Ponting vs Dravid
January 9, 2006Both type of players have their utility in a team. So just because player X scores faster than player Y, it wouldnt put him ahead in a test match.
Its a 5 day match and a team game and to build a score, a sheet anchor, anattacking player - all are useful.
A common arguement which people give to rate Ponting ahead of Dravid - in a scenario where quick runs are needed Ponting will be more useful - he is a far more attacking batsman with a higher strike rate.
1) Even in that scenario a Dravid at an end could be useful for the attacking players to pile the runs from the other end having the assurance of one player keeping an end safe.
2) There are scenrios where you have to play a defensive role (when encountering difficult weather conditions for instance where there is excessive swing, unfavourable conditions to pile the runs) and Dravid would be more useful there. Playing a defensive role in an inning or 2 sessions can contribute as much to a winning cause as an attacking inning.
It is too close to call but I would have Dravid because he adds solidity.
i do agree that Dravid is much more versatile than ponting. though ponting has the team to prove his point and with his performance in his 100th test he gain an advantage over dravid, but dravid has proved to be far more versatile than ponting with much scarce resources on his hand particularly the attacking part of his team. he has always lead from front is all discipline of the game.
Comment by royale — January 28, 2006 @ 10:01 pm
Yes I agree, Dravid is certianly more versitile, also with then both being captains Id pick Dravid ahead of Ponting because he handles the captaincy alot better.
Comment by Anthony Humphreys — August 10, 2006 @ 4:42 pm