Sachin Tendulkar

Sachin Tendulkar is a former Indian cricketer widely regarded as one of the greatest batsmen in the history of the sport. His international career spanned 24 years, during which he set numerous records, including being the first player to score one hundred international centuries. Revered as a national icon in India, his achievements transcended the game, influencing a generation of cricketers and fans globally.

Early life and background

Born in Bombay (now Mumbai) into a Maharashtrian family, he was named after the famed music director Sachin Dev Burman. His early talent was evident at Sharadashram Vidyamandir school, where his coach, Ramakant Achrekar, played a pivotal role in his development. A prodigious schoolboy cricketer, he famously scored 664 runs in a Harris Shield tournament partnership with Vinod Kambli. His rapid ascent continued with selection for the Mumbai domestic side at the age of 14, and he made his debut for India Under-19s against Pakistan in 1987.

International career

He made his Test debut against Pakistan in Karachi in 1989 as a 16-year-old, displaying remarkable courage against a formidable pace attack. His first Test century came in 1990 at Old Trafford against England, saving the match. In ODI cricket, he revolutionized the role of the opener, exemplified by his iconic innings of 82 runs off 49 balls against New Zealand in 1994. Landmark achievements include his first ODI double-century against South Africa in 2010 and being a cornerstone of India's 2003 Cricket World Cup and 2011 Cricket World Cup triumphs, the latter on home soil at the Wankhede Stadium.

Playing style and legacy

Technically complete, he was renowned for the straight drive and a wide array of shots all around the wicket. His ability to dominate world-class bowlers like Shane Warne, Glenn McGrath, and Wasim Akram cemented his reputation. He holds the records for most runs and centuries in both Test cricket and ODI cricket. His influence extended beyond statistics, inspiring a wave of Indian cricketers including Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Virender Sehwag. In 2013, he became the first sportsperson to receive the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian award.

Post-retirement activities and honors

Since retiring in 2013, he has served as a mentor for the Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League and was appointed to the Rajya Sabha, the upper house of the Parliament of India. He has engaged in numerous philanthropic efforts, supporting causes like child health and education. In 2014, he was awarded an honorary Group Captain rank in the Indian Air Force. His autobiography, *Playing It My Way*, was published in 2014, and he was inducted into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame in 2019.

Personal life

He married Anjali Tendulkar (née Mehta), a pediatrician, in 1995. The couple has two children, Sara Tendulkar and Arjun Tendulkar, the latter pursuing a professional cricket career. He is known for his humility and disciplined lifestyle, maintaining a strong connection to his roots in Mumbai. His interests include collecting watches and cars, and he is a co-owner of the Kerala Blasters FC in the Indian Super League.

Category:Indian cricketers Category:Recipients of the Bharat Ratna Category:Members of the Rajya Sabha