The Wall's final ODI saw him play a knock that combined patience with aggression
On September 16, 2011, Rahul Dravid played his final One Day International match in Cardiff. It marked the end of an era for one of India's most steadfast cricketers. The match against England was a surprise, as Dravid hadn't played an ODI since 2009. Yet, with India's transition to a new generation of players, Dravid accepted this challenge. Though India had success leading up to this match, his return to the ODI team was more about guiding the young side during a challenging overseas tour.
India's tour of England in 2011 was disastrous. Despite his best efforts, including a century at Lord's, Dravid couldn't turn the tide as India suffered a 4-0 Test series defeat. It was a difficult time for a team that had recently won the World Cup. Injuries to crucial players further complicated the situation, but Dravid stood tall, fighting hard with his characteristic grit.
Rahul Dravid gets off the mark by carefully fending off a rising short ball // Picture Courtesy -- ESPN Cricinfo
Dravid's ODI and T20I comeback
With key players like Sachin Tendulkar and Yuvraj Singh unavailable, Dravid was called back for the ODI and T20I series. He had already shifted focus to Test cricket, but his dedication to the team saw him return to limited-overs cricket. In a surprising move, he announced his retirement from ODIs and T20Is even before the series concluded. The T20I match saw Dravid hit three consecutive sixes, a rare sight for a player known for his calm and patient approach, but India couldn't secure a win.
The Wall's final ODI saw him play a knock that combined patience with aggression. After the openers were dismissed at 57/2, he teamed up with a young Virat Kohli. India was in trouble, and Dravid's calm presence was crucial. He used his experience to guide the team, starting with a well-timed push to the covers that sped to the boundary. His signature cut shot soon followed, perfectly placed past the square. The pitch wasn't easy, but Dravid adjusted swiftly, finding gaps and running hard. His partnership with Kohli was vital, and despite not scoring a boundary for 20 overs, Dravid's strike rate stayed above 85.
Rahul Dravid raises his bat in appreciation after reaching his half-century in what would be his final ODI appearance // Picture Courtesy -- ESPN Cricinfo
Dravid brought up his half-century from 62 balls. He was content playing second fiddle, letting Kohli take the lead, but every now and then, Dravid would showcase his class. One particular chip over extra cover that bounced to the boundary was vintage Dravid. When Steve Finn delivered a short ball, Dravid responded with a powerful drive between mid-off and extra cover. It was the last boundary of his ODI career, and he held the pose for a moment, soaking it in.
Graeme Swann greets Rahul Dravid as the Indian stalwart heads off the field following his well-crafted 69 // Picture Courtesy -- ESPN Cricinfo
Two deliveries later, Dravid's final ODI innings came to an end. Attempting to sweep Graeme Swann, he was bowled, and with it, an illustrious chapter in Indian cricket closed. He walked off to a standing ovation, handshakes from the English players, and the recognition of a career well played. Dravid had faced 79 balls, scored a composed 69, and once again, put the team's needs above his own. His quiet determination and selflessness defined this match and his entire career. However, England chased 241 in 32.2 overs (D/L method) to win by six wickets, defeating India, who scored 304/6.
Mr. Dependable's contribution to ODI cricket goes beyond his statistics. He remains one of India's top run scorers with over 10,000 runs at a strike rate of nearly 72. Known for his gentlemanly conduct and unwavering focus, Dravid embodied the spirit of Indian cricket. His departure from the field that day left behind an irreplaceable void. As he walked off to applause, it wasn't just the end of a match, it was the end of an era.
