Former Indian cricketer and renowned coach Rahul Dravid made headlines once more when he stepped onto the cricket field alongside his younger son, Anvay, during the Sri Nassur Memorial Shield tournament held on February 22, 2025. This rare father-son moment took place at the SLS Kreedangana ground, as Dravid competed for the Vijaya Cricket Club against the Young Lions Club.
Rahul Dravid, widely celebrated for his steadfast batting style and respected nickname, "The Wall," last played professional cricket more than ten years ago. Now at 52, he donned his club's jersey and displayed his determination to play competitively. Coming out to bat at number six, Dravid formed a partnership with Anvay, showcasing their familial bond on the pitch.
Despite only scoring 10 runs off eight balls, Dravid's presence on the field excited fans and players alike. Anvay, on the other hand, proved to be the standout player of the match. The 16-year-old wicketkeeper-batter scored 58 runs from 60 deliveries, including eight boundaries. Together, they managed to stitch up 17 runs for the fifth wicket but could not sustain their innings for long. Notably, Swapnil Yelave starred for the Vijaya Cricket Club as he smashed 107 runs off just 50 balls during the same match, helping his team reach a total of 345 runs.
Rahul Dravid's involvement with local cricket isn't just limited to his appearance on the field. His elder son, Samit, is also following his father's footsteps, having previously represented Karnataka at various age levels. He had notable performances including scoring 362 runs and taking 16 wickets during the Cooch Behar Trophy, which Karnataka clinched.
Trainings and performances aside, Anvay Dravid has also been shining bright within the cricket circuits. Recently, he emerged as the highest run-scorer for his state during the 2023-24 Vijay Merchant Trophy, accumulating 357 runs across five matches with four half-centuries to bolster his credentials as he progresses through the ranks.
This unique father-son outing has not gone unnoticed, embodying Rahul Dravid’s philosophy of giving back to cricket and motivating young players. Indeed, Dravid has always encouraged talent at the grassroots level, wanting future generations to flourish. RV Pradhan Kumar Urs, president of the Association of Cricket Umpires Karnataka, reflected on this sentiment, expressing gratitude for Dravid's participation: "It was very great opportunity. And thanks to KSCA, thanks to Dravid for coming and playing in the third division which made everyone... including the players, staff, coaches and spectators... enjoy the match.”
Even though this was just one match for Dravid, the significance of his participation resonates deeply, not just for his son and the team, but the entire cricket community. It reminds all involved of the camaraderie and joy the sport can inspire, especially when legends like Dravid choose to reconnect with their roots.
Looking forward, Rahul Dravid has also taken on the helm as the head coach of Rajasthan Royals for the Indian Premier League 2025. He recently stepped down as head coach of India following their successful T20 World Cup campaign, citing family commitments. His extensive experience with the Indian national team, where he guided them to the pinnacle of international cricket rankings, has positioned him ideally for the role at Rajasthan.
Dravid expressed enthusiasm about his return to the Royals, stating, "I am pleased to be returning to the franchise I have called 'home' for number of years. After the World Cup, I feel it's the ideal time for me to take on another challenge." His commitment to fostering young talent and enhancing the team's performance will surely benefit the squad as they aim to capture their second IPL title following their debut victory back in 2008.
To sum it up, Dravid’s recent engagement with both local club cricket alongside Anvay and his coaching role presents him as not just a cricketing legend but also as someone dedicated to uplifting the sport at all levels. His legacy continues to inspire, and his current and future endeavors are eagerly anticipated by fans and budding cricketers alike.