravid on Thursday was inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame at a brief function, before the start of the final ODI between India and the West Indies.

Dravid became only the fifth player from India to be named in the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame. Legendary opener Sunil Gavaskar presided over the formalities.&nbsp;

The ICC, on July 2, announced his induction into the Hall of Fame. Dravid joins an elite list that includes Bishan Singh Bedi, Kapil Dev, Gavaskar and Anil Kumble.

"It is a matter of great honour to be named by the ICC in the Cricket Hall of Fame. To find your name in a list of all-time greats across generations is something one only dreams of while setting out on a cricket career and the kind of recognition that would delight any player," Dravid was quoted as saying in an ICC media release after the induction.&nbsp;

Dravid aggregated 13,288 runs in 164 Tests with 36 centuries and 10,889 runs in 344 ODIs with 12 centuries, and was in 2004 named as the ICC Cricketer of the Year as well as the ICC Test Player of the Year.

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Former India captain Rahul Dravid on Thursday was inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame at a brief function, before the start of the final ODI between India and the West Indies.

Former India captain Rahul Dravid on Thursday was inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame at a brief function, before the start of the final ODI between India and the West Indies. Dravid became only the fifth player from India to be named in the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame. Legendary opener Sunil Gavaskar presided over the formalities. The ICC, on July 2, announced his induction into the Hall of Fame. Dravid joins an elite list that includes Bishan Singh Bedi, Kapil Dev, Gavaskar and Anil Kumble. "It is a matter of great honour to be named by the ICC in the Cricket Hall of Fame. To find your name in a list of all-time greats across generations is something one only dreams of while setting out on a cricket career and the kind of recognition that would delight any player," Dravid was quoted as saying in an ICC media release after the induction. Dravid aggregated 13,288 runs in 164 Tests with 36 centuries and 10,889 runs in 344 ODIs with 12 centuries, and was in 2004 named as the ICC Cricketer of the Year as well as the ICC Test Player of the Year.

Rahul Dravid inducted into ICC Hall of Fame

There is something in the way Justice Dhananjaya Y Chandrachud delivered his rulings last month that reminded me of Virender Sehwag. Now, it might be strange to compare a sitting Supreme Court judge with a hard-hitting batsman, but there was something in the manner the judge delivered his quotable verdicts that reminded one of the crackling shots on a cricket ground. 
 
From Aadhar to adultery, from human rights to the entry of women into the Sabarimala temple, there was plenty of stroke play in the mighty pen of the judge.

That reminded me of another public figure, the former Reserve Bank of India governor Raghuram Rajan, who often reminded me of Rahul Dravid. Both Chandrachud and Rajan are now darlings of middle-class liberals. However, apart from their smart looks and learned ways, there is plenty that distinguishes them, and the best way is to draw a parallel with Sehwag and Dravid, two admired cricketers with vastly varying styles. 
 
Rajan, like 'The Wall' that he is, has been a man of few words, much dignity, soft-spoken precision and strong character. You have to watch him closely to admire him. Chandrachud, on the other hand, was flamboyant in his glory, and if you don't mind, some of his strokes are way too risky -- even if they hit the ball out of the park. Much like those of Sehwag. Dissenting notes are to court verdicts what a lofted shot is in a cricket match: delight to watch but precarious all the same.

By placing personal liberty above the government's powers to curb fundamental rights in the Aadhaar and Bhima-Koregaon violence case, Chandrachud has been way ahead of his times. He quoted Canadian poet-singer Leonard Cohen to uphold the right to gay sex. His verdict on adultery extensively quotes feminist scholars.

In that sense, he reminded me of his father, Justice YV Chandrachud, who delivered a controversial verdict on maintenance for a divorced Muslim woman, Shah Bano, in 1985. Not only did the elder Chandrachud uphold payment of maintenance for Shah Bano and overruled the All India Muslim Personal Law Board, he also spoke of the need for a Uniform Civil Code, which is listed among directive principles of the Indian Constitution but not an obligatory law. The then Rajiv Gandhi government, which had a brute majority in parliament, simply overturned the judgment by changing the divorce law for Muslim women. I wonder if that was a case of judicial overreach that resulted in a legislative backlash.

The younger Chandrachud is being cited for how he overturned his own father's ruling regarding the decriminalisation of adultery under Section 497 of the Indian Penal Code. The son also overturned his father's verdict of privacy not being a fundamental right. However, like his father in the Shah Bano case, he seems to think well ahead of his times. My fear is that like in the Shah Bano case, an overzealous judge may unleash a backlash. Just as a good batsman should look at the field placings before playing a shot, a judge is perhaps wiser choosing his words carefully because the hard fact is that social and political realities have to be borne in mind to avoid the kind of backlash the Shah Bano verdict resulted in. It is true that we have come a long way since then to have an Ordinance passed to strike down the "triple talaq" divorce among Muslims. But then, the society seems ready for it now.

Are we ready for a similar show on adultery? Now, there are two parts to the verdict on the issue. One rightly dismantles the patriarchal provision under which the husband is made the authority to seek punishment or not if the wife has sexual relations outside of marriage. But the nuance here is that it may be treading on the sensitive ground when it concerns the sacred idea of fidelity in marriage in popular conversations. There have been enough WhatsApp jokes to suggest that the decriminalisation of adultery is being casually understood as a permission for infidelity. No sir, the verdict says adultery is not a crime. It does not say it is not an offence.

"It is commonly accepted that it is the man who is the seducer and not the woman," the elder Chandrachud had said in upholding the now discarded adultery law.&nbsp;

In contrast, Junior Chandrachud said: "It is common to find instances of working women, who take care of the home, get beaten up by their husbands, who don't earn. She wants a divorce. But the matter remains pending in court for years. If she looks for love, affection and solace in another man, can she be deprived of it?"

Now, there is nothing in the recent verdict's text that to me seems unfair, but we have had the chairperson of the Delhi Commission of Women, Swati Maliwal, saying the verdict had "given licence to married couples for adulterous relationships. What is the sanctity of marriage then?"

In the Sabarimala temple verdict that upheld the entry of women, DY Chandrachud said: "Merely because a deity has been granted limited rights as juristic persons under the statutory law does not mean that the deity necessarily has constitutional rights."&nbsp;

I am just wondering what that implies in a future hearing on the Ram temple in Ayodhya, which has thus far been seen as a property dispute in strictly judicial terms.

Overall, I do find Justice DY Chandrachud strong in his language of path-breaking justice, but unlike, say, Raghuram Rajan on bad loans and demonetisation, he errs on the side of stroke play rather than a soft expression of hard views. In the current political atmosphere of the country in which dissent passes for anti-national conduct and conservatism passes for culture, I sometimes feel a need for a Dravid-like understated precision over Sehwag-like shots. 
 
Not because Chandrachud is wrong but because in a complex socio-political environment, there is many a slip between the cup and the lip. Is there a right-wing way parliament can overturn the thoughts of Chandrachud Junior the way it reversed his father's ruling?

But then, Sehwag has had a great career, and there are fanboys and fangirls waiting for Justice Chandrachud to ascend the Chief Justice's chair. We have had a rock star RBI governor. Why not one at the Supreme Court as well?

(This article was originally published on Zee News. Read the <a href="http://zeenews.india.com/blogs/justice-dy-chandrachud-is-sehwag-of-supreme-court-but-does-he-need-to-be-dravid-instead-2145718.html">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

&nbsp;

There is something in the way Justice Dhananjaya Y Chandrachud delivered his rulings last month that reminded me of Virender Sehwag. Now, it might be strange to compare a sitting Supreme Court judge with a hard-hitting batsman, but there was something in the manner the judge delivered his quotable verdicts that reminded one of the crackling shots on a cricket ground.

There is something in the way Justice Dhananjaya Y Chandrachud delivered his rulings last month that reminded me of Virender Sehwag. Now, it might be strange to compare a sitting Supreme Court judge with a hard-hitting batsman, but there was something in the manner the judge delivered his quotable verdicts that reminded one of the crackling shots on a cricket ground. From Aadhar to adultery, from human rights to the entry of women into the Sabarimala temple, there was plenty of stroke play in the mighty pen of the judge. That reminded me of another public figure, the former Reserve Bank of India governor Raghuram Rajan, who often reminded me of Rahul Dravid. Both Chandrachud and Rajan are now darlings of middle-class liberals. However, apart from their smart looks and learned ways, there is plenty that distinguishes them, and the best way is to draw a parallel with Sehwag and Dravid, two admired cricketers with vastly varying styles. Rajan, like 'The Wall' that he is, has been a man of few words, much dignity, soft-spoken precision and strong character. You have to watch him closely to admire him. Chandrachud, on the other hand, was flamboyant in his glory, and if you don't mind, some of his strokes are way too risky -- even if they hit the ball out of the park. Much like those of Sehwag. Dissenting notes are to court verdicts what a lofted shot is in a cricket match: delight to watch but precarious all the same. By placing personal liberty above the government's powers to curb fundamental rights in the Aadhaar and Bhima-Koregaon violence case, Chandrachud has been way ahead of his times. He quoted Canadian poet-singer Leonard Cohen to uphold the right to gay sex. His verdict on adultery extensively quotes feminist scholars. In that sense, he reminded me of his father, Justice YV Chandrachud, who delivered a controversial verdict on maintenance for a divorced Muslim woman, Shah Bano, in 1985. Not only did the elder Chandrachud uphold payment of maintenance for Shah Bano and overruled the All India Muslim Personal Law Board, he also spoke of the need for a Uniform Civil Code, which is listed among directive principles of the Indian Constitution but not an obligatory law. The then Rajiv Gandhi government, which had a brute majority in parliament, simply overturned the judgment by changing the divorce law for Muslim women. I wonder if that was a case of judicial overreach that resulted in a legislative backlash. The younger Chandrachud is being cited for how he overturned his own father's ruling regarding the decriminalisation of adultery under Section 497 of the Indian Penal Code. The son also overturned his father's verdict of privacy not being a fundamental right. However, like his father in the Shah Bano case, he seems to think well ahead of his times. My fear is that like in the Shah Bano case, an overzealous judge may unleash a backlash. Just as a good batsman should look at the field placings before playing a shot, a judge is perhaps wiser choosing his words carefully because the hard fact is that social and political realities have to be borne in mind to avoid the kind of backlash the Shah Bano verdict resulted in. It is true that we have come a long way since then to have an Ordinance passed to strike down the "triple talaq" divorce among Muslims. But then, the society seems ready for it now. Are we ready for a similar show on adultery? Now, there are two parts to the verdict on the issue. One rightly dismantles the patriarchal provision under which the husband is made the authority to seek punishment or not if the wife has sexual relations outside of marriage. But the nuance here is that it may be treading on the sensitive ground when it concerns the sacred idea of fidelity in marriage in popular conversations. There have been enough WhatsApp jokes to suggest that the decriminalisation of adultery is being casually understood as a permission for infidelity. No sir, the verdict says adultery is not a crime. It does not say it is not an offence. "It is commonly accepted that it is the man who is the seducer and not the woman," the elder Chandrachud had said in upholding the now discarded adultery law. In contrast, Junior Chandrachud said: "It is common to find instances of working women, who take care of the home, get beaten up by their husbands, who don't earn. She wants a divorce. But the matter remains pending in court for years. If she looks for love, affection and solace in another man, can she be deprived of it?" Now, there is nothing in the recent verdict's text that to me seems unfair, but we have had the chairperson of the Delhi Commission of Women, Swati Maliwal, saying the verdict had "given licence to married couples for adulterous relationships. What is the sanctity of marriage then?" In the Sabarimala temple verdict that upheld the entry of women, DY Chandrachud said: "Merely because a deity has been granted limited rights as juristic persons under the statutory law does not mean that the deity necessarily has constitutional rights." I am just wondering what that implies in a future hearing on the Ram temple in Ayodhya, which has thus far been seen as a property dispute in strictly judicial terms. Overall, I do find Justice DY Chandrachud strong in his language of path-breaking justice, but unlike, say, Raghuram Rajan on bad loans and demonetisation, he errs on the side of stroke play rather than a soft expression of hard views. In the current political atmosphere of the country in which dissent passes for anti-national conduct and conservatism passes for culture, I sometimes feel a need for a Dravid-like understated precision over Sehwag-like shots. Not because Chandrachud is wrong but because in a complex socio-political environment, there is many a slip between the cup and the lip. Is there a right-wing way parliament can overturn the thoughts of Chandrachud Junior the way it reversed his father's ruling? But then, Sehwag has had a great career, and there are fanboys and fangirls waiting for Justice Chandrachud to ascend the Chief Justice's chair. We have had a rock star RBI governor. Why not one at the Supreme Court as well? (This article was originally published on Zee News. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Justice Chandrachud is Sehwag of Supreme Court, but does he need to be Dravid instead?

Rahul Dravid, the last captain to lead India to a series win in England, says the current side faced unusually tough conditions in the recently concluded five-match rubber and the batsmen must prepare better before embarking on the next English tour.&nbsp;

"Let's just be honest first. The conditions in England were not easy for batting. I think batsmen of both teams struggled. If you take out Virat Kohli from the equation, it was not an easy series for the batsmen. I have played in England quite a bit, the conditions can be tough but it is rare to find five Test matches which had conditions as tough as the one they found," Dravid said in response to a PTI query here on Friday.&nbsp;

"As I said, we need to look ahead. The next time we go there, we have to be better prepared for these kind of conditions and try and replicate conditions as best as we possibly we can. It was tough out there. Lets face it," said the Indian batting great at the launch of Manipal Hospitals' first branch in the national capital.&nbsp;

After guiding India to their first series win in England since 1986, Dravid stood out amongst the Indian batsmen on the tour four years later in 2011, scoring three hundreds even though the side was handed a 0-4 hammering by the hosts.&nbsp;

The most recent 1-4 series loss in England was India's third in a row with batsmen letting the team down innings after innings.&nbsp;

The performance left the Indian fans seething, and coach Ravi Shastri added fuel to the fire by calling the current team the best travelling side of the last 15-20 years, even though the results painted a different picture. India's lack of preparation ahead of the series was also heavily criticised.&nbsp;

Dravid, however, did not read much into Shastri's remark.&nbsp;

"I think the whole thing was a little bit blown out of proportion. I am not really interested in commenting on what Mr Shastri feels or he doesn't feel. For me the main thing is what have we learnt from this series?&nbsp;

"What are the lessons that we need to take forward next time we go there? It doesn't matter whether we are the best or not. These are irrelevant things for me," said the 45-year-old, who has 13,288 Test runs to his name.&nbsp;

"Tours like England happens once in three or four years and players who have been part of the series and even the coaching staff, they will be disappointed after losing because you never know what happens in four years time. We really had a good team this time, the bowling was exceptional but it still did not work out," said Dravid, who is now coaching India U-19 and A team.&nbsp;

He said India losing 1-4 was a case of missed opportunity.&nbsp;

"India surely had their moments. They played some very good cricket in what I thought were pretty difficult conditions, especially for the batsmen. They were competitive for the most part of the series but I am sure the team looks at it as an opportunity missed. They would feel, having played so well in certain parts of Test matches, they were not able to finish off games.&nbsp;

"Still there are some positives to take from the series. Our bowling and fielding, especially catching, went on very good but like I said the team would feel it had its chances and unfortunately it did not work out."

Talking about the ongoing Asia Cup in UAE, Dravid said India need to focus on all teams and not just Pakistan.&nbsp;

"Afghanistan is doing well, I don't know why we are only focusing on Pakistan. Bangladesh too are doing well. Afghanistan also are a force to reckon with. If I was in the team I would not just be focusing on Pakistan. We are playing very good white ball cricket but we have to be careful of other teams too," Dravid concluded.

Rahul Dravid, the last captain to lead India to a series win in England, says the current side faced unusually tough conditions in the recently concluded five-match rubber and the batsmen must prepare better before embarking on the next English tour.

Rahul Dravid, the last captain to lead India to a series win in England, says the current side faced unusually tough conditions in the recently concluded five-match rubber and the batsmen must prepare better before embarking on the next English tour. "Let's just be honest first. The conditions in England were not easy for batting. I think batsmen of both teams struggled. If you take out Virat Kohli from the equation, it was not an easy series for the batsmen. I have played in England quite a bit, the conditions can be tough but it is rare to find five Test matches which had conditions as tough as the one they found," Dravid said in response to a PTI query here on Friday. "As I said, we need to look ahead. The next time we go there, we have to be better prepared for these kind of conditions and try and replicate conditions as best as we possibly we can. It was tough out there. Lets face it," said the Indian batting great at the launch of Manipal Hospitals' first branch in the national capital. After guiding India to their first series win in England since 1986, Dravid stood out amongst the Indian batsmen on the tour four years later in 2011, scoring three hundreds even though the side was handed a 0-4 hammering by the hosts. The most recent 1-4 series loss in England was India's third in a row with batsmen letting the team down innings after innings. The performance left the Indian fans seething, and coach Ravi Shastri added fuel to the fire by calling the current team the best travelling side of the last 15-20 years, even though the results painted a different picture. India's lack of preparation ahead of the series was also heavily criticised. Dravid, however, did not read much into Shastri's remark. "I think the whole thing was a little bit blown out of proportion. I am not really interested in commenting on what Mr Shastri feels or he doesn't feel. For me the main thing is what have we learnt from this series? "What are the lessons that we need to take forward next time we go there? It doesn't matter whether we are the best or not. These are irrelevant things for me," said the 45-year-old, who has 13,288 Test runs to his name. "Tours like England happens once in three or four years and players who have been part of the series and even the coaching staff, they will be disappointed after losing because you never know what happens in four years time. We really had a good team this time, the bowling was exceptional but it still did not work out," said Dravid, who is now coaching India U-19 and A team. He said India losing 1-4 was a case of missed opportunity. "India surely had their moments. They played some very good cricket in what I thought were pretty difficult conditions, especially for the batsmen. They were competitive for the most part of the series but I am sure the team looks at it as an opportunity missed. They would feel, having played so well in certain parts of Test matches, they were not able to finish off games. "Still there are some positives to take from the series. Our bowling and fielding, especially catching, went on very good but like I said the team would feel it had its chances and unfortunately it did not work out." Talking about the ongoing Asia Cup in UAE, Dravid said India need to focus on all teams and not just Pakistan. "Afghanistan is doing well, I don't know why we are only focusing on Pakistan. Bangladesh too are doing well. Afghanistan also are a force to reckon with. If I was in the team I would not just be focusing on Pakistan. We are playing very good white ball cricket but we have to be careful of other teams too," Dravid concluded.

Batsmen have to be better prepared when they go to England next time: Rahul Dravid

State election icon and renowned cricketer Rahul Dravid and former India captain Anil Kumble cast their votes today.

Dravid voted from the Indira Nagar constituency and former team India coach urged people to exercise their voting rights.

So far, 24 per cent polling recorded till 11:00 AM in Karnataka.

Karnataka is voting today for electing its 15th Legislative Assembly after a fortnight-long bitter campaign by the Congress, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Janata Dal-Secular (JD-S). The vote count will take place on May &nbsp;15.&nbsp;

All eyes are on the southern state where Congress is trying hard to retain power, while the BJP is making all efforts to unseat the ruling party and grab power after losing at its hands five years ago. The polling across Karnataka in 223 of the 225-member Assembly will be held in a single phase.

So far, 24 per cent polling recorded till 11:00 AM in Karnataka

State election icon and renowned cricketer Rahul Dravid and former India captain Anil Kumble cast their votes today. Dravid voted from the Indira Nagar constituency and former team India coach urged people to exercise their voting rights. So far, 24 per cent polling recorded till 11:00 AM in Karnataka. Karnataka is voting today for electing its 15th Legislative Assembly after a fortnight-long bitter campaign by the Congress, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Janata Dal-Secular (JD-S). The vote count will take place on May 15. All eyes are on the southern state where Congress is trying hard to retain power, while the BJP is making all efforts to unseat the ruling party and grab power after losing at its hands five years ago. The polling across Karnataka in 223 of the 225-member Assembly will be held in a single phase.

Anil Kumble, Rahul Dravid cast vote and urge Bengalureans to exercise voting rights

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