Learning lessons from Dravid

Rahul Dravid, the legendary Indian cricketer, known better as 'The Wall' has retired. Well, this was a rather sudden decision taken by the great batsman who has played the role of an anchor and  has successfully performed innumerable times for Team India.

Dravid is the second highest run getter in tests and  holds the world record for being the first (and only) non-wicketkeeper to take 200 catches in Test cricket.

But as these facts remain so solid in our minds, what we need to do is to learn from this gentleman.

I believe that there are three qualities in Dravid that we need to imbibe and follow in our lives.

1. When Dravid was asked what kept him moving ahead, his answer was so simple and quick. It was the passion for the game of Cricket that fuelled him up every time he went out to the middle.

Similarly, as students we need to have a passion for our studies so that we too can be successful like Dravid. Only with passion can we be one with the subjects we learn.

2. The amount of practice Dravid put day in and day out before every match was tremendous. He ensured that his body and mind were prepared to take up the challenge.

To work through the cycles of attention that are required for long, endurance innings, requires the ability to tune out everything but the ball, over and over again. And this is possible only through practice.

We too need to have such kind of practice before we take up our match - the professional exams!

The more we practice, the more confident we become and the better we perform in our exams.

3. And the last thing that I found fascinating about Dravid is his hunger for more and more success and glory. An undying spirit and mental toughness helped him focus and manage his attention, all the while continuing to play with positive intent.

We too need to have this 'hunger for more' instinct. Instead of being complacent on our past glory, we need to continue pursuing success and excellence in our lives.

Thus with  strong  and classic batting techniques, this true Ambassador of the gentleman's game has been the backbone for the Indian cricket team and

Amongst all of this he has managed to retain his humility and dignity, almost as if he is unaware of the magnitude of his batting exploits. Though he has retired from the cricket field, he would still remain fresh in our minds for years to come.