Rahul Dravid is not known for animated celebrations, but on Monday morning he decided to break away from the tradition, kissing the red cherry and signalling thumbs-up to spectators and dressing room after grabbing a sharp chance offered by Tim McIntosh off Zaheer Khan.
It was not just another catch. It was his 182nd catch in Test cricket, going one past Australian Mark Waugh for the highest number of catches -- barring wicketkeepers -- in the traditional format of the game. It was the rightful culmination of a journey that started in 1996 at Lord's, taking the catch of Nasser Hussain off Javagal Srinath. The number is also a tribute to his longevity and desire to excel in all parts of the game even after playing 134 Tests spanning 13 years.
Until the series against England late last year Dravid has gone through a torrid time for nearly six months with the big runs drying up, but the prolonged form-slump had little effect in his fielding. He has taken 14 catches in 10 Tests in 2007 and 20 from 15 in 2008, which is also an indirect testimony to Indian bowlers' improved performance in all conditions.
Dravid's catching at slips is not a visual marvel like younger Waugh neither does he possess the big palms of Matthew Hayden. But Dravid's fine technique, his way of standing at slips is as good as you get in any coaching manual, and sharp reflection, which is amazing for a 36-year old body, helps him to be in the perfect position for the aerial edges off both pacers and spinners.
Rewind your memory to the Adelaide Test in 2004 when he gobbled up an edge to dismiss Damien Martyn off Sachin Tendulkar at slips. Incidentally, Tendulkar is also brilliant at slips, and like Dravid, the Mumbaikar too relies on good technique to take the offerings.
"It is a great feeling for him. He has been there for more than 13 years. He has been outstanding as a batsman and in the slip cordon," Yuvraj Singh said at Monday's post-match press conference.
One who has always wished to be among the best, the latest achievement might have come as a great delight for Dravid. This might just be the inspiration, if he wants any extra, for him to etch some more tall deeds. Waiting for them Rahul!
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