Dravid Junior stands tall even as the Wall’s return ends early

Bengaluru: The nondescript SLS Kreedangana in Bande Bommasandra, about 15 km from Bengaluru's CBD had a distinguished visitor on Saturday morning. Cricket legend Rahul Dravid wasn't there just for a casual visit to watch a match - he was there to play.

Though Dravid had once created quite a buzz by turning up for a KSCA league match shortly after his international retirement, this occasion, however, was even more special. The former India captain took the field alongside his younger son, Anvay Dravid, who, much like his father, bats in the middle order and keeps wickets.

As word of Dravid's "return to action" spread through social media and phone calls from those at the venue, cricket enthusiasts flocked to the ground for a glimpse of the legendary right-hander.

Though Dravid managed only 10 runs off eight balls, his presence on the field served a larger purpose. His team, Vijaya Cricket Club (Malur), had already secured a place in the semifinals of the KSCA Group I, III Division league for the Nassur Memorial Shield. By playing in the final league match against Young Lions Club, he aimed to ensure the team maintained its intensity, and an inspired VCC did just that, securing a 24-run victory in a high-scoring contest.

While Dravid's presence lifted the team’s spirits, it was his son Anvay who made a significant impact, scoring 58 off 60 balls with eight fours as VCC posted 345/7 in 50 overs. Dravid walked in at No. 6 after top-scorer Swapnil Yalave (107 off 50 balls, 12 fours, 4 sixes) was dismissed, joining Anvay in the middle. The father-son pair shared a 17-run stand before Anvay fell.

Dravid departed just two runs later, dismissed by off-spinner R Ullas, who was ecstatic to claim the "most prized scalp" of his career.

"I have been a fan of Rahul sir from a young age," said the 33-year-old, who had previously represented the state under-13 team and the Ballari franchise in the erstwhile KPL. "I have always had a dream of bowling to him, and, God willing, getting his wicket too. He may have retired long back but he still remains my most prized scalp. Still very excited (to get his wicket), don't know what to say," gushed the all-rounder, who had earlier contributed 56 off 47 balls at the top of the order during YLC's spirited chase.

Anvay's elder brother Samit, who has represented Karnataka in age-group tournaments and was picked in the India U-19 team against a visiting Australian side last year, is a pace-bowling all-rounder.