I've been to Bangalore to watch the India vs New Zealand test match. Though it wasn't test cricket of supreme quality, thanks to some spirited performances by the Kiwis, I thoroughly enjoyed whatever keen contests that happened. From the pavilion stand, I watched Indians on the victory podium. And many more than that.
But the highlight of the last day was when Rahul Dravid quietly walked into our stand and sat couple of seats behind me. I was so engrossed in the game that I didn't really bother the hush behind me. When I finally did turn back, there he was! The gentleman! Or the highest compliment you can play to a man - he is "the complete man", going Raymond's way.
I almost had a minor heart attack watching my hero at a hand's distance. I could have chased him down to get an autograph, which he might have obliged without much fuss. I chose not to. An autograph might have helped boast about it in my circles. But no, that's not what I want. Having seen him up and close, I now wanna dream - openly and wildly - that I someday would catch up with him for coffee and over it, discuss tons and tons of books. Or may be, interview him for pustakam! Or may be loan from him the entire Cardus collection.(given he has them!)
Looking forward to that day, Rahul. Until then, thanks for everything!
But the highlight of the last day was when Rahul Dravid quietly walked into our stand and sat couple of seats behind me. I was so engrossed in the game that I didn't really bother the hush behind me. When I finally did turn back, there he was! The gentleman! Or the highest compliment you can play to a man - he is "the complete man", going Raymond's way.
I almost had a minor heart attack watching my hero at a hand's distance. I could have chased him down to get an autograph, which he might have obliged without much fuss. I chose not to. An autograph might have helped boast about it in my circles. But no, that's not what I want. Having seen him up and close, I now wanna dream - openly and wildly - that I someday would catch up with him for coffee and over it, discuss tons and tons of books. Or may be, interview him for pustakam! Or may be loan from him the entire Cardus collection.(given he has them!)
Looking forward to that day, Rahul. Until then, thanks for everything!
