Hockey India announces 25,000 reward in post dated cheques for Dravid

Gursimran Khamba, Hindustan Times

Hockey India, the governing body for field hockey in India today announced a 25,000 Rs reward for Rahul Dravid for his service to the nation, to be paid through two post dated cheques of 12,500 each. A top HI official who refused to be named said, “Rahul Dravid has given a lot to the sport of cricket and indeed to the nation. Till date we use his example in coaching camps to train our lads in the virtues of patience and proper technique. Besides, footage of him batting in test matches was the only thing that put our boys to sleep despite them not having a bed, fans or mosquito repellant. It is only fair then that we honour him to the best of our ability.”

On being asked if Dravid might get offended at being rewarded with such a paltry amount, he said “No I don’t think the amount should be a problem. Rahul is used to being mistreated and undervalued by the BCCI, cricket team and the public at large. If anything he will appreciate the gesture behind the reward because that’s just how classy he is – not like one of these new 21 year old hot shots who think they’re gods gift to brands.”

KPS Gill, advisor to the IHF however, ridiculed this announcement. “First they offered 25,000 cash reward to each member of the hockey team despite them winning the Asia Cup. Now they’re offering this to Dravid? It is obvious they are only doing this to get tax concessions. Hum bhi apne time pe bahut karte the.”

Despite repeated attempts Rahul Dravid could not be reached for comments. His representatives said he was still recovering from the trauma of having to share a dressing room on his final ODI series with Ravindra Jadeja.