A heartfelt moment at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium as Rahul Dravid and Anil Kumble were honored by the Karnataka State Cricket Association with naming rights for two stands in their names. The long-time Karnataka stalwarts, who helped elevate the state's cricketing profile before guiding India at the highest level, are celebrated as two of the game’s most respected figures. Kumble remains India’s all‑time leading wicket-taker in Tests, while Dravid sits second on the nation’s list of all‑time Test run-scorers behind Sachin Tendulkar. The decision to acknowledge them came during the tenure of former Indian fast bowler Venkatesh Prasad, who shared many dressing-room memories with both legends.
Dravid admitted to feeling touchingly moved by the recognition, describing the stadium as a second home where he endured both soaring highs and heartbreaks. He recalled spending more time there than at home during his playing days and spoke of the stadium’s profound influence on his career.
"It has been a second home to me, a venue where, as Anil has said, we probably spent more time than in our own houses. It has brought immense joy and, at times, disappointment, but it has given me everything I am today. I am incredibly grateful to the KSCA and this historic ground for shaping my life," Dravid shared at the ceremony.
He also spoke warmly about the impact of his father, recalling how childhood trips to the ground with his dad sparked a lifelong love affair with cricket and set him on the path that followed.
"I’m truly grateful that Venkatesh Prasad and his committee decided to name an end after me. I know this means a great deal to my family. My father—many people know how passionate he was about the game—played a pivotal role in cultivating that love. He took me to countless matches, not only Tests but Ranji Trophy games, and whenever he could take a day off, he’d bring me to at least one day of cricket from every match. I can imagine how proud he’d be to see his son honored in this way today," he added.
Kumble, for his part, emphasized that Karnataka cricket’s ascent has always been a collective effort, and that the stadium tribute reflects the shared journey of everyone who contributed to its success.
"It’s not about whose name appears on which stand. What matters is that all the contributions—past and present—are recognized and immortalized within this venue. Karnataka cricket and the people who shaped it are, in a very real sense, one and the same," Kumble said in a media release, underscoring the communal spirit behind the honor.
