Don't blame cricket for its popularity - Dravid

Rahul Dravid has responded to criticism questioning the inclusion of cricketers in the Olympic torch relay, saying that cricket should not be blamed for its popularity. The Olympic torch is currently in India, and Dravid, Anil Kumble and Irfan Pathan are due to carry it on Wednesday, June 10.

Outlook reported that Dravid said the Olympics were about more than just sports, and that a lot of hard work was involved in all sports.

"The Olympic movement is not just about sports. Its goals are broader and involve people from various walks of life," Dravid said. "If cricket is the number one game in India, it is not the fault of cricket or the cricketers. It is for other sports to ensure that they are similarly popular, TV-friendly and able to catch the imagination of the kids.

"I have a lot of respect for other sports, have friends in other sports. So I know how much hard work goes into their achievement and excellence. But I don't think anybody should blame cricket for its popularity."

Dravid was chuffed with the idea of holding the torch and said that though he would have liked to take part in the Olympics, reality - that cricket would not be an Olympic sport - didn't disappoint him.

"It is a great feeling. We all have watched the torch relays right from the time when we were kids. We all know about the history behind it. It is going to be a phenomenal experience to take part in the relay," Dravid said. "Cricket has never been part of the Olympics. So when we started playing, we knew that we are never going to take part in Olympics.

"So there is no question of any disappointment for us cricketers. I would feel extremely happy if I could take part in the Games but I want to be realistic."