The legend and legacy of Sachin Tendulkar

Exactly 24 years ago, a 16 year old boy batted through the day against the fierce Pakistani bowling attack despite blood gushing from his nose. The spirit was indomitable. The Indians knew they found a talent but very few knew, they found more than a talent,  they found a seed that would grow into the largest tree covering, conquering the entire cricket fraternity.

Sachin Tendulkar is a name that needs no introduction. His name is so deeply associated with cricket that there are very few people who know cricket and do not know him. His unparalleled achievements have made him the face of Indian cricket.

As Allan Donald quotes, “For cricket, Sachin is Maradona and Pele put together. Cricket will be a poorer sport when he quits the game. He is the first name that comes to mind the moment you ask who is the greatest.”

Sachin Tendulkar credits his coach Ramakant Achrekar for boosting up his confidence as a kid. Achrekar used to put a one rupee coin on the stumps and ask Sachin to bat, if no bowler got Sachin out then he would get the coin. Sachin won 13 coins and still considers them his most prized possessions.

Initially, Sachin intended to become a fast bowler. At the age of 14, he approached the MRF Pace Foundation led by the Aussie great Dennis Lillee to train as a fast bowler. But Lillee suggested he focus on his batting skills rather than bowling. Lillee’s suggestion eventually turned out to be a life changing one for Sachin Tendulkar as he went on to score a century in every innings he played the following year and also was involved in a world record partnership of 664 runs with his teammate Vinod Kambli.

During the 1999 Cricket World Cup, Sachin’s father, Ramesh Tendulkar passed away. His sudden demise left Sachin aghast. It was one of the most difficult phases of his life because his father was the driving force behind his decision to take up cricket as a profession.

After hearing the news, Sachin left to his hometown for three days.  He came back and hit a tremendous 140 of 101 balls against Kenya. Many people believe his decision to return to the World Cup even after such a tragedy was one of the most inspirational moments in cricket. And his smashing knock to put India through to the next round left many people in awe. It was a moment of national integrity, one which left many fans with moist eyes.

The ‘Little Master’ set an example to millions of people, not just aspiring cricketers, but people from all walks of life who lack the courage to follow their passion. The fact that despite all his achievements, Sachin has his head held high and his feet to the ground makes him a paragon to many people. He never let pride take the better of him. It is no surprise that people who believe cricket is religion consider Sachin their God.

Sachin ‘God’ Tendulkar, is an icon, a true gentleman who brought class to a classic game.

He has proved that legends never retire. His legacy continues forever.