Rahul Dravid and V.V.S. Laxman paid rich tributes to the Indian cricket fan, at a promotional event here on Wednesday, calling them ‘phenomenal’.
The two described how they too were once part of the ‘fan brigade.’ Dravid recalled the day he waited outside Sadanand Viswanath’s house in order to have a glimpse of the Ranji Trophy-winning Karnataka team.
On his part Laxman related an event wherein he shared the dressing room with his World Cup heroes Kapil Dev and Sunil Gavaskar at Jyoti Prasad’s benefit match and was thrilled as a fan.
Emotional Starting the fan chat, Dravid said: “I have memories of watching my heroes; So I have been a fan and supporter. When I became a cricketer, so many people wanted me to do well. Indian cricket fans are very emotional. They also support real cricket.
“The Indian team received phenomenal support during the 2011 World Cup. They lift your performance by nearly 25 per cent. Sunil Gavaskar was a big hero for me. I became a fan first listening to radio commentary with my father, who was a big fan of Gavaskar.’’
“I have been a fan of the 1983 World Cup legends. I was glued to the television. Indian cricket fans are all over the world. There was this Bharat Army in Adelaide. They help you perform. I try not to get disturbed by the noise levels. But the fans at the Eden Gardens cheered every stroke during the 376 run partnership between us and India won,” said Laxman.
Dravid also recalled the 2003 World Cup match against Pakistan at the Centurion. “Centurion was full of the tri-colour waving Indians. It was magical. Sachin gave a fantastic start and I wanted to get the job done, at least for the Indian fans, if not for us.
“Wherever we play overseas, we are at home, because the Indian cricket fan is everywhere. I want the Indian team to enjoy the tournament. And the fans should go there cheer the Indian team.’’
Laxman ended the conversation saying: “Play to tour potential, but the process is important. My advice to the Indian cricket fan is: be patient.”
