Sachin Tendulkar Biography Records Photos Wallpapers

Sachin's all ODi Centuries Highlights.........

2012-12-29T10:10:00.000-08:00

Sachin Tendulkar – ODI (One Day International) century (100) No. 1 – 110 v Australia on September 09, 1994 at Colombo (RPS)

Sachin Tendulkar- 2nd ODI century 115 v New Zealand Vadodara 28 October 1994

4thODI

5TH ODI

6TH ODI

7TH ODI

8TH

Sachin 114 vs south africa

104 vs zim

117 vs New Zealand

143 vs Aus

134 vs Australia

100 vs Kenya

141 vs Australia

118 vs Zimbabwe

124 vs Zimbabwe

140 vs Kenya

120 vs Sri Lanka

186 vs New Zealand

120 vs Sri Lanka

122 vs South africa

101 vs Sri Lanka

146 vs Zimbabwe

146 Vs Zimbabwe part 2

146 vs Zimbabwe part3

139 vs Australia

122 vs West Indies

101 vs South Africa

146 vs kenya

105 vs England

113 vs Sri Lanka

152 vs Namibia

100 vs Australia 2003

102 vs New Zealand

141 vs Pakistan

123 vs Pakistan

100 vs Pakistan

141 vs West Indies

100 vs West Indies

117 vs Australia

163 Vs New Zealand

138 vs Sri Lanka

175 vs Australia

200 vs South Africa

120 vs England

111 vs south Africa

114 vs Bangaladesh

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Heart Touching Letter from Sachin........

2012-12-29T09:46:00.002-08:00

Dear fans,
I am saddened as I write this letter. I know I have disappointed you with the series loss against England and my performance isn’t what you have always expected of me. I have always given my best for the team, but the results are not in my favour this time around. People are clamouring for my retirement and I can’t agree more with them. I have not been living up to the standards that I have set for myself through the years and I am indeed answerable to the fans.

Sachin Tendulkar

I apologize to you for my dismal
performances, and for failing you time and again. It is a general misconception among people that I have grown complacent and
taking things for granted. But I can assure you that I am the same person who made his debut at the age of 16 as an excited teenager. I have been following my routine right from the day I made my debut till today. Nothing has changed, neither the preparation nor the mind-set. Maybe age is finally catching up to me, something I have been trying to fight for the major part of the last five years. I have been training harder to keep myself fit and strong in order to be able to give my best.
Cricket has been my calling right from a young age. I still remember the day me and Vinod were playing together in a Harris-Shield trophy match, where we put up a 600 run partnership. The immense enjoyment of being on the field all day long with my best friend was all I could dream about for the next few days. That was the day I decided to play cricket for the rest of my life, for I loved it more than anything; food, chocolates, bicycles- things that a fourteen year oldcould long for.
Years have passed after that and things are not the same anymore. I have matured both as a person and as a player. But the hunger still remains the same. I still want to do well and give my best whenever I walk on the field; something that has been my mantra all through the years. I have achieved so much in cricket- the fame, the money and the compliments came to me on their own. I am proud of my records when I look back at them today. The only thing I almost missed out on was the World Cup; I got there too in the end, with a team as determined as I was, who strove along with me to achieve the glory that I was unable to attain for almost 22 years.

But the real struggle was after the World Cup, when I had to suffer through another lean patch, which I am going through even now. People wanted me to go now that I have gotten my wishes fulfilled. They said it was the right time for me to retire, since my dream has been achieved. But I felt I can contribute more to the cause of the Indian team. The team needs some good youngsters to fill the places of seniors when we retire, and someone should be there to guide them, or so we felt. It might be a wrong decision but it was for the greater good. Perhaps we realized our mistake when we heard “the seniors are selfish to block the place of talented youngsters!”
Our only thoughts were about setting the team up for the youngsters and getting the tough tours to England and Australia out of the way, so that the youngsters can have a smoother path into the test team. But we did not consider our own problems, which were the roots of our own destruction.
It was a tough time for us after Australia,
losing both VVS and Rahul. It brought me back down to earth, and I started contemplating retirement. But I had some solace after the century against Bangladesh,though we were unlucky to lose the match.
Two series later, we were facing the same predicament against England at home and it was humiliating to lose the series. It was a nightmare for us, having had to endure the cricket crazy fans’ reaction. People started talking about my retirement again, claiming that I was selfish and I had to go sooner rather than later. They even said I am choosing my matches for the fear of facing quality opponents. It isn’t true, of course. I am an old man who wants to spend some quality time with my kids. They should know me enough to call me father and I do not want to miss their growing up years.
Therefore, I take some time off between series to be with them.I have to admit that I am a bit selfish, for I have been playing the game for the better part of my life. I have not known anything other than cricket. Every day I wake up to take up a bat and I sleep after arranging my kit bags. It has been a penance for the last 25 years and it would be hard for me to just give up everything. Retirement would be equal to death for me, as I have lived cricket all my life. Frankly, I do not know what to do with myself once I retire. Will I be able to secure a job as a TV commentator, a trend that has been catching up with some former players, or would I be a successful coach? Nothing pleases me like playing cricket and I am not sure whether I am made for other things in life. I have watched many players retiring, but I never had to think about how they would have felt while retiring. It was an irrelevant thought a few years back, but now I know how exactly each of them would have felt.

I know it’s time for me to go, but as a fellow Indian, I ask this of you dear fans; I am not able to let go of cricket after all these years, and even talking about it makes me feel worse. I just need some time to sort my life out, to decide on what to do with myself once I retire. I am not here for the fame or for the records but for the passion that I had and I have for this game right from the day I picked up a bat. I am making up my mind and I need a little more time to announce my retirement. It is a humble request from a dedicated servant of cricket and I would feel happy if you oblige me.

Thank you
Sachin Ramesh Tendulkar

Recent Sachin Tendulkar Photos

2012-06-11T05:14:00.000-07:00

Sachin Tendulkar with his wife Anjali, and Amit Ansari during
Sworn as Member of Parliment

Sachin Tendulkar Taking oath as a MP

Sachin Tendulkar in Delhi After taking oath as Member of Indian Parliment

Sachin Tendulkar is something more than a legend!...

2012-06-10T19:04:00.002-07:00

Sachin Tendulkar is something more than a legend! The word 'inspirational' seems too small for a person like him. He's truly God's greatest gift to India ♥

The little master, newly sworn member of the Indian Parliament, the Rajya Sabha, has turned down the bungalow allotted to him by the Govt. All members of the parliament are given plots to live. But Sachin refused to live there by saying, ''I’m not keen on blocking a government bungalow because this would be a waste of tax payer’s money as I reside in Mumbai. It would be better if the bungalow is allotted to someone else who needs it more than me,” he said.

Sachin has said that he will live at his own expense in a local hotel whenever the parliament session takes place, and that the bungalow should be given to people (poor) who need it more than him.

Sachin Supports NDTV Coca Cola School Campaign

2012-06-01T12:37:00.001-07:00

Sachin is the brand ambassador of NDTV Coca Cola Support My School campaign. NDTV and Coca-Cola India on Friday celebrated the completion of transforming the 100th school under the 'Support My School' initiative at Priyadarshini Vidyalaya in northwest Mumbai.

Sachin Tendulkar inaugurates 100th transformed school

2012-06-01T12:26:00.001-07:00

NDTV and Coca-Cola India on Friday celebrated the completion of transforming the 100th school under the 'Support My School' initiative at Priyadarshini Vidyalaya in northwest Mumbai.

The event also marked the inauguration of the 50th school library under the initiative. Set up by Pearson Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Pearson, a media and education company, the library has over 600 books on all subjects. It was inaugurated by campaign ambassador and cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar.

I am honoured to be associated with this inspiring campaign that is committed to provide the right infrastructure to keep children happy in schools," said Tendulkar

Representatives of the campaign partners UN-Habitat, Charities Aid Foundation (CAF), Tata Teleservices, Pearson Foundation and Sulabh International were also present at the occasion.

"This is my first century away from cricket and a very happy one. I am honoured to be associated with this inspiring campaign that is committed to provide the right infrastructure to keep children happy in schools. Reaching the milestone of the 100th revitalised school is a proud and joyous occasion for us," Tendulkar said.

The campaign was initiated in January 2011 with a vision to address issues such as access to drinking water, sanitation and infrastructure facilities in schools and to create healthy, active and happy environment at schools.

Coca Cola NDTV Support My School Campaign

Over 43,000 children across 10 states in India have benefited from the campaign that has helped reduce dropouts and absenteeism and increased enrolments in these revitalised schools.

Also present at the occasion were Vikram Chandra, Group CEO of NDTV and Atul Singh, president and CEO of Coca-Cola India and South West Asia.

Speaking about the library, Khozem Merchant, president of Pearson India said: "Our library project has been an extraordinary success with students spending quality time reading books outside of their curriculum, some for the very first time."

Chris Gayle 128 Runs Off 62 Balls Video HIGHLIGHTS IPL 2012 vs DD

2012-05-17T11:25:00.001-07:00

Chris Gayle smashed a rollicking unbeaten 128 from 62-balls with 13 sixes, his first century of the season, to propel Royal Challengers Bangalore to a mammoth 215 for one against Delhi Daredevils in the 67th IPL 5 match at Feroz Shah Kotla stadium here.

Century of sixes in IPL: Gayle needs just 1 six

2012-05-17T09:49:00.001-07:00

This is one record which he will be very proud to own. And he is the only man who could have done it. We are talking about Royal Challengers Bangalore's explosive opener Chris Gayle who needs just one six to complete a century of sixes in the Indian Premier League history. He will be the first man to achieve this record.

The tall Jamaican can be called a six-hitting machine. No ground is bigger if Gayle starts firing. And he is a nightmare for any bowler around the world. So far, Gayle has smashed 99 sixes in IPL history and the hundred is likely to arrive at his home ground, M Chinnaswamy Stadium when RCB take on Deccan Chargers on Sunday night.

Chris Gayle In IPL T20 hit sixes during ipl matches against Delhi Daredevils

Gayle, who first represented Kolkata Knight Riders without much success, has been in supreme form after moving to RCB.

In 37 IPL matches so far, including both KKR and RCB, he has to his name 99 sixes. His first six in IPL was hit against Deccan on April 19, 2009 in Cape Town. It will be a great feat for him to complete the 100th six against the same opposition.

Of his 99 sixes so far, Gayle hit 26 for KKR and 73 for RCB. The maximum he hit in an innings was nine against Kings XI Punjab last year in Bangalore.

Gayle's first six was hit off RP Singh (Deccan) and the 99th off Abhishek Nayar (Punjab) on May 2.

Chris Gayle In IPL T20 hit sixes during ipl matches against Delhi Daredevils

He has played 16 matches for KKR and 21 so far for RCB. The Bangalore franchisee has always depended on Gayle to provide those explosive starts. Whenever he has fired with the bat, RCB have won.

Legspinner Piyush Chawla has suffered the most at the hands of Gayle. The Jamaican has hit him for seven sixes. He tops the list of bowlers who have been annihilated by Gayle. The next in the pack is Rahul Sharma, Rajat Bhatia and Suresh Raina who have conceded five sixes each to Gayle. In all, 45 bowlers have been at the receiving end of Gayle's sixes.

IPL Fixing- Five Players Suspended

2012-05-16T13:14:00.003-07:00

FIVE Indian Premier League players have been suspended from cricket as fresh fixing allegations hit the game and threatened to further tarnish a competition already dogged by controversy.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) moved swiftly after a sting operation by a local TV channel highlighted alleged fixing and corruption in domestic matches.

The five - T P Sudhindra, Mohnish Mishra, Abhinav Bali, Amit Yadav and Shalabh Srivastava - are all first-class players, but have yet to break into international cricket.

Shalabh Srivastava stops a ball during the IPL Twenty20 cricket match between Kochi Tuskers Kerala and Kings XI Punjab at The Nehru Stadium in Indore.

``The BCCI has decided to suspend these players from all cricket till preliminary investigation into the whole episode is completed,'' IPL commissioner Rajiv Shukla told reporters on Tuesday.

The inquiry will be carried out by former police officer Ravi Sawani, who has previously served on the International Cricket Council's Anti-Corruption and Security Unit, Shukla added.

Hindi-language India TV showed Sudhindra, of the Deccan Chargers, allegedly agreeing to bowl pre-arranged no-balls in a local amateur match, while Kings XI Punjab player Srivastava was reportedly heard boasting he could do the same in the IPL.

The channel claimed it had taped seamer Srivastava telling its reporters he could deliver a no-ball in the IPL for one million rupees (about $US18,500).

Pictures of five suspended ipl players. India TV launched a sting operation to reveal IPL corruption

Srivastava, 30, who has played two seasons of first-class cricket for the northern state of Uttar Pradesh, denied the allegation and threatened to take the TV channel to court.

``The voice which suggests that I am ready to spot-fix is not mine,'' he told the Indian Express newspaper. ``I am ready to clarify this to the BCCI, my team owners and the IPL governing council.

``I will definitely file a case against them.''

Another Kings XI Punjab player, Yadav, was taped saying he had reason to believe that last season's IPL match against Delhi Daredevils was fixed, but could not substantiate his claim.

Mishra and Bali also featured in the sting, which India TV editor-in-chief Rajat Sharma said had been worked on for almost a year.

``We stand by our story and will co-operate fully with any investigation the BCCI plans to carry out,'' Sharma told reporters.

Sudhindra has played in three IPL matches this year and Mishra played one game for Pune Warriors, but Srivastava, Yadav and Bali have not featured in the current tournament.

The IPL, which began in 2008 as a high-octane mix of glamour, entertainment, rich purses for players and the excitement of slam-bang T20 cricket, has endured a difficult ride over the past four years.

The tournament, which features world stars playing for rich franchise owners, is already being investigated by government agencies for alleged fraud and foreign exchange violations.

Its founder Lalit Modi, who was suspended from the league in 2010, is holed up in London facing Indian government and BCCI charges of misappropriation of funds.

Three Pakistan players - Test captain Salman Butt and fast bowlers Mohammad Aamer and Mohammad Asif - plus their agent Mazhar Majeed were last year found guilty of spot-fixing during the 2010 Lord's Test against England and jailed

Sachin Tendulkar's brand-new Image........

2012-05-14T09:52:00.001-07:00

In the past more than two decades he let his bat do all the talking. Today, as the world speculates the retirement of perhaps cricket's greatest batsman, Sachin Tendulkar is presenting a new image of himself that's built outside cricket field.

Call it after-cricket brand Sachin: he has agreed to become a Parliamentarian and is reportedly playing a cameo in Bollywood flick Ferrari Ki Sawari.

So will brand Sachin outlive cricketer Sachin? Experts say it will, although the new roles bring new responsibilities and challenges.

"He is a highly desired role model for brands-a non-controversial achiever and that image will go beyond his playing years," says ad filmmaker Prahlad Kakkar, who has worked with the cricketer on several advertisements.

Sachin Tendulkar's new brand image

Sachin Tendulkar, who came into the Indian team as a 16-year-old prodigy in 1989 just before India started the reforms process in 1991, has broken almost every batting record over the past 23 years in a controversy-free career marked by impeccable record on and off the field. And he has been part of many successful campaigns for several national and multinational brands.

Now, he is 39 and there is not much left for him to achieve in a cricket field after having won the World Cup last year and scored his hundredth international century this year. While he is not yet talking about retirement, everybody else is. And his recent moves, particularly that of becoming a Rajya Sabha member, are seen as his retirement plans.

Sachin's new brand image - during practice session

"I believe there is a new brand that Sachin sees for himself after 40, but I don't see Sachin the cricketer in his new brand," says Madhukar Kamath, group CEO and managing director at Mudra Group.

EXPANDING BOUNDARIES

While Sachin's Rajya Sabha nomination might have political undertones with the Congress allegedly trying to capitalise on his brand equity and diffusing the Bharat Ratna issue, the cricketer is clearly exploring his personal boundaries. This is true even with the movie role that he has reportedly accepted.

Historian Ramachandra Guha says that the change is more about Sachin's public figure than an advertiser's brand. "Advertisers will eventually find younger icons, but he will have to find a new role as a public figure," Guha says.

He feels that Sachin must attend Parliament as regularly as possible despite his busy schedule. "He must learn and use this platform to talk about issues," says Guha.

Sachin’s likes Red wine says Brett Lee

2012-05-13T00:55:00.000-07:00

Sachin was the India captain in your debut series, in 1999-00. Were you overawed when you bowled to him for the first time?

A I was 13 when Sachin made his debut for India and I’d watch him on the TV... I was still quite a few years away from playing Test cricket... So, from a distance, I watched him grow as a person, perform at the top level as an amazing athlete... The first competitive match that I bowled to Sachin was, of course, the first Test of that series (at the MCG). But I’d bowled to him once before that, for the Prime Minister’s XI, in Canberra.

You got Sachin out very cheaply (2)...

Yes... He’d nicked and straightaway walked, not waiting for the umpire to give him out. I picked up four wickets in that 50-over match.

But were you nervous on bowling to Sachin for the first time on your Test debut?

I was nervous, I was anxious... I was everything when Steve Waugh threw the ball at me... There I was about to bowl to one of my heroes, somebody whose career I’d followed for a decade. What helped is that, in the lead-up, I’d played a Shield game at the Waca, where I’d bowled really fast... I took inspiration from that.

Sachin Tendulkar and Brett Lee during IPL 5 match Mumbai Indians Vs Kolkata Knight Riders At Eden Garden in Kolkata.

The last time that you bowled to Sachin was during the recent tri-series in Australia. A dozen years after first having bowled to him, what’s it like today?

I break into a giggle, tell myself ‘here we go again’... Look, there’s such an aura about Sachin... He’s completed 22 years at the international level, which is some longevity... Actually, Sachin’s like the amazing red wine (Penfolds Grange) back in Australia, which gets better with age. Indeed, it ages beautifully.

What’s most special about Sachin?

I look at how sportsmen are off the field too... Sachin has remained so humble... I know India fairly well now and know that it can get difficult for us cricketers, fans want to get so close to you... It must be 20 times more difficult for Sachin... Hats off to Sachin for having remained such a gentleman, no matter what the pressure... What he’s done for India is amazing and fans live and die for him. When someone special comes in to bat, you feel his presence... One gets that feeling when Sachin takes guard... You sense
that extra energy. You can’t measure it, but it’s there. Being in the opposition, one tries to get him out, but there’s so much respect for him, respect which has been well-earned. I guess you can count on one hand the number of people who’ve tried to sledge Sachin. That’s the respect he enjoys... He’s an athlete who wants to win. I, at least, don’t have an issue with that. At the same time, you’ve got to be a gracious loser.

Sachin will soon be a member of Parliament. What’s your take?

I’m sure whatever Sachin does, he’ll do it brilliantly.

Youngsters can learn so much from Sachin...

Absolutely... What they can learn the most is that anything is possible... Sachin’s taken India by storm, he’s got the most number of runs and hundreds, has won a World Cup... Is the greatest batsman to have walked the earth... He’s known across the world... Sachin was 16 when he first played for India, so 16-year-olds can dream big... Set their sights high. If you want to look at the perfect cover drive, in all formats, look at Sachin. The ball is presented with such a clean face of the bat.

The last one... The greatest debate continues... Where do you place Sachin?

(Grins) It’s hard to compare eras... However, for me, Sachin’s the greatest batsman, Wasim Akram and Glenn McGrath the greatest fast bowlers, Shane Warne the greatest spinner and my KKR teammate Jacques Kallis the greatest cricketer.

Sachin Tendulkar is a Golden Boy : West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee

2012-05-12T10:59:00.000-07:00

West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee today described Sachin Tendulkar as a 'golden boy' as the state government and the Cricket Association of Bengal jointly felicitated the senior Indian batsman for completing one hundred international centuries.

The felicitation ceremony was held at the Eden Gardens just ahead of the IPL clash between Kolkata Knight Riders and Mumbai Indians.

Congratulating Tendulkar on behalf of the government, Mamata said, "He is a golden boy. That's why we have gifted you a golden bat and ball. We salute your achievement. We are so proud of you."

Sachin Tendulkar receiving a painting from eminent painter Sanatan Dinda after being felicitated by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for his 100th international century milestone, in Kolkata.

Tendulkar greeted the jam-packed Eden crowd first in Bengali by saying 'Bhalo Achi' and then added, "Thank you all for your support I've seen over the years. It has been a pleasure playing. I will cherish these memories. I hope you continue to support me and the Indian team as you always have."

Sachin Tendulkar receiving a momento from West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for his 100th international century milestone, in Kolkata

Earlier the chief minister handed Tendulkar the golden bat and ball and also an earthen pot, containing 100 rasogollas (sweets).

CAB boss Jagmohan Dalmiya also joined them as Tendulkar was bestowed with gifts, including a traditional 'Uttario' (scarf).

Dalmiya also handed the cricketer a memento that read: 'Congratulations Sachin Tendulkar for 100 international centuries'.

Mamata had recently suggested Tendulkar's name for the highest civilian honour -- Bharat Ratna -- in his congratulatory message when the Mumbai stalwart had notched the feat in Dhaka.

The majestic Eden was decked up with giant Tendulkar banners that read 'CAB salutes Sachin'.

Sachin Tendulkar receiving a gold coins from West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and Bangal cricket association for his 100th international century milestone, in Kolkata

The CAB also had put up 65,000-odd small posters in each of the chairs in the stadium for the felicitation.

"This is for the first time, he came here after the milestone. So we plannned to felicitate him in a befitting manner jointly by the state government," CAB chief Jagmohan Dalmiya said.

Sachin Tendulkar's First IPL5 Fifty Pictures...........

2012-05-08T10:02:00.000-07:00

Sachin Tendulkar and Rohit sharma had conversation during ipl match
against Chennai super kings

Sachin Tendulkar's off-side cut shot against Chennai super kings

Sachin Tendulkar celebrates after scoring fifty against Chennai Super Kings during
an Indian Premier League (IPL) cricket match in Mumbai, India, Sunday, May 6, 2012

Sachin Tendulkar taking single against Chennai Super Kings

Sachin Inaugurates Cricket Museum in Pune

2012-05-04T00:02:00.000-07:00

Sachin was inaugrated cricket museum in pune to display personal belongings of legendary cricketers from around the world, including the late Sir Donald Bradman

Sachin's press meet during cricket museum inaugration in Pune

The museum, set up in the Sahakar Nagar area of the city by a private collector Rohan Pate, is the first of its kind in the city.

Lauding Pate's efforts, Tendulkar said it would offer cricket lovers an opportunity to see things associated with the greats in the game.

courtsy : ndtv

Sachin Tendulkar Nominationed Rajya Sabha MP......

2012-04-26T23:13:00.001-07:00

The reactions varied to batting maestro Sachin Tendulkar's nomination to the Rajya Sabha, with some welcoming the move and others critical of his new role, which will deprive him from playing. Social activist Anna Hazare, who is in Mumbai for a two-day trip for consultations on the Lokayukta bill, welcomed the move. However, he mentioned that he is more interested in a corruption-free nation more than anything else at this point.
Information and broadcasting minister Ambika Soni in New Delhi on Thursday hailed the nomination of Sachin Tendulkar for Rajya Sabha saying it was a "very good step".

She appreciated UPA's initiative in nominating Tendulkar as a member of RS saying, "Whenever Congress is in government, it has always nominated such personalities, which leads to an enviornment of energy and encouragement in the country."

Shiv Sena President Uddhav Thackeray also reserved his comments. “Whether or not the Congress gives Tendulkar a Rajya Sabha seat or not, it is between them. I do not want to say anything about this,” he said.

However, Congress MP from north Mumbai Sanjay Nirupam welcomed the move. “Sachin deserves every bit and more. He also deserves a Bharat Ratna. I whole heartedly welcome this decision,” he said.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) legislator Madhav Bhandari, however, said: “As a fan of Tendulkar, I will welcome this move, but as an observer of politics, it will be like keeping him away from his biggest passion - cricket. I also see this as a trick to keep Tendulkar from a Bharat Ratna.”

Commoners, on the other hand, were baffled even at the possibility of Tendulkar as a Rajya Sabha member.

“I am perplexed. Who recommended him? What were they thinking? And tell me what will he do on that position? Sachin is a good cricketer and let them stay in the field of cricket and achieve greater heights,” said Deep Vora, a software professional.

Agreed another Mumbaikar Raghavendra BR, a musician. “Sachin is an achiever in his own right. But I don't quite agree with him being nominated for Rajya Sabha, especially, with his busy schedule,” he said.

“Sachin never seemed to have any inclination towards politics or working of the parliament. I wonder if he has the time to get political, given that his passion for Cricket is so strong. However knowing the personality that he is, I am sure he could do a lot of good to cricketing in India,” said Ajinkya Raut, a dentist and a cricket fan.

Who is Sachin Tendulkar?

2012-04-25T23:30:00.000-07:00

Sachin Tendulkar has been called the God of cricket. For most individuals that would be an unbearable burden. But then few individuals could even dream of posting such statistics as a 100 international centuries, or over 15000 test runs, the first batsman to get a double century in one-day internationals.

And then again, the purists will say, don't look at numbers, look at his game. Then, they too will sigh at the craft of Sachin Ramesh Tendulkar, the man with almost every stroke in the book.

What separates the Master Blaster from others is his unmatched ability to adapt to format, physical conditions and the situation the team is in; this has assisted him in amassing runs in all parts of the world.

He is revered. And yet when he takes over a year to make his 100th ton, an incredible statistic, there are those who point out that India lost to Bangladesh in the effort to notch that hundred. Sachin is compelled to explain that he plays for the team, that he will continue playing. And it goes on - a national obsession. We heard it all before. At heated canteen debates, on long facebook discussions, in every nook-and-cranny of the country.

Born in Mumbai on April 24, 1973, his father Ramesh named him after music composer, Sachin Dev Burman. But it was his elder brother Ajit who encouraged Sachin to take up cricket and took the 12-year-old to Mumbai's legendary cricket coach Ramakant Achrekar. The master-blaster still credits 'Achrekar Sir' with building his technique and powers of concentration

Sachin Tendulkar has been talked about ever since he notched a 664-run partnership with Vinod Kambli as a schoolboy playing in the Harris Shield, an inter-school tournament. At 14, Tendulkar was a ball-boy for India's match against Zimbabwe at the Wankhede Stadium during the 1987 World Cup; few would have thought that they had caught a glimpse of greatness.

Sunil Gavaskar, who was the most successful Test batsman of that era, presented the promising youngster a pair of his own ultra-light pads, a gesture that Sachin says was the biggest encouragement for him. He said that after smashing Gavaskar's long-standing record for the most number of Test centuries.

Tendulkar scored 100 not out in his debut first-class match for Bombay against Gujarat and went on to score centuries on his debut in the Deodhar and Duleep Trophy.

He was selected to play for the Indian side in the 1989 tour to Pakistan. His performances were not thoroughly convincing, but what was credible was his urge to perform despite being hit by potentially lethal bouncers from the Pakistan pacers.

Sachin's first century came almost a year later on the tour to England, he scored an unbeaten 119 and was highly praised for his style and discipline. He had five Test tons before he turned 20 and was a the youngest to reach a 1000 runs in Test cricket.

His flamboyant display not only allowed him to score runs freely but also went a long way in intimidating the bowlers. Sachin went on to establish an indispensable position in the Indian middle order. Though he waited 79 innings to get to his first ODI hundred (in 1994, against Australia, in Colombo), Sachin was the first to get to 10,000 runs in one-day cricket and has scored 49 centuries in that format.

At a time when Indian cricket lost track of its past glory and balance, Sachin Tendulkar seemed to be the only guiding light. The Indian batting was virtually circled around Sachin Tendulkar, inviting awe and anticipation to his presence on the field. Sachin would go on to break the records of the most number of runs and centuries in either format of the game. He also scored the first double century in One Day Internationals, almost 40 years after the format was introduced.

He has been widely compared with the greatest batsman of all time, Don Bradman, who himself admitted that Sachin's style was the closest to that of his own.

Tendulkar's achievements hold even more significance considering the weight of expectations carried by him. He is the only Indian cricketer to get the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award, the Arjuna Award, the Padma Shri and the Padma Vibhushan ( India's second-highest civilian honour). Sachin is also a honorary Group Captain in the Indian Air Force.

Surprising as it may sound, the 39-year old, possesses child-like enthusiasm for the sport, a fact revealed by former teammate Rahul Dravid. A passion that is shared by his family ; his wife Anjali doesn't eat or drink whenever Sachin is at the crease.

By Sachin's own admission, winning the World Cup in 2011 was his 'biggest dream' come true.

The only question mark in an otherwise glittering career is Sachin's captaincy record. In the 25 tests he captained India in, he won just 4 and lost nine In the 73 one-dayers he was captain, India managed to win just 23.

His style and approach have changed over the past few years. Some say it is to elongate his career while some say it is the sport that has brought about the change. But the most suitable explanation seems to be the evolution of a man who has never shown signs of complacency despite having almost every record in the book. Sachin may use the heaviest bat in international cricket (over 3.2 pounds) but what is admirable is that after 23 years of international cricket, it remains one of the broadest that there is.

In a nutshell, Sachin Tendulkar turned a sport into a religion, something that no one had ever done.

courtesy : NDTV

Mumbai Indians Vs Kings XI Punjab Match Photos

2012-04-25T08:07:00.001-07:00

Sachin Tendulkars 39th Birthday Celebration Photos

2012-04-24T13:09:00.000-07:00

Sachin 39th Birth Day Celebration Photo

Sachin with his wife Anjali during his 39th birth day celebration

Sachin Tendulkar celebrates 39th birthday; re-visiting some milestones

2012-04-24T05:38:00.000-07:00

When 16-year old Tendulkar stepped onto the international scene against Pakistan, it must have seemed amusing to many. After all, the kid would have to face the likes of Imran Khan, Wasim Akaram and another debutant Waqar Younis.
However, although Sachin did not score a lot of runs barring a half century, he was noted for the temperament he posed in dealing with the fierce Pakistan pace attack.

A year later, the batting maestro became the second youngest player to score a Test ton during India’s tour of England. Sachin’s innings of 119 not out, along with Manoj Prabhakar’s 67 not out, had saved the day for the visitors.

Then came ‘Sachin vs Australia’ era in the year 1998, when Tendulkar ripped apart the Australian attacks. During Australia’s tour of India, he scored three continuous test tons. In the same year, he smashed nine ODI centuries in 12 months. Tendulkar had become the fifth player in ODI history to pile up 7,000+ runs.

His performances earned him the opportunity to meet Australia’s Sir Don Bradman, regarded by many as the greatest batsman to play the game. The Australian legend had once told his wife when he saw Sachin play on TV, “I never saw myself play, but I feel that this player is playing much the same as I used to play.” In the year 2001, against the West Indies, Sachin increased his test tons to 29 after which he was at par with Sir Don Bradman who had also scored 29 tests centuries.

As it is said, records are made to be broken. However, Sachin had not only broken records, but also went on to create new ones. In 2002, he became the youngest player (31) in the world to represent his country in 100 Tests. Presently, he holds the record of having played the most number of Tests (188) and ODIs (462).

His on field performances also made him a big hit among advertisers. In 2006, he signed a record deal of Rs 180 crore for over three years with Saatchi & Saatchi’s Iconix. Sachin holds the record of having scored the highest runs in Tests (15,470) and ODIs (18,374).

In the year 2010, Sachin achieved what no other cricketer had earlier! He was the first player to register an ODI double century. Tendulkar scored 200 not out against South Africa that year. His proudest moment came a year later when team India had their hands on the 2011 World Cup. Sachin, who was inspired to pick up the cricket bat purely out of love for the game and a dream to win a World cup for his country, saw it turn into a reality.

Finally, after a year long wait, Sachin achieved the unimaginable! He became the first and only player to score 100 international centuries. The batting legend reached the landmark against Bangladesh during the Asia cup.

Post all the achievements and despite rumors of retirement, Sachin’s brand value has not dipped much. He undoubtedly also remains the richest cricketer in the world with an estimated annual earning of around Rs 250- 300 crore.

Sachin Tendulkar turns 39..........

2012-04-23T13:13:00.000-07:00

Sachin Tendulkar turns 39 on Tuesday but no big celebrations have been planned so far by the batting icon or hisMumbai Indians teammates though his die-hard fans have made elaborate plans to observe the day in a big way.
Tendulkar and his wife Anjali, but without their two children, arrived here by an afternoon flight from Mumbai.
The batting maestro's IPL team Mumbai Indians teammates also arrived here with him. Mumbai are set to clash with Kings XI Punjab in Mohali on Wednesday.

Sachin's 39 th Birth day photos

While the five star hotel where Tendulkar and his teammates are staying have made arrangements on their own to throw a party to celebrate his birthday, his first after scoring his 100th international ton, but MI sources said the event is likely to be a low-key affair.
A small private function may be kept and his teammates will wish him on his birthday and cut the cake. MI team owner Nita Ambani is also likely to be present, the sources said.
"There may be a small function, but nothing grand. Tendulkar is a very private person and we are not expecting the event to be a bash. It will be a small function," a team source said.

A senior official of the hotel said they were ready with their preparations, but were waiting for the green signal from Tendulkar's side.
This will not, however, dampen the spirit of his die-hard fans. As the team arrived at the hotel, his fans had already lined up.
"We are a group of friends studying in a college. All of us have placed order for a 10-kg cake to celebrate Tendulkar's birthday. All our friends will be joining us and a big party will be thrown as it is his first birthday after he scored his 100th century recently," said Tanya Mittal, one of his fans.
Last year, Tendulkar did not celebrate his birthday following the demise of his spiritual guru Satya Sai Baba.
Tendulkar has scored 51 centuries in Test cricket from 188 matches and 49 tons from 463 ODIs he has played so far in his international career spanning nearly 23 years.

Ganguly's IPL5 First Wicket Hightlights Video............

2012-04-21T12:00:00.001-07:00

What a power pack performance from Dada. Ganguly really bring back the pune warriors from great disaster after took first wicket in the match against Delhi Daredevils. Here is video of Ganguly's two wicket highlights.

Pune warriors India Vs Delhi Daredevils Match Photos............

2012-04-21T11:43:00.001-07:00

Ganguly Celebration after took his first wicket in ipl5

Ganguly took Kevin Peterson Wicket

Ganguly Bowling in the match against Delhi Daredevils

Courtsy : iplt20.com

Memorable quotes From Sachin Tendulkar............

2012-04-21T07:48:00.001-07:00

Memorable quotes from the Little Master :

At least with me, the match starts much, much earlier than the actual match.

Beating Pakistan is always special because they are a tough team and we have a bit if a history regarding Pakistan.

But eventually it is a game of cricket.

Every individual has his own style, his own way of presenting himself on and off the field.

I always had a dream to play for India but I never let it put pressure on me.

Sachin During Press Meet

I believe every era has its significance and the same holds true for players and coaches.

I feel when somebody has been playing cricket for a long time, he creates a separate identity for himself.

I hate losing and cricket being my first love, once I enter the ground it`s a different zone altogether and that hunger for winning is always there.

I have never believed in comparisons, whether they are about different eras, players or coaches.

I have never thought where I will go, or forced any targets on myself.

I have never tried to compare myself to anyone else.

I just keep it simple. Watch the ball and play it on merit.

I just want to continue the way I am going.

I never played with a runner in my entire life, even in schools, because only I know where the ball is going and how hard, when I hit the ball, something my runner will never know about.

I want to give my six hours of serious cricket on the ground and then take whatever the result.

Sachin should continue playing Test cricket: Says Arjuna Ranatunga

2012-04-20T09:42:00.001-07:00

At an award ceremony on Thursday evening, former Sri Lankan skipper Arjuna Ranatunga said that, Sachin Tendulkar still has a lot of cricket left and should continue playing test cricket.

However Ranatunga made it clear that, the decision of retirement is very important decision and the player should understand when his time is up. He referred to his own example explaining his statement.

Arjuna Ranatunga At Award ceremony in Colombo.

“When I took my decision I always thought that I could have played for three more years. Now I feel that I took the right decision because people ask me why are you retiring rather than when are you retiring,” he was quoted by Khaleej Times.

Ranatunga further added referring to Sanath Jayasuriya that, people shouldn’t question your value and presence in the team. “Ultimately the entire country asked him when are you retiring and he still plays,” he said.

Ranatunga retired from international cricket in 2001. He was involved in a lot of controversies during his career. He’s also credited to for leading Sri Lanka to their only World Cup win in 1996. Since his retirement he has entered politics and also held the Deputy Minister of Tourism portfolio for Sri Lanka.

Sachin Recovered From Finger Injury

2012-04-20T03:47:00.001-07:00

Sachin had Full Practice Session in Mumbai

The batting legend confirmed to MiD DAY that his right index finger has healed. "It (finger) is good now, Tendulkar told MiD DAY after a practice session at the Mumbai Cricket Associations ground in Bandra Kurla Complex yesterday. Tendulkar batted in full zest for nearly two hours in the nets and the veteran batsman in all probability looks set to take the field against Kings XI Punjab at the Wankhede Stadium on Sunday.

He started off cautiously, trying to concentrate on middling the ball well. But as he got into his stride, Tendulkar started to unleash his signature strokes. It was a treat to watch the elegant straight and cover drives, the cut shot, and the inside-out shot over the cover region. The legendary batsman seemed to be in experimental mood as he played some shots which we may not have seen him executive in his near 23-year international career. He attempted the switch hit a number of times in spite of finding it tough to connect on a couple of occasions.

Another shot he played quite often was dabbing the ball in the third man region. He was also seen adapting to West Indies' Shivnarine Chanderpaul-like stance - a bit open-chested.

Tendulkar missed the last five games for Mumbai Indians after hurting his right finger while trying to defend a short one from Chennai Super Kings' Doug Bollinger in the Indian Premier League-V opener on April 4. He resumed training a few days before the Delhi Daredevils match last week, but there was still some discomfort felt. Mumbai Indians, meanwhile, will be hoping Tendulkar's return will boost the team.