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Rahul Dravid: Timeless Steel
Rahul Dravid was probably one of the last classical Test match batsmen. The lynchpin of India’s Test match side through the 2000s, he combined technical virtuosity with a legendary work ethic and near-yogic powers of concentration, and epitomised an old-school guts-before-glory approach in an age increasingly defined by flashy strokeplay and low attention spans.
A collection of 30 pieces – new and previously published on ESPNcricinfo and its sister publications – this book features contributions from Dravid’s team-mates and peers, some of the finest cricket writers around, and interviews over the years with Dravid himself. It attempts to paint a picture of a cricketer who embodied the best traditions and values of the game, and a man who impressed the many people who came in contact with him.
Greg Chappell remembers the India captain he worked alongside. Ed Smith, who shared a dressing room with Dravid at Kent, writes of a thorough gentleman. Sanjay Bangar relives the splendour of Headingley 2002. Jarrod Kimber tells of how Dravid became the reason for him getting married. Mukul Kesavan analyses how his technique allows for more style than one might assume. Sidharth Monga puts Dravid’s captaincy under the spotlight. Rohit Brijnath looks back at the twin peaks of Adelaide 2003. Vijeeta Dravid gives us a look at her husband the perfectionist. Those and other articles make Timeless Steel as much a celebration of a colossal cricketer as of an exceptional human being.
A collection of 30 pieces – new and previously published on ESPNcricinfo and its sister publications – this book features contributions from Dravid’s team-mates and peers, some of the finest cricket writers around, and interviews over the years with Dravid himself. It attempts to paint a picture of a cricketer who embodied the best traditions and values of the game, and a man who impressed the many people who came in contact with him.
Greg Chappell remembers the India captain he worked alongside. Ed Smith, who shared a dressing room with Dravid at Kent, writes of a thorough gentleman. Sanjay Bangar relives the splendour of Headingley 2002. Jarrod Kimber tells of how Dravid became the reason for him getting married. Mukul Kesavan analyses how his technique allows for more style than one might assume. Sidharth Monga puts Dravid’s captaincy under the spotlight. Rohit Brijnath looks back at the twin peaks of Adelaide 2003. Vijeeta Dravid gives us a look at her husband the perfectionist. Those and other articles make Timeless Steel as much a celebration of a colossal cricketer as of an exceptional human being.
256 pages, Hardcover
First published June 4, 2012
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 197 reviews
November 17, 2021
We can all agree on a point that Rahul Dravid was a humble player on the field and outside the field too. He was a class batsman and probably the best test player of all time. His character is admirable. He became famous by the name of 'The Wall' and his determination on the ground justified his name.
India's tour of England in 2011 once James Anderson told us we are not afraid of the Indian team we are afraid of Rahul Dravid and we want him out as early as possible.
He is a man of character, responsibility and determination. Reading his story will always provide us with some beautiful memories to look back. He is the pride of our nation.
India's tour of England in 2011 once James Anderson told us we are not afraid of the Indian team we are afraid of Rahul Dravid and we want him out as early as possible.
He is a man of character, responsibility and determination. Reading his story will always provide us with some beautiful memories to look back. He is the pride of our nation.
March 30, 2019
Let me confess when I was about 13-14, I did not like Dravid much. I thought he was just a test batsman who cannot fit in the one-day side. Though I admired him. However, after the retirement of this master batsman, I almost cried! Rahul is like those gentlemen in the cricket who truly lived the spirit of this game. He is undoubtedly one of the best cricketers in the world. This book is more like 'an into his life' thing and is a nice collection of time-snapshots for those who want to know Dravid on and off the field.
November 30, 2015
I read cricinfo. I also like Dravid. And I mean both in the most politely understated way possible. If ever someone got into the online stalking business, they'd find that a cricinfo hits counter for me would have a daily average not too dissimilar to Dravid's, and for almost as long. Dravid is the cricketer I've liked the most (with Sachin, it's love, which is different) and I've gone through phases where I've voraciously searched and read everything to do with him (Google alerts, RSS feeds, the works). And then, along comes this book, which is made up mostly of the best of the cricinfo lot on Dravid, and complemented by new articles from some of my favourite cricket writers.
Nicely structured, it at once provides both an intimate and a complete picture about the man and the cricketer. Because of the anthological nature of the book, and the filtering from among the tens of really really good writing on the topic, we're essentially talking about a collection of, for the most part, truly great articles. That a couple may pale in direct comparison with the other articles in the book is more a reflection of the quality and richness of the collection.
The final retirement interview is a case study in its genre for both the interviewer and the interviewee. There is the unedited article of Vijeeta Dravid's, the unabridged Dravid interviews that even further illuminate his class and intelligence, and edited versions of gems previously published but now with that extra bit of hindsight. Siddharth Monga's amazing play-by-play account of the Kolkata 2001 innings took me back a decade and the brilliant dissection by Akash Chopra on Dravid's evolving technique is a masterpiece in its own right. The articles by juniors, coaches and peers give a peek into the competitor and the professional, and Samir Chopra's The Money Moment throws that bit of light on the steel behind the gentleman.
Definitely a keeper. The book, that is.
Nicely structured, it at once provides both an intimate and a complete picture about the man and the cricketer. Because of the anthological nature of the book, and the filtering from among the tens of really really good writing on the topic, we're essentially talking about a collection of, for the most part, truly great articles. That a couple may pale in direct comparison with the other articles in the book is more a reflection of the quality and richness of the collection.
The final retirement interview is a case study in its genre for both the interviewer and the interviewee. There is the unedited article of Vijeeta Dravid's, the unabridged Dravid interviews that even further illuminate his class and intelligence, and edited versions of gems previously published but now with that extra bit of hindsight. Siddharth Monga's amazing play-by-play account of the Kolkata 2001 innings took me back a decade and the brilliant dissection by Akash Chopra on Dravid's evolving technique is a masterpiece in its own right. The articles by juniors, coaches and peers give a peek into the competitor and the professional, and Samir Chopra's The Money Moment throws that bit of light on the steel behind the gentleman.
Definitely a keeper. The book, that is.
Read
January 25, 2020It is a collection of essays and interviews by writers of the website,cricinfo. I like Rahul Dravid,because he played cricket in the right spirit,unlike many other cricketers. His batting wasn't the most attractive to watch,but he had impeccable defence,and was known as "The Wall". He could bat seemingly forever,grinding down bowlers,and played some epic innings.
One interesting observation in the book,"The pace of his batting was immemorial,and you couldn't tell,if he had been batting for six minutes or six hours". And as he himself said,after watching Brian Laura's world record 400," For me to score 400,the match would have to go into a sixth day".
Two memories of Dravid stand out for me personally. Being bowled by a searing Shoaib Akhtar yorker at Calcutta in 1999 (followed next ball by Tendulkar),and then scoring that epic double hundred against the same Shoaib Akhtar,at Rawalpindi in 2004.
There are a lot of nice words for Dravid in the book. The tone is a bit too reverential,and that is one reason why I didn't find it very interesting.
One interesting observation in the book,"The pace of his batting was immemorial,and you couldn't tell,if he had been batting for six minutes or six hours". And as he himself said,after watching Brian Laura's world record 400," For me to score 400,the match would have to go into a sixth day".
Two memories of Dravid stand out for me personally. Being bowled by a searing Shoaib Akhtar yorker at Calcutta in 1999 (followed next ball by Tendulkar),and then scoring that epic double hundred against the same Shoaib Akhtar,at Rawalpindi in 2004.
There are a lot of nice words for Dravid in the book. The tone is a bit too reverential,and that is one reason why I didn't find it very interesting.
January 11, 2018
Edit: 11th Jan 2018
Just read few of my favorite articles (The ones from Sambit Bal, John Wright and Suresh Raina) from this book on his birthday and thought I should add something for this JAMMY of a guy :p So here it is...
“1st wicket fall and now my watch begins. It shall not end until the team reach safety. I shall hit no boundary, no sixes, offer no catch. I shall have no spotlights and win no glory. I shall defend and attack as per the team's need. I am the pain for the bowlers. I am the watcher of the ball. I am the one who play against the odds, the century that brings the hope, the partnership that breaks the opposition, the shield that guards the wickets on the pitch. I pledge my runs and centuries to Indian Cricket Team, for this inning and all the innings to come. I am not the man of the Night's Watch, I am THE WALL”
Happy Birthday Mr. Dependable, we all look and wish for a person like you in our lives :)
We will always miss you in WHITES :)
__________
No doubt he was the man of steel for Indian Cricket team. One of the most unselfish sportsmen ever, the one who never desired the spotlight and always put the team before him. The book is a collection of articles written over the period of time by well know cricketers (including few of his teammates) and sports journalists. These articles show how much respect he commands in cricketing world even among the arch-rivals. He can be an Ideal for every hardworking man. A must have book for all cricket lovers. The last line of his farewell speech sums up this man nice and crisp “I have failed at times, but I have never stopped trying. It is why I leave with sadness but also with pride.”
Just read few of my favorite articles (The ones from Sambit Bal, John Wright and Suresh Raina) from this book on his birthday and thought I should add something for this JAMMY of a guy :p So here it is...
“1st wicket fall and now my watch begins. It shall not end until the team reach safety. I shall hit no boundary, no sixes, offer no catch. I shall have no spotlights and win no glory. I shall defend and attack as per the team's need. I am the pain for the bowlers. I am the watcher of the ball. I am the one who play against the odds, the century that brings the hope, the partnership that breaks the opposition, the shield that guards the wickets on the pitch. I pledge my runs and centuries to Indian Cricket Team, for this inning and all the innings to come. I am not the man of the Night's Watch, I am THE WALL”
Happy Birthday Mr. Dependable, we all look and wish for a person like you in our lives :)
We will always miss you in WHITES :)
__________
No doubt he was the man of steel for Indian Cricket team. One of the most unselfish sportsmen ever, the one who never desired the spotlight and always put the team before him. The book is a collection of articles written over the period of time by well know cricketers (including few of his teammates) and sports journalists. These articles show how much respect he commands in cricketing world even among the arch-rivals. He can be an Ideal for every hardworking man. A must have book for all cricket lovers. The last line of his farewell speech sums up this man nice and crisp “I have failed at times, but I have never stopped trying. It is why I leave with sadness but also with pride.”
December 13, 2018
Very nice anthology. Being an avid follower of cricinfo, have read most of the articles and interviews before this book.
The selection is very nice - ranging from all the technical details of his craft, inspirational on improving oneself, journey through his ups and downs.
The way Dravid introspects is the biggest takeaway from this book.
The article by his wife, Vijeetha Dravid, was the jewel of this crown, giving out most details about his personality.
The selection is very nice - ranging from all the technical details of his craft, inspirational on improving oneself, journey through his ups and downs.
The way Dravid introspects is the biggest takeaway from this book.
The article by his wife, Vijeetha Dravid, was the jewel of this crown, giving out most details about his personality.
July 28, 2012
I am not sure if I will be able to do justice to the review as the book has done to the Great Wall of India. Rahul Dravid has always been an inspiration but the way this book has elaborated various aspects of his personality through his family, friends and colleagues is amazing.
He has been an epitome of perseverance but we have continuously read about his virtue so there is no need to repeat them all. But this book does not give a list of his qualities rather it shows how normal this was for Dravid, how constant he was irrespective of the circumstances or company.
"Sometimes it was difficult for me to decide who was better: Rahul Dravid the human being or Rahul Dravid the cricketer" : Fazal Khaleel
His capability to switch on and off on-field was extremely important in making him the cricketer he is and his capability to give equal importance to every one else's perspective and career made him the person he is today.
It was a pleasure to see him play.
He has been an epitome of perseverance but we have continuously read about his virtue so there is no need to repeat them all. But this book does not give a list of his qualities rather it shows how normal this was for Dravid, how constant he was irrespective of the circumstances or company.
"Sometimes it was difficult for me to decide who was better: Rahul Dravid the human being or Rahul Dravid the cricketer" : Fazal Khaleel
His capability to switch on and off on-field was extremely important in making him the cricketer he is and his capability to give equal importance to every one else's perspective and career made him the person he is today.
It was a pleasure to see him play.
Read
December 28, 2020Reading this book was like going back in time to the golden era of cricket and reminiscing my childhood (skipped school and homework any number of times to see him bat). It brought back so many precious memories. In a world where Sachin Tendulkar is cherished as the God of the gentleman's game, Rahul Dravid was always my favourite. Engrossing myself into meticulously cutting his photos from newspapers and gluing them in a notebook was one of my favourite hobbies. As a child, the techniques never mattered to me, and to this day, I can not put in words, what it was that drew me to his batting. I used to sit glued to the TV - for a long time, we did not have a TV and I use to watch at neighbour’s house - through hours of his batting and man I hated people who used to wish Rahul got out so they could watch Tendulkar bat. Surely, glorious drives are a delight to watch but I enjoyed the forward defense of Dravid to the same intensity. I remember Shoaib Akhtar used to take runup from the boundary only to have that lightening speed delivery to be defended by “The Wall”. That look on his face was out of this world.
The book helps you understand why he is regarded as the gentleman of the game and one of the most humble personality the game has ever seen. Having scored more than 24000 runs across both the formats, he hates people referring to him as ‘hero’. For someone who grew up watching him play, win for the team, laugh, and cry, it was hard when he announced his retirement and it felt as if some hole has been created and no matter what, it will always be there. The incidents showing his humbleness, sincerity, dedication to the game, dignity, grit are not as if Dravid is at his best, but it is simply Dravid himself! As a kid watching him play all his life under the shadow of the great Sachin Tendulkar, at times it hurt when instead of getting accolades he only received criticism. But I am okay with that now, for the man himself never played the game for the sake of fame and fortune. A special human being indeed! After reading the book, it is quite difficult for me to decide who was better: Rahul Dravid the cricketer or the human being.
The book helps you understand why he is regarded as the gentleman of the game and one of the most humble personality the game has ever seen. Having scored more than 24000 runs across both the formats, he hates people referring to him as ‘hero’. For someone who grew up watching him play, win for the team, laugh, and cry, it was hard when he announced his retirement and it felt as if some hole has been created and no matter what, it will always be there. The incidents showing his humbleness, sincerity, dedication to the game, dignity, grit are not as if Dravid is at his best, but it is simply Dravid himself! As a kid watching him play all his life under the shadow of the great Sachin Tendulkar, at times it hurt when instead of getting accolades he only received criticism. But I am okay with that now, for the man himself never played the game for the sake of fame and fortune. A special human being indeed! After reading the book, it is quite difficult for me to decide who was better: Rahul Dravid the cricketer or the human being.
May 27, 2013
A must-have for cricket and Dravid fans, just as a reminder of a great career. The book looks and feels lovely, and is more a collector's item than something to immerse yourself in, but it still has some lovely pieces to read.
Ed Smith's piece, from which the title of the book is taken, is particularly enjoyable. So is Vijeta Dravid's tribute to her husband. But the best in the book is still Dravid himself - the 2011 Bradman Oration is a moving, emotional dedication to the game he played and loved, to the fan whom he respected. I'm glad I have it in print, bound in a book.
I was in office when he retired, and me and a couple of friends tuned in to the retirement speech. I was in tears when it ended. To my generation, he was more than a player. He was an ideal, a standard to live up to, a hero we could always trust.
This is a book worthy of him, the greatest defensive batsman the world has ever seen. Thank you ESPN Cricinfo.
Ed Smith's piece, from which the title of the book is taken, is particularly enjoyable. So is Vijeta Dravid's tribute to her husband. But the best in the book is still Dravid himself - the 2011 Bradman Oration is a moving, emotional dedication to the game he played and loved, to the fan whom he respected. I'm glad I have it in print, bound in a book.
I was in office when he retired, and me and a couple of friends tuned in to the retirement speech. I was in tears when it ended. To my generation, he was more than a player. He was an ideal, a standard to live up to, a hero we could always trust.
This is a book worthy of him, the greatest defensive batsman the world has ever seen. Thank you ESPN Cricinfo.
December 18, 2014
To begin with, I've got a huge Dravid poster on one of the walls of my room so this review attains the property of a decorated ritual.
The book-I've no clear idea as to what makes a book great other than it's capability to keep the reader utterly engaged. if that's the parameter of a great book, then 'Timeless steel' is one of them. it had a meditative effect on me, taking me down memory lanes, from instances of the great Calcutta test to sublime image of me adjusting my stance exactly as Dravid's, head digging deep, attentive eyes, imitating the monk like concentration.
yes I'm biased, yes I'm opinionated, call whatever you may, but 5 stars for the book dedicated to the evergreen student of the cricketing world.
The book-I've no clear idea as to what makes a book great other than it's capability to keep the reader utterly engaged. if that's the parameter of a great book, then 'Timeless steel' is one of them. it had a meditative effect on me, taking me down memory lanes, from instances of the great Calcutta test to sublime image of me adjusting my stance exactly as Dravid's, head digging deep, attentive eyes, imitating the monk like concentration.
yes I'm biased, yes I'm opinionated, call whatever you may, but 5 stars for the book dedicated to the evergreen student of the cricketing world.
July 16, 2012
ideally former cricketers should fill their pages with anecdotes , journalists should try and bring in the nice words. Here sometimes the inverse happens, sometimes. But otherwise the book is very readable.
Best chapter is that on Dravid's Kolkata innings. Could almost relive the 3rd and 4th day
During the course of the book I realised that Dravid had actually retired. The hole would not be felt in the near future. I tried searching for India's next overseas tour, but it seems not until 2014 at least. Having supreme confidence on the young Indian brigade, I can assert that the hole will be felt on the first hour of India's next overseas tour.
Best chapter is that on Dravid's Kolkata innings. Could almost relive the 3rd and 4th day
During the course of the book I realised that Dravid had actually retired. The hole would not be felt in the near future. I tried searching for India's next overseas tour, but it seems not until 2014 at least. Having supreme confidence on the young Indian brigade, I can assert that the hole will be felt on the first hour of India's next overseas tour.
November 12, 2020
Rahul's journey is not only inspiring but also emotional. One of my favourite cricketers of all time... one of the four or five wonderful spirits of cricket. Sachin, Ganguli, Dravid, Laxman and Anil... love them all! This book, though no piece of literature can do justice to his talent, reminds us of many things that we have all witnessed with scant memories because of our young age. A chance to relive all those.
July 16, 2012
I had ordered the book after reading the review by Karunakar Dev in Flip kart . Dravid is one cricketer whom i respect the most . This book didnt let my expectations down . Class of Dravid written all over this book .. Fantastic read . Must read for every Indian .
To all countrymen, you’re blessed to be living in the era of Rahul Dravid. Show him your love. Order the book now.
To all countrymen, you’re blessed to be living in the era of Rahul Dravid. Show him your love. Order the book now.
January 17, 2021
Being a hardcore Rahul Dravid’s I kept this book aside for a long time, I felt the book may not live up to my expectations. The kind of feeling I had whenever Dravid came to bat; Despite being most consistent what if he failed to score. But now after completing the book with certainty I can say the book is worth spending time.
The book is mainly collection of articles published in cricinfo over a period of time. Some are excellent. But what I liked most is Dravid’s interview in this book. He has talked about mainly about cricket but he also touched upon various subjects. For anyone who is intrigued about life and team sports his interviews are pure gold.
Give it a try.
The book is mainly collection of articles published in cricinfo over a period of time. Some are excellent. But what I liked most is Dravid’s interview in this book. He has talked about mainly about cricket but he also touched upon various subjects. For anyone who is intrigued about life and team sports his interviews are pure gold.
Give it a try.
February 7, 2019
It's very easy to get carried away by whom the book praises than about what the book actually offers or the content/ style of the writing. But I am still fine to fall for that and say this was an excellent read.
To anyone who grew up idolizing Dravid, this will make you realize all over again the respect the man demanded and the way he carried himself throughout his illustrious career.
This book is a nostalgic ride which will remind you of all those moments of dignity, class and grit.
To anyone who grew up idolizing Dravid, this will make you realize all over again the respect the man demanded and the way he carried himself throughout his illustrious career.
This book is a nostalgic ride which will remind you of all those moments of dignity, class and grit.
October 20, 2021
India is a country starved of genuine role models and heroes; this is coupled with the fact that most of the population has little to its name besides life's grind. This makes us venerate cricketers disproportionately.
Rahul Dravid though is fully deserving of any praise that is heaped on him. Funny thing is, an achiever with the best of character traits who can but didn't necessarily inspire people in every field to achieve, was followed by an era of showmanship, needless aggression, focus on riches, vulgarity, and crudeness that the current Indian cricketers and IPL symbolise.
Rahul Dravid though is fully deserving of any praise that is heaped on him. Funny thing is, an achiever with the best of character traits who can but didn't necessarily inspire people in every field to achieve, was followed by an era of showmanship, needless aggression, focus on riches, vulgarity, and crudeness that the current Indian cricketers and IPL symbolise.
January 7, 2022
Feels great to finish a book I started more than 9 years ago (2012). It's quite wonderful, full of interesting insights and emotions. As such books always go, it's not completely devoid of cliches, even the pieces arguing against cliches include some cliches. But a great read overall.
August 25, 2020
Rahul Dravid – Timeless Steel is an anthology of interviews and essays by fellow cricketers, cricket writers and his wife Vijeeta Dravid.
Dravid, as a cricketer, has many records to his credits – especially on foreign grounds. Unfortunately, in a country where winning the World Cup (WC) is considered as the highest regard – after being eliminated in the first round from WC 2007, he is recognised as a captain who couldn’t win WC for India. And, naturally, his records are almost forgotten.
He was a great captain, dependable No.3 in the batting order, hard worker, receptive to constructive criticism, organised, focused, disciplined, and treated everyone irrespective of the ranks or hierarchy equally. He believed that if an old player is not performing well, he must pave way for the younger ones. He followed the same by announcing the retirement. He never believed in sportsperson being called “hero”. He had the ability to switch off from the cricket life when he is not in the cricket grounds. The essay by his wife Vijeeta gives Jammy’s personal life – supporting husband and affectionate father.
As a cricketer, he truly lived by his own words (or values):
“How it is played is as important for every member of every team, because every game we play leaves a footprint in cricket’s history. We must never forget that.”
I think his games left a footprint for me. Reading this anthology on him took me back to my childhood when I never really understood the game much (not that I understand it well now) but Appa used to explain few things here and there while watching a cricket match in the TV. Few things that I remember are – I never missed his batting (until and unless there was a power cut or the game was scheduled in the night) and also, read the sports section if there is any article on him (I don’t think I had kept any newspaper cuttings – otherwise my parents would have disowned me :P ). I think he is one of the few sportsperson for whom I had a fan girl moment and watched him play IPL match (for Rajasthan Royals) at Feroz Shah Kotla Stadium, New Delhi.
When I finished the book, this is the exact feeling I had:
"Sometimes it was difficult for me to decide who was better: Rahul Dravid the human being or Rahul Dravid the cricketer" ~Fazal Khaleel
He is called “The Wall”, “Mr. Dependable” and “the gentleman of the game” for a reason (or many reasons). Not sure if anyone can create the same impact now.
Dravid, as a cricketer, has many records to his credits – especially on foreign grounds. Unfortunately, in a country where winning the World Cup (WC) is considered as the highest regard – after being eliminated in the first round from WC 2007, he is recognised as a captain who couldn’t win WC for India. And, naturally, his records are almost forgotten.
He was a great captain, dependable No.3 in the batting order, hard worker, receptive to constructive criticism, organised, focused, disciplined, and treated everyone irrespective of the ranks or hierarchy equally. He believed that if an old player is not performing well, he must pave way for the younger ones. He followed the same by announcing the retirement. He never believed in sportsperson being called “hero”. He had the ability to switch off from the cricket life when he is not in the cricket grounds. The essay by his wife Vijeeta gives Jammy’s personal life – supporting husband and affectionate father.
As a cricketer, he truly lived by his own words (or values):
“How it is played is as important for every member of every team, because every game we play leaves a footprint in cricket’s history. We must never forget that.”
I think his games left a footprint for me. Reading this anthology on him took me back to my childhood when I never really understood the game much (not that I understand it well now) but Appa used to explain few things here and there while watching a cricket match in the TV. Few things that I remember are – I never missed his batting (until and unless there was a power cut or the game was scheduled in the night) and also, read the sports section if there is any article on him (I don’t think I had kept any newspaper cuttings – otherwise my parents would have disowned me :P ). I think he is one of the few sportsperson for whom I had a fan girl moment and watched him play IPL match (for Rajasthan Royals) at Feroz Shah Kotla Stadium, New Delhi.
When I finished the book, this is the exact feeling I had:
"Sometimes it was difficult for me to decide who was better: Rahul Dravid the human being or Rahul Dravid the cricketer" ~Fazal Khaleel
He is called “The Wall”, “Mr. Dependable” and “the gentleman of the game” for a reason (or many reasons). Not sure if anyone can create the same impact now.
September 16, 2012
As an ardent Rahul Dravid fan and cricinfo follower, reading this book was no real brainer. And it was good to see the awesome Sambit Bal spearhead the effort of bringing this book together. It is a fine book, a good looking one as well and the nice photos (almost) capture the iconic moments in his career.
Before reading the book, one would expect it to set itself apart from the countless stories published in newspapers on the eve of his retirement. But more than half of the book concentrated on saying stuff everyone already have heard or read or seen. And their approach wouldn't even work with someone with less familiarity either because they kept saying stuff like 'Dravid is disciplined' or 'Dravid is hard-working' in the first section without actually delving into the particulars. Rahul Bhattacharya was one exception though. And I don't understand why that buffoon of a Sanjay Manjrekar was allowed to write a piece in this book when he has relentlessly directed absurd criticism at Dravid throughout his final few years.
But the book picked itself in the second section with bunch of anecdotes by his contemporaries and I particularly enjoyed the one by Greg Chappell. It is indeed brave of anyone to formulate an approach in the middle of the match and go ahead and execute it. It would have been nice to have something written by someone from his earlier days. The piece by Karnataka cricketer is brief and abrupt and the one by a random guy going gaga over an handshake is ridiculous and funny as hell. The interviews and Bradman oratory speech were great especially the interview conducted during his retirement. My opinion of the book might not be objective as I read few of the articles earlier on Cricinfo before buying this book and my appetite was left short.
This might not be a great anthology but it multiplies your respect for the great cricketer tenfold. Go read it for the person who fought the tough fight for the team we all loved.
Before reading the book, one would expect it to set itself apart from the countless stories published in newspapers on the eve of his retirement. But more than half of the book concentrated on saying stuff everyone already have heard or read or seen. And their approach wouldn't even work with someone with less familiarity either because they kept saying stuff like 'Dravid is disciplined' or 'Dravid is hard-working' in the first section without actually delving into the particulars. Rahul Bhattacharya was one exception though. And I don't understand why that buffoon of a Sanjay Manjrekar was allowed to write a piece in this book when he has relentlessly directed absurd criticism at Dravid throughout his final few years.
But the book picked itself in the second section with bunch of anecdotes by his contemporaries and I particularly enjoyed the one by Greg Chappell. It is indeed brave of anyone to formulate an approach in the middle of the match and go ahead and execute it. It would have been nice to have something written by someone from his earlier days. The piece by Karnataka cricketer is brief and abrupt and the one by a random guy going gaga over an handshake is ridiculous and funny as hell. The interviews and Bradman oratory speech were great especially the interview conducted during his retirement. My opinion of the book might not be objective as I read few of the articles earlier on Cricinfo before buying this book and my appetite was left short.
This might not be a great anthology but it multiplies your respect for the great cricketer tenfold. Go read it for the person who fought the tough fight for the team we all loved.
October 15, 2012
I confess that I have never been a big Rahul Dravid fan. For me he played a very important role in the team but it is of coming at No. 3 and consistently giving the strike to the batsman at the other end, which worked the best in the era of Saurav and Sachin opening the innings.
In the later part of his career most of my admiration for him came because of the nostalgia and the stubbornness of hanging to a golden period(for me) of Indian cricket. They say, in the hindsight everything falls in place so well.
The reason of picking this book was the same. To relive the golden moments of the past and to learn about the man who when looked closely was indeed the only Mr. Dependable and Mr. Consistent.
The book is a collection of various articles, commentaries and interviews published in various media during his career and some very fine articles after his retirement.
The articles take a wide view from some of the best innings of Rahul Dravid to his life as a very private and disciplined cricketer.
The book is definitely a one time read and deserves to remain in the collection of a proud reader for a long long time.
Here's to the guy who was and is one of the few Gentlemen of the Gentlemen's game.
In the later part of his career most of my admiration for him came because of the nostalgia and the stubbornness of hanging to a golden period(for me) of Indian cricket. They say, in the hindsight everything falls in place so well.
The reason of picking this book was the same. To relive the golden moments of the past and to learn about the man who when looked closely was indeed the only Mr. Dependable and Mr. Consistent.
The book is a collection of various articles, commentaries and interviews published in various media during his career and some very fine articles after his retirement.
The articles take a wide view from some of the best innings of Rahul Dravid to his life as a very private and disciplined cricketer.
The book is definitely a one time read and deserves to remain in the collection of a proud reader for a long long time.
Here's to the guy who was and is one of the few Gentlemen of the Gentlemen's game.
September 3, 2017
Timeless Steel, an apt title, is a collection of articles on India’s Mr. Dependable. These articles have been written by team-mates and peers, some of the finest cricket writers around, and interviews over the years with the man himself.
As an ardent Dravid Fan, there was very less that I hadn’t read about, however what I really like about this book is the way this has been written is exactly synonymous to the quality he possessed – Simple, Humble yet having a class of its own.
The best one I liked was his own speech written for Bradman Oration. Only a man who is well read , has had an eye for detailing and observation could have written something like this. Though I had read this speech earlier, I guess one can never get bored of a good writing. As a fan and an avid reader I hope he writes more !
This surely is a one time read for everyone for the life lessons it imparts subtly.
As an ardent Dravid Fan, there was very less that I hadn’t read about, however what I really like about this book is the way this has been written is exactly synonymous to the quality he possessed – Simple, Humble yet having a class of its own.
The best one I liked was his own speech written for Bradman Oration. Only a man who is well read , has had an eye for detailing and observation could have written something like this. Though I had read this speech earlier, I guess one can never get bored of a good writing. As a fan and an avid reader I hope he writes more !
This surely is a one time read for everyone for the life lessons it imparts subtly.
October 28, 2015
Rahul Dravid the human being or Rahul Dravid the cricketer? The book is filled with excerpts from his personal and professional lives. The book, the life of Rahul Dravid make you introspect about how you want to live your life. Great sportsmen are respected only because of their sporting abilities but Rahul Dravid is equally respected as a person and the book aptly describes this.
Best thing about the book is that you can link the cricketing life of Rahul Dravid to any phase of life. Be it choosing your career, taking tough decisions in life, chasing your dreams, changing yourself/your style to achieve those dreams and much more.
According to Dravid, Andre Agassi's autobiography, OPEN, has everything - passion, drugs, girls, money, fame and that's the kind of stories one would want to read. But Timeless Steel is a fascinating read even without most of these elements.
Best thing about the book is that you can link the cricketing life of Rahul Dravid to any phase of life. Be it choosing your career, taking tough decisions in life, chasing your dreams, changing yourself/your style to achieve those dreams and much more.
According to Dravid, Andre Agassi's autobiography, OPEN, has everything - passion, drugs, girls, money, fame and that's the kind of stories one would want to read. But Timeless Steel is a fascinating read even without most of these elements.
November 2, 2016
Rahul Dravid, arguably the most respected cricketer of all times. There have been incidents far too many and people too many in number who have witnessed the greatness of this man on and off the field. He is a major professional goal and one of the very few people that I venerate. One star out of those five in my review come from just the fact that its all about Rahul Dravid. This book is a saga of this man, a collection of reminiscences from different people whose lives he touched with his humility, determination, and ethics. Since the articles are written not by writers but people coming from different professions, the language is easily comprehensible and the message conveyed quite effectively. It's a must-read for people of any profession who yearn for self-improvement.
February 3, 2019
Good read
This anthology gives us good information on his approach to cricket: lot of practice, meditation, hating to lose, resolve, dedication to sport and at the end of the day remembering that it's a game after all and that Dravid feels real heroes are scientists, doctors.
Feels surreal to live all those moments, I watched on TV several years ago, through the experiences of his peers, analysts. I was among those who took Sachin's side in heated debates but secretly relished Dravid's game too.
Watch out for the articles by Suresh Menon, Siddhartha Vaidyanathan, Sid Monga, Gillespie and Aakash Chopra.
I hoped to read more on his captaincy. Some articles were too short devoid of much thought suggesting maybe that they rushed into publishing.
This anthology gives us good information on his approach to cricket: lot of practice, meditation, hating to lose, resolve, dedication to sport and at the end of the day remembering that it's a game after all and that Dravid feels real heroes are scientists, doctors.
Feels surreal to live all those moments, I watched on TV several years ago, through the experiences of his peers, analysts. I was among those who took Sachin's side in heated debates but secretly relished Dravid's game too.
Watch out for the articles by Suresh Menon, Siddhartha Vaidyanathan, Sid Monga, Gillespie and Aakash Chopra.
I hoped to read more on his captaincy. Some articles were too short devoid of much thought suggesting maybe that they rushed into publishing.
January 26, 2019
An insightful book about the man who prefers to stay away from the limelight. Best part of the book is positioning of articles - it all adds up into final Sir. Don Bradman Oration award ceremony speech. Tells us so much about human being Rahul Dravid is rather than just cricket. Truly inspiration. If you are looking for complete understanding about Rahul Dravid's life and how his upbringing was or what made him what man he is - like other biographies - it is not the book! It will give you just a glimpse of him.
You can check out about Sir Donald Bradman Oration 2011 - by Rahul Dravid - here
Link - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aF2r-...
It is also worth spending time.
You can check out about Sir Donald Bradman Oration 2011 - by Rahul Dravid - here
Link - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aF2r-...
It is also worth spending time.
March 15, 2013
This was my first book on sport or any sportsmen, and being an ardent fan of Dravid this book was an obvious choice.
The book itself is a representation of Rahul Dravid ,it was as elaborate,flourishing and effortfull as his batting. My personal best part of the book was "The Bradman Oration",however it was "THE MAN" chapter of the book that kept me glued, and what could have been the best time to complete this book with Border-Gavaskar Cup the India-Australia Test match series going by my side.
Indeed this one is a must read for a sport loving person and a Dravid fan.
The book itself is a representation of Rahul Dravid ,it was as elaborate,flourishing and effortfull as his batting. My personal best part of the book was "The Bradman Oration",however it was "THE MAN" chapter of the book that kept me glued, and what could have been the best time to complete this book with Border-Gavaskar Cup the India-Australia Test match series going by my side.
Indeed this one is a must read for a sport loving person and a Dravid fan.
July 6, 2016
This book is a collected writing on India's Mr. Dependable by writers, coaches and some of the players whom he played with for the last 17 years ( it also includes an article from his wife)... The article covers some of the best innings of Rahul Dravid and also gives us few insights of his life ( which shows how disciplined he was ). This book is definitely a must read for all the cricket fans out there... It deserves to be in the collection of a proud reader for a long long time.. He indeed is a Gentleman of the Gentlemen's Game...
November 25, 2012
Although I had read most of the articles in the book on espncricinfo its nice to have them all at one place. The articles provide a lot of insights about the man that is Rahul Dravid . One of the greatest cricketers and a true gentleman .
June 7, 2015
A collection of great articles from excellent authors on India's best test player. Thoroughly enjoyed Dravid's great knocks again through their narration. A must read for all fellow adherent Rahul Dravid fans.
August 27, 2012
The book was an awesome read.Has all the makings of a best-seller.
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