London: The ever dependable Rahul Dravid denies he is defensive but says he enjoys batting for long periods and 'frustrating people' by his technique.

"I wouldn't say I'm defensive but I think sometimes the situation demands that I put down a solid foundation for the stroke-makers to follow," the 'Observer' quoted Dravid as saying on Sunday.

"I enjoy doing that (playing defensive). I enjoy batting for long periods. I enjoy frustrating people," Dravid said. Dravid also dismissed suggestions that being in the same side as batting maestro Sachin Tendulkar had affected his batting.

"I've never looked at it that way. I mean it's a huge honour to play with Sachin, to share the same dressing room as him. If anything his presence has helped me and been good for my cricket. I've always batted the way I know I can bat."

When Dravid arrives at Lord's on Thursday for India's first Test against England, the 29-year-old will be returning to the scene of his Test debut. Six years ago, he and another newcomer to the Indian side, Saurav Ganguly, shared a 94-run sixth- wicket stand that was the key to their team having the better of a drawn game.

Extras:
Dravid shines as Hampshire bowls out India for 236