Leading Ahead

When it comes to lead by example, Rahul Dravid is virtually as good as one can possibly get. He is by far the fittest of India cricketers in the recent past, keeping in mind the likes of Yuvraj Singh and Mohammad Kaif. The success and the regularity in which Rahul Dravid performed the wicket-keeper's role in One-Day Internationals, after Ajay Ratra's ordinary outings and prior to the unsuccessful experiment with Parthiv Patel, speak volumes for his dedication towards the team, and his adaptability, which is a testimony to his physical fitness, apart from his famed temperament. The way he has adapted to clinical handling the middle overs while batting in the ODIs, is phenomenal, as is a precedent for rash and nervy youngsters.