Sunil Gavaskar Urges Indian Government to Honour Rahul Dravid with Bharat Ratna

As a renowned Indian cricketer, Sunil Gavaskar has expressed his opinion that Rahul Dravid, the former Indian captain and current head coach, deserves the highest civilian honour, the Bharat Ratna, for his outstanding contributions to Indian cricket. Dravid recently concluded his two-and-a-half-year coaching stint with the Indian team, which saw the team achieve significant success, including winning the 2024 T20 World Cup in the West Indies and finishing as runners-up in the 2023 Men’s ODI World Cup and 2023 World Test Championship final.

Gavaskar, who is known for his impressive batting career, where he scored 24,177 runs in international cricket, praised Dravid’s achievements, stating that they have brought joy to the entire nation, transcending party lines, caste, creed, and communities. He emphasized that Dravid’s influence is not limited to a particular region or party, but has a broader impact on the country. Gavaskar wrote in his column for Mid-Day, “Dravid’s achievements have given joy across all party lines and across caste, creed, communities and brought untold happiness to the whole country. Surely, that deserves the highest accolade the country can give.”

Gavaskar also highlighted Dravid’s selfless attitude during his playing days, which has continued in his coaching career. He recalled how Dravid would often walk out to bat when an Indian wicket fell in the dying minutes of the day’s play, demonstrating his willingness to put the team’s interests above his own. This team-oriented attitude, according to Gavaskar, has rubbed off on the current Indian team, helping them to win several trophies and series.

Gavaskar also praised Dravid’s calmness, which has been instrumental in the team’s success in close games against Pakistan and South Africa. He concluded by saying that Dravid has left a lasting impact on Indian cricket, and his departure has left the nation with a sense of gratitude.

In his opinion, Gavaskar believes that the Bharat Ratna is a fitting recognition of Dravid’s achievements, and he urges the Indian government to confer the honour upon him. He wrote, “C’mon everybody, please join me in asking the Government to recognise one of the greatest sons of India. Bharat Ratna, Rahul Sharad Dravid. Sounds terrific, doesn’t it?”

Overall, Gavaskar’s opinion is that Dravid’s contributions to Indian cricket are unparalleled, and he deserves the highest recognition for his services to the nation.

Historical Context:

The Bharat Ratna is India’s highest civilian honor, established in 1954 by the Government of India. It is awarded to individuals who have made exceptional contributions in the fields of arts, literature, science, and public service. The award is conferred by the President of India and is considered the highest civilian honor in the country.

Rahul Dravid, a former Indian cricketer and current head coach, has had a remarkable career in Indian cricket. He has been instrumental in the team’s success, including winning the 2024 T20 World Cup and finishing as runners-up in the 2023 Men’s ODI World Cup and 2023 World Test Championship final.

Sunil Gavaskar, a renowned Indian cricketer, has been a vocal advocate for Dravid’s recognition. He has praised Dravid’s achievements, highlighting his selfless attitude, calmness, and team-oriented approach, which have been instrumental in the team’s success.

Summary in Bullet Points:

• Sunil Gavaskar urges the Indian government to confer the Bharat Ratna on Rahul Dravid for his outstanding contributions to Indian cricket. • Dravid has achieved significant success as a player and coach, including winning the 2024 T20 World Cup and finishing as runners-up in the 2023 Men’s ODI World Cup and 2023 World Test Championship final. • Gavaskar praises Dravid’s selfless attitude, calmness, and team-oriented approach, which have been instrumental in the team’s success. • Dravid’s achievements have brought joy to the entire nation, transcending party lines, caste, creed, and communities. • Gavaskar believes that Dravid’s contributions to Indian cricket are unparalleled and deserves the highest recognition for his services to the nation. • He urges the government to confer the Bharat Ratna on Dravid, considering his achievements and impact on Indian cricket.

Overall, Gavaskar’s opinion is that Dravid’s contributions to Indian cricket are exceptional, and he deserves the highest recognition for his services to the nation.