A young writer with an abiding interest in cricket has come out with a very readable book on the new stars of Indian cricket. Soumya Bhattacharya, a well-known author, has paid minute attention to the emerging talents of Indian cricket, bestowing on them some fine prose even as some of them struggle to attain the kind of consistency at international level that the preceding generation did at that level to become absolute legends of the game. What I found most intriguing in the book is an analysis of the psyche and persona of Mahendra Singh Dhoni. While the legendary members of the famous quartet or quintet were known to me right from the days of their international debut, India’s greatest sensation of the new millennium is an enigma because of the lack of opportunity to study him at close quarters, apart of course from shooting the odd question at a media conference to get a glib enough answer suiting the mood of the time and the preceding events on the field. The author’s way of placing Dhoni among the greats of Indian cricket seemed to open up a nice and trendy characterisation. Now Dhoni is an original, so much so, a more difficult man to capture within the framework of any known Indian stereotype. As Mukul Kesavan wrote, “Dhoni, though, turned up on our television screens fully formed, untouched by influence, wholly, weirdly, wonderfully himself.” How do you get down to capturing the essence of such a man who is the first small town boy to go on to rule Indian cricket and do so like none ever before him. Bhattacharya has done a wonderful job of describing Dhoni, his background, his beliefs, his cricket, his style. Today, Dhoni may be struggling to live up to the image of the instinctive, nearly infallible personality who captained as he pleased in his own distinctive style and still won everything worth winning. Where we have to measure Dhoni is how he came to be where he is considering where he came from from the back of the boondocks of Jharkhand. It was almost providential that he should lead a bunch of young and inexperienced cricketers in that mad and merry world of the first ever T20 world championship and come out triumphant. That is a surprise Indian cricket is still coming to terms with it, even as it made Dhoni what he is today. The background of some of the other cricketers who came through from small towns also makes fascinating reading. What we see in Cheteshwar Pujara today is a far more rounded cricketer than what he was at the start of his career. His trials and tribulations help put light on what it takes to be one of the very few who break through into the top rungs of Indian cricket and stay there unlike the many one-day wonders who come and go, right back to the wilderness they came from, although immeasurably richer than players of preceding generations would ever have been in such short international careers. We must thank the IPL-loaded system for this. The slotting of Tendulkar’s career into three phases has also been tackled with figures to go with it. This would make good reading for those who wish to understand a man whose life may seem like an open book but who still kept most things to himself even in writing his ghosted autobiography. The author tackles the task without creating any acrimony in describing how the greatest of them all may also have tarried a bit after declining to take the finest exit route at the end of the 2011 World Cup, in which everyone in the nation was praying for a win even as 10 others played specifically to win it for the man who played Atlas to Indian cricket for so long. By his own admission, 2010 was his sweetest year and 2011 immediately brought him the greatest moment of his career in the World Cup triumph. There is a lot to read about the new stars of Indian cricket Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Cheteshwar Pujara, Murali Vijay, Ajinkya Rahane, Virat Kohli. The generation shift came quite some time ago, certainly long before Sachin decided to say goodbye. It is a reference book to the future as it also contains some text from the on-going Supreme Court case into the murky affairs of the IPL. The reality of the conclusion that the promising youngsters will form a team that will be formidable at home, but remain unpredictable travellers lends a touch of percipience, but then history told us long ago that Team India would, like wine, not travel well. Source: The Asian Age
Cricket transition captured
Ellyse Perry meets with super talented 4 year old girl ‘Lil K’
March 28, 2013: ‘Lil K’ is the little Newcastle girl that has caught the attention of Cricket Australia after footage of her playing cricket went viral. She joins us this morning for a bit of backyard cricket, Lil K with Ellyse Perry. click to watch above video.
Ellyse Perry Had the pleasure of meeting a super talented 4 year old girl! For those of you who missed it on the Today Show this morning, see below: The Today Show was on hand as four-year-old cricket prodigy Lil K Lewis met her Commonwealth Bank Southern Stars idol Ellyse Perry: http://cricketa.us/14tnakM, If you haven't seen Lil K's highlights package, you can view it here: http://cricketa.us/19jf2ac, Source: https://www.facebook.com/ellyseperryofficial
Salman Khan and Preity Zinta to co-own IPL team?
Salman Khan and Preity Zinta were co-stars in several films like Chori Chori Chupke Chupke, Jaan E Mann, etc. Now, they might be partners in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Preity Zinta and her ex-partner Ness Wadia co-own the team Kings X1 Punjab. If the buzz and the reports are to be believed, Salman Khan is well on his way to becoming a co-owner of the team. “Salman was the chief guest at this marathon that was organised by BJ Wadia hospital for underprivileged children. Post the flag off, Salman was seen talking to Ness. The two were discussing the IPL in great detail,” says a source. “There is no clear indication that he will pick up a stake in an IPL team his interest in it has only grown with time. He has been making enquiries with Ness. In fact, he has also been asking his other friends about the same. The actor is trying to work out how he can get a piece of the IPL pie as he loves cricket and has a lot of cricketer friends,” adds the source. Salman Khan is already an active participant in the Celebrity Cricket League and his brother Sohail Khan owns the team Mumbai Heroes. So will he be a part of IPL too? The league in which his rival Shahrukh Khan owns a team. The post Salman Khan and Preity Zinta to co-own IPL team? appeared first on Bollywood Celebden. Source: Article
CNR Rao and Sachin Tendulkar receive India's highest civilian award - Bharat Ratna
CNR Rao with prime minister of india
Veteran Scientist C.N.R. Rao and Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar on Tuesday joined the list of 41 eminent personalities who have received India's highest civilian award Bharat Ratna. President Pranab Mukherjee conferred Sachin and Rao with Bharat Ratna at a glittering ceremony at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi. The two have been given the award in recognition for their contribution to the society.Tendulkar, 40, nominated to the Rajya Sabha last year, is the first sport person and the youngest recipient of the award. The government last year changed the nomination criteria for Bharat Ratna to include sportspersons. After receiving the Award Tendulkar wrote on social networking site- "I dedicate this recognition to my mother and millions of mothers across India who have silently sacrificed their wishes and aspirations to support the dreams of their children". "I am very proud of being the son of this wonderful country and express my gratitude for all the love and support," he added. Rao, 79, is the fourth scientist after C.V. Raman, M. Visvesvaraya and former president A.P.J. Abdul Kalam to get the Bharat Ratna.
Sachin Tendulkar with prime minister of india
Tendulkar is the most accomplished cricketer in the world, finishing his illustrious career with a fair clutch of records. He has 15,921 runs from a record 200 Test matches at an average of 53.58 and 51 centuries. He scored 18,426 runs from 463 ODIs with an average of 44.83 including 49 centuries. He was also the first to score a double hundred in the 50-over format. Tendulkar quit the one-day form of cricket in 2012 and Tests last year. Rao is one of India's most renowned scientists and is known for his work in solid state and structural chemistry. He is the honorary president of Bangalore's Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research, which he founded in 1989. Rao was appointed chairman of the Scientific Advisory Council to the Prime Minister in January 2005. He is also the director of the International Centre for Materials Science. Source: Article, Images sources flicker.comNew Zealand's Corey Anderson smashes fastest-ever ODI century
West Indies captain Dwayne Bravo (L) congratulates Corey Anderson of New Zealand after Anderson scored the fastest century in history during the third ODI between New Zealand and the West Indies in Queenstown. (AFP Photo)
New Zealand's Corey Anderson clubbed the fastest century in the history of one-day international cricket - from 36 balls - as the hosts reached 283-4 from only 21 overs in Wednesday's rain-shortened third one-dayer against the West Indies. The young allrounder hit 12 sixes and four fours in his 100, beating, by one delivery, the 37-ball record of Pakistan's Shahid Afridi against Sri Lanka which has stood for almost 18 years. Anderson finished on 131 not out from 47 balls, as New Zealand scored at an extraordinary 13 runs per over. He put on 191 for the fourth wicket with Jesse Ryder who made 104 from 51 balls - the sixth-fastest century in one-day internationals. Ryder is in his comeback to international cricket after a two-year absence. Captain Brendon McCullum set the momentum of the New Zealand innings when he smashed 33 from 11 balls, coming in following the dismissal of opener Martin Guptill for 1 after the home team was sent in to bat. McCullum plundered 24 runs from his first five balls, and Ryder joined in, hitting consecutive sixes from Jason Holder as the pair raced to a 50-run partnership from 18 deliveries. Ryder took over when McCullum was out caught in the deep, and dashed to his half century in 24 balls with four fours and four sixes. Ryder, who was for a duck in his comeback game at the start of this series, was back to his most belligerent form on Wednesday, but was overshadowed by Anderson who played one of the most remarkable innings in the history of one-day cricket. Anderson reached 50 from only 30 balls, with two fours and six sixes and after hitting four consecutive sixes from the bowling on of Sunil Narine. He then repeated the feat and hit four sixes in an over from Rampaul whose three overs conceded 64 runs. Anderson was 95 not out after 35 balls, needing a six off the next ball to break Afridi's record. Though unaware of the beckoning record, he swatted the next ball from spinner Nikita Miller out of the ground to break the world record. He hit another six from the next ball to raise a 150-run partnership with Ryder in only 36 minutes. Ryder reached his century from 46 balls and was out five balls from the end of the New Zealand innings for 104, which included five sixes and 12 fours. Source: Hindustan Times
Mum, Dad, I hope I have made you proud: Kallis
paid handsome tributes to his late parents for all the support they gave to make him a cricketer and hoped he did them proud. Kallis, who retired from Test cricket as South Africa wrapped up the two-match series 1-0 against India, also said he was fortunate to have some great coaches. "I`ve been fortunate to have had great coaches throughout the career, my friends and family have put up with me being away, will be nice to catch up with them. So many people to thank. Two of the most important people, who aren`t there, so `Mum, Dad I hope I`ve made you proud`," said Kallis. Kallis, 38, said it was a tough decision for him to retire from Tests. "Tough call (to retire from Tests). It`s been incredible, the way people have come out to support me, the way CSA and my team-mates have made it a special game. I still had the same butterflies ahead of this game, thanks to MS (Dhoni) and the team for the guard of honour, I was glad I didn`t face the next ball then," he said. Source: Article, Image: flickr.com
Cricketers And Their Exes
The batsman is famous for going aggro on the pitch, and apparently the same high voltage runs to his choice in women too: Virat was earlier rumored to be carrying on with sexy Brazilian model Isabella Leite and is these days spotted cozying up to Bollywood bombshell Anushka Sharma
Anushka Sharma kisses Virat Kohli?: Virat Kohli and actress Anushka Sharm: It seems something is cooking between "just friends" Virat Kohli and actress Anushka Sharma. If reports are to believed Virat stopped by at Anushka's residence to meet her before he left for South Africa. Quoting an eyewitness, a Mid-Day report says that around 10:45 pm, both, the cricketer and the actress left Anushka's place and stepped out of the lift on the second floor parking area of the building. Both were casually dressed and the actress gave him a quick kiss before he left in the car. Source: Times Of India
The 2011 World Cup Player of the Tournament and cancer survivor hasn't always been lucky in love. Yuvraj dated model and actress Kim Sharma for four years and they even came close to walking down the aisle together. The match wasn't to be and the couple parted ways. Kim went on to marry a Kenyan businessman of Indian origin. Yuvraj on the other hand has been paired with names like Deepika Padukone, who travelled to Sydney to cheer him on in a game and model Aanchal Kumar.
Zaheer Khan's relationship with dancer-actress Isha Sharvani was an on-again off-again affair for as many as eight years. The couple were constantly rumoured to have set a wedding date but finally called it quits for good in 2012. Distance was cited as the reason for the split. Isha had said at the time - "I don't want to talk about that... it is way too personal and something that should remain between two people. It is not right to wash dirty linen in public. We respect each other."
The match-fixing scandal and a subsequent ban from competitive cricket isn't the only thing that brought Azharuddin infamy. During his stint as India Captain, Azhar received flak from both the media and public when he divorced Naureen, his wife and the mother of his two sons, after falling in love with Sangeeta Bijlani. Bijlani, a model and small-time actress, was better known for being Salman Khan's ex. Her marriage to Azhar lasted 14 years before the couple separated in 2010. Azhar was then linked with badminton player Jwala Gutta and more recently Delhi-based American expat, Shannon Marie Talwar.
.
Aussie speedster Brett Lee married Elizabeth Kemp in 2006. They have a son named Preston Charles, born the same year. However, after two years of marriage, in August 2008, Lee confirmed his separation from Kemp. They divorced in 2009. As soon as the split was announced, rumours emerged that Lee suspected his wife of having an affair with a rugby player whom she knew previously in Brisbane. This was later disputed, with extended periods of loneliness due to Lee's off-season commitments keeping him away from Kemp and his young son Preston given as the reason for the marriage breakdown.
No cricketer has had quite the kind of risqué love life as that of Shane Warne. The sheikh of tweak was married to Simon Callahan in 1995 and the couple divorced in 2006. In between there were three children and numerous sex scandals. Warne was accused of sending lewd text messages to a woman while on tour in South Africa. However, the woman who made the claims was subsequently charged with extortion. In 2000, he lost his Australian vice-captaincy after sending erotic text messages to a British nurse and in 2005 was dogged with allegations of further extramarital affair during The Ashes. In 2006, a tabloid published pictures of Warne standing in his underwear with a pair of 25-year-old models, as well as explicit text messages from Warne. In 2007, Warne and Callahan attempted to reconcile but the pair parted ways yet again after Warne accidentally sent a text message meant for another woman to his ex-wife's phone. Since 2010, Warne has been with English model and actress Elizabeth Hurley to whom he is now engaged.
Former Pakistan cricket captain, express fast bowler, current politician and quintessential ladies man. Imran Khan is often described by all of the above. The playboy cricketer settled down in 1995 with Jemima Goldsmith, a young heiress and the daughter of Lady Annabel and Sir James Goldsmith. Jemima even converted to Islam and moved to Pakistan to be with Imran, where they had two sons together. They divorced in 2004. At the time Imran stated that his political career had made it difficult for Jemima to adjust in Pakistan. Jemima later went on to date British actor Hugh Grant before ending the relationship in 2007. Khan on the other hand has steered away from any committed relationship.
Graeme Smith was made South Africa's cricket captain at the tender age of 22. The move made him hot property and he went on to date a string of girls. The relationship that garnered the most media attention was when he was courting the famous South Afican model Minki van der Westhuizen. Minki and Smith's partnership didn't last long enough and the Skipper is now married to Irish pop singer Morgan Deane. Minki meanwhile wed a businessman by the name of Constant Visser but that too didn't work out. She is now married to Rugby Player Ernst Joubert.
Jacques Kallis isn't considered to be the best all-rounder just for his batting and bowling skills alone. The South African legend has managed to attract more than his share of women and most of them have happened to be famous models. Kallis has been going steady with Sports Illustrated model Shamone Jardim for the past few years but prior to that he dated beauty queens Marisa Eggli and Cindy Nell. His liaison with Nell garnered much media attention and he was even engaged to the former Miss South Africa and Miss Universe runner-up. The love fizzled out and Nell is now expecting her second child with husband Clive Roberts.
If Kallis has a penchant for beauty queens then Sri Lanka's Sanath Jayasuriya hasn't hid his fascination for air hostesses. The 1996 World Cup star has been married thrice and all his wives have been flight attendants for Sri Lankan Airlines. Talk about having a type! Jayasuriya's marriage to first wife Sumudu Karunanayake lasted only 6 months. He then had a long-lasting union with Sandra De Silva with whom he has 3 children. In November 2012 he married Maleeka Sirisenage who has also forayed into acting. Let's hope that the Matara Mauler is third time lucky.
The cricket world's most famous split of recent years has to be that of Michael Clarke and Lara Bingle. Clarke was engaged to the Australian model and the high profile couple were almost always in the public eye . The pair broke up following the release of nude photo of Bingle during the Australian tour of New Zealand in March 2010. Clarke, then vice-captain, left the tour midway to return to Sydney and sort out 'personal issues'. Bingle gave a paid interview to a magazine and that was apparently the tipping point for the young Aussie. He ended his engagement and Bingle moved out of their plush Bondi beach home. In the process Clarke managed to resurrect his career and win back favour with Australian cricket administration. He was later appointed captain of Australia and has since married model and TV presenter Kyly Boldy.Source: Fun Duniya With Inputs.
Cricket pitch was my temple - Sachin Tendulkar
A day after his retirement, Sachin Tendulkar addressed a huge gathering of media personnel in Mumbai.
He arrived looking sharp in his Team India blazer. He looked a happy and content man as he smiled generously for the shutterbugs. He answered all the questions elaborately and patiently. The frenzied atmosphere turned pleasant with the light-hearted jokes he punctuated his answers with. (Also Read: Sachin Tendulkar’s Emotional Farewell Speech: 200th Test) Here is what Sachin Tendulkar had to say in the press conference. The 24-year long journey: Playing cricket was the most important thing for me during the last 24 years. A lot of challenges came up during that time. But the desire to play for the nation led me to find solutions to those challenges. I was helped by my family and friends all along. It was a dream journey of 24 years. It still has not sunk in yet that I won’t play anymore. I probably might find or the other place or occasion to play cricket. I have no regrets. I felt this was the right time to stop playing cricket. All I can say that it was an enjoyable journey. The ‘Oxygen’ in his life: Cricket is oxygen to me. Out of the 40 years of my life, I have spent 30 playing cricket. 75% of my life has been cricket. My association with the sport will continue, maybe not immediately, but in the near future. The big decision: I remember there have been lots of questions about my retirement over the years and I’ve always said ‘I’ll tell you when I feel like I can stop’. I have had injuries that have been tough to overcome. But there comes a stage where your body tells you ‘enough of this physical load’. So I thought my body can’t take that load consistently. The training sessions were becoming an effort. Sometimes I felt I should just sit and watch TV. These were raising questions in my mind, and I needed to find answers. So I requested the BCCI that if these two matches are to be my last, if possible, arrange the last one in Mumbai. My mother had never seen me play. I wanted this to be a surprise to my mom. But through the media, she came to know of it. But coming back to the question, the moment I got the feeling I should stop playing, I stopped. The emotional moment: It was an emotional moment when after my last match I went and touched the pitch. The wicket is like my temple. Whatever I have achieved in life, it is done between those 22 yards. When I was thinking about retirement, I wasn’t so emotional since it was the right decision. My family were moved, I wasn’t. But I became emotional when my team gave me a send-off. When I went to the wicket (one last time), I felt emotional. The thought that I won’t be able to return to that place, especially for India, made me emotional. The final hurrah: My mother was extremely happy. Earlier, we were not sure if she would come since it was difficult for her to travel. Thanks to the BCCI for making the arrangements. I requested the MCA for a room at the Garware guest house for us in case my mother wants to rest there. But she preferred sitting in the stadium and watching every ball that was played. I could see in her eyes that the occasion was special for her. But her reaction was controlled and balance. She spoke more through her eyes and I could sense that. The after effect: Today morning I woke up, at 6.15 – because of my body clock – and realised I don’t need to quickly have a shower and be ready for the match. I made myself a cup of tea, enjoyed a lovely breakfast with my wife. It was a relaxed morning. A lot of people had sent me their wishes and I spent some time responding to their messages. The morning was relaxed. For the love of the nation: Even though I’m physically not playing for India, I’ll always be praying for an Indian victory. I feel India must come first in any field it participates in. The Bharat Ratna: Yesterday I said this award was for my mother for all the sacrifices she made for me. As a child you don’t understand what parents go through to make you happy. The beauty of it all is that I was never told what all was done for me. In fact, I will go a step further and share this award with the millions and millions of mothers who sacrifice thousands of things for their children. This award is for my contribution to cricket. When you’re growing up, all you want to do is score hundreds, take wickets, keep bettering your performance, and I’ve tried to do that. The people have praised me for doing that and that has given me the strength to go out and repeat it continuously. This award is also for those people. It’s a great honour to be named alongside Dr. CNR Rao as his contribution to science is immense. Cricket is seen by the public in thousands, but not his scientific achievements. So I would like to congratulate him. Fighting the odds: Injuries were tough on me. They were rarely the same. To overcome them and return to the sport was tough. You can’t say “I’ll work out in the gym for two months and be fit again.” The body works in its own natural ways. When I had the tennis elbow injury, I felt my career was finished and I might not be able to play. After the surgery, I could not even lift my son’s plastic bat. At a return game, I was playing with a season ball and my hardest hits were not travelling beyond 10-15 yards. It was tough for me. But I would like to thank the people who helped me recover and play again. Family balance: The beauty of my family is that they never lost balance, whether I scored 15-20 or a hundred. They always encouraged me. I was able to perform since an early age because that balance was maintained. If I did well, like any other family we bought a pack of sweets and offered it to god to thank him. That tradition continues. That’s what I’ve learnt from my parents... when you grow up you appreciate life. The Young brigade: Guys like Bhuvaneshwar Kumar were not even born when I started playing. I joke with some of them they should say ‘good morning sir’ to me when I enter the room. But it has been a joy working with them. When you understand what they have to say to you, you become a better person. Passing on the knowledge: It is a nice thought to open a cricket academy. I’d like to be involved with youngsters. I’ve been interacting with young players from U-19 and Ranji teams. I’ve not made this public. They’ve been low-profile and private. It’s a nice thing. These interactions teach you things about the game. Tendulkar junior: As a father, I’ll ask you to leave him alone and not have expectations and draw comparisons with me. If I had followed my father I would have had a pen in my hand since he was in the field of literature. Arjun is passionate about cricket. You have to be madly in love with the sport to be able to give your best. As far as performance goes, I won’t pressurise him and neither should you. He should just enjoy the game. The script ahead for him will be decided by god. Source: Article
Sachin Tendulkar’s Emotional Farewell Speech
"Well my friends.. please settle down, let me talk, I will get more and more emotional. My life between 22 yards for 24 years, it is hard to believe that the wonderful journey is coming to an end. I would like to thank all the people who have played an important role in my life. I have a list here but I apologise if I forget someone. The most important person in my life, my father, who passed away, is the man I have missed so much. He told me at the age of 11 to follow my dreams but to not take shortcuts. To be a nice person and to try my best. Every time I have done something special and shown my bat, that has always been for my father. I do not know how my mother coped with a naughty child like me. For her, it was most important that I remained healthy and fit and she took care of me. Even before I played for India, the day I started playing cricket she began praying for me. A big thank-you to my mother for all of her sacrifices. During my school days, I stayed with my uncle and my aunt. After a hard day's cricket, my aunt would feed me so I could play the following day. I was like a son to them. My eldest brother always told me that he had 100% faith and confidence in me and he know I would give it my all. The first cricket bat I had was presented to me by my sister who still fasts for me when I play. My other brother has sacrificed his career to make sure I get the very best treatment. He introduced me to my coach and even last night, we were discussing my dismissal. You should always talk about your technique and without him constantly getting me to examine mine, I would have been a lesser cricketer. The most beautiful thing happened to me in 1990, when I met my wife. Those were special years and it will always continue that way. With her being a doctor, there was a wonderful career in front of her. When we decided to have a family, she said she would step away from her career and told me to pursue cricket. Without her doing that, I wouldn't have been able to play so freely. Thank you for staying with me, putting up with all the ups and downs. You are the best partnership I have had in my life. The two most precious diamonds in my life are my children. They have already grown up. Time has flown by! I wanted to spend so much time with them on their birthdays, sports days and on holidays. I have missed a lot of this. I have not spent enough time of your life with you both and promise you the time from now is dedicated to you. My in-laws have been so loving and supportive. They have always given me advice. It is always so important to have such a strong family unit around you. The best thing they have done is to let me marry my wife, so thank you. Throughout my time playing cricket, I have always had such good friends. They would always give me the time and encouragement. They did anything
they could to support me. Thank you for being there. My career started when I was 11. My life changed when my brother took me to meet my coach. He watches every game that I play. Back in the day, he would take me all over Mumbai to make sure I received enough match practice. On a lighter note, he never said well played to me in fear of me getting complacent. He can now rest easy, my coach has had a great influence on my life, thank you sir. My cricket career started here in Mumbai at this ground. I wanted to play here and thank you to the officials for looking after my cricket. BCCI has been fantastic right from my debut. Believing in my ability and selecting me for India at 16, was a big step. I really appreciate your support for when I was injured and you made sure I had the best treatment. I have played with some great players over my career and they have all helped make me be a better cricketer. My team mates in front of me are like my family away from home. It is going to be difficult not being part of the dressing room. I will miss you. When MS Dhoni presented me with my 200th cap on the morning of Day 1, I told the team that we are so, so fortunate and must be proud to be part of the national team. I know that all of you will continue to serve the sport in the future in the right way. We have been blessed to be chosen to have
this opportunity and I have every faith the team will serve India going forward. I would be failing in my duties if I didn't thank the doctors and trainers who have somehow managed to keep me fit. Without your services I wouldn't have been able to play. They have been very committed, so thank you for keeping me in shape. Unfortunately we lost one of my managers but his lessons stick with me. He told me to play freely and he looked after things so I could focus on the cricket. My current management team have this carried on. The media backed me a lot when I was doing well in my school days and have continued to do so throughout. Thank you very much for being behind me and to the photographers for capturing such memorable images. Finally, I want to thank all of the people here who have flown in from all over the world to be here today. Whether I score 0 or 100 plus, you have cheered me. Without your commitment, my life wouldn't have turned out this way. I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart the memories will always stay with me. Especially your chant "Sachin, Sachin". I am sorry if I have missed out anything, I am so grateful to you all. Thank you and goodbye!" Source: Article,
We Just Keep Picking Winners: Not Only Ferrari, but Also a Centurion!
We Just Keep Picking Winners: Not Only Ferrari, but Also a Centurion!
March 29, 2012, Eugene Kaspersky: As I’ve mentioned here before, tearing up the rulebook is an internal slogan of our marketing department. Sometimes the proverbial tearing up of the rules occurs in explosive fashion (for example when we recently arranged for a Japanese Awa Odori dance to be performed at the Barcelona Carnival); other times, the ripping up takes place at a calmer pace and over a longer term. Incidentally, there’s a completely separate format – that of our philanthropic initiatives; but we tend not to harp on about these too much. Anyway, let me tell you about another rulebook-shredder of the calmer, longer-term kind…For several years our “face” in the Asia-Pacific region (APAC) was Jackie Chan. Everyone was pleased with this set-up, me included of course, and so we decided to continue in the same 
vein, but with a slightly different – Indian – slant, especially since KL’s prospects in this country are looking nothing less than spectacular. So in September 2011 we gladly announced that Sachin Tendulkar – the international cricketing legend – became our Brand Ambassador. As you probably know, Cricket has English genealogy, and therefore it logically became popular not only in the motherland but also in the former British colonies: Australia, India, New Zealand, Pakistan, South Africa, Sri-Lanka, the West Indies… Today, a billion-plus people around the world are just crazy about the game. Just recently I was told that Sachin had broken a world record. And not just any old record. It’s one that will make sure his name will 
vein, but with a slightly different – Indian – slant, especially since KL’s prospects in this country are looking nothing less than spectacular. So in September 2011 we gladly announced that Sachin Tendulkar – the international cricketing legend – became our Brand Ambassador. As you probably know, Cricket has English genealogy, and therefore it logically became popular not only in the motherland but also in the former British colonies: Australia, India, New Zealand, Pakistan, South Africa, Sri-Lanka, the West Indies… Today, a billion-plus people around the world are just crazy about the game. Just recently I was told that Sachin had broken a world record. And not just any old record. It’s one that will make sure his name will 
forever be one of the key figures in the annals of the game, and one that has the whole of India currently in a frenzy. So, what’s all the fuss about? The fuss, in a word, is about a centurion. A cricketing centurion. Though the title was thought up eons ago, no one had ever become one – so tough was it to pull off. To become a centurion one needs to score a century – 100 runs – in 100 international matches. And it’s only Sachin who’s ever clinched it. Attaboy! Way to go! Now that’s how we like it – being a winner! The only 
other cricketer on the planet that comes close to Sachin Tendulkar in terms of cricketing achievements, is the brilliant Sir Don Bradman with a batting average of 99.94 runs. So it’s congratulations from me to our new face for APAC – a true champion; no! – a true centurion! I’m really looking forward to getting acquainted with him personally. I’ll leave you with a few photos…Courtesy: http://eugene.kaspersky.com/2012/03/29/sachin-tendulkar/
other cricketer on the planet that comes close to Sachin Tendulkar in terms of cricketing achievements, is the brilliant Sir Don Bradman with a batting average of 99.94 runs. So it’s congratulations from me to our new face for APAC – a true champion; no! – a true centurion! I’m really looking forward to getting acquainted with him personally. I’ll leave you with a few photos…Courtesy: http://eugene.kaspersky.com/2012/03/29/sachin-tendulkar/
After 200 Tests and Rs 500 crore, new innings for Brand Sachin Tendulkar
The show will go on for Brand Tendulkar for many more years even after the curtains come down on his cricketing career on November 18, said advertising, marketing and brand pundits on the day the Master Blaster announced his decision to retire from cricket. Tendulkar made his debut against Pakistan in 1989 and his journey with Indian brands started almost immediately, picking up the first few endorsement deals in 1990 for health supplement Boost and Band-Aid from Johnson & Johnson. Tendulkar may play his last match on the fifth day of his 200th Test match in Mumbai. Across 24 years, Tendulkar is estimated to have endorsed over 50 brands including Boost, Pepsi, MRF, Adidas, Britannia, Fiat Palio, Airtel, Sanyo BPL and Coca-Cola with accumulated endorsement fees over Rs 500 crore. His prominent business deals included the Rs 30-crore plus with WorldTel in 1995 which was renewed in 2001 with more than double the price tag of Rs 80 crore. In 2006, Tendulkar inked a contract with advertising firm Saatchi and Saatchi’s Iconix which was reportedly valued at Rs 180 crore for three years. For ad-film maker Prahlad Kakkar, Tendulkar is an icon whose value cannot be measured in currency. “Like we do not call Mahatma Gandhi a brand, Tendulkar for us is an icon. He is much ahead of being a brand. He is an embodiment of values which will continue to inspire young and old for many years to come.” Kakkar directed Sachin in Pepsi commercials. KV Sridhar, chief creative officer at Leo Burnett South Asia said that Tendulkar was timeless and had moved well beyond cricket. “His price may come down but his value won’t. If you have a timeless classic brand, Tendulkar would be the right person to endorse it. He is unblemished by controversies.” Sridhar pointed out that actor Aamir Khan did only one movie a year. Yet Khan’s brand value hadn’t plummeted.
World Sports Group (WSG) has been managing Tendulkar’s brand endorsements since 2006, when his contract with WorldTel ended.
Titan continues to be endorsed by him. “But if I had to compare Tendulkar with any endorser, it would certainly be Amitabh Bachchan. They are two timeless people who inspire millions”. Echoes Anirban Das Blah, managing partner at CAA KWAN, a leading entertainment, fashion, celebrity and sports management company: “Tendulkar has stood for integrity, value and a fighting spirit for us in the post 1990 liberalised India. He showed that we could win against any opponent. He will remain sought after for brands that embody reliability and integrity even after retirement.” However, brand-strategy specialist & CEO, Harish Bijoor of Harish Bijoor Consults disagrees: “Unfortunately, the world of brand endorsement is very cruel. We have seen the decline in the endorsement deals for Sachin since past four years and almost in line with his decline in the ability to score and deliver. I doubt if he will have any endorsement deals one year from now.” According to Kakkar, brand Tendulkar stands for reliability, integrity, dedication and honesty. “Categories like banks, insurance, government schemes and health schemes will always find Tendulkar a perfect brand-fit even after his retirement. In this era of corruption and scams, Tendulkar is the one icon you can showcase to your children. He will always be bigger than any brand,” said an emotional Kakkar. Cricket writer Ayaz Memon said: “Brand Tendulkar is not going to be diminished. His legacy will endure,” Memon said, putting him in the same league as Michael Jordan. He agreed that over time, Tendulkar had matured in terms of the endorsements he took on. He’s been tilting towards more serious kind of advertising. Sensing his ability to connect with the masses, the government has already used Tendulkar as a spokesperson for National Egg Coordination Committee and the AIDS Awareness Campaign. But his critics said he may not be of much commercial value post-retirement. “He peaked when he did well with his bats. In those days, Tendulkar used to charge Rs 8-10 crore per endorsement. That was his peak. Of later, Tendulkar has only stood for records and milestones. We are emotional people, but brands and marketers are not. He will remain an icon, but his space will be filled by younger cricketers as is already happening,” said a senior executive in a sports apparel brand. Hiren Pandit, COO of TransStadia which has diversified interests across sports academies, intellectual property rights, consulting and infrastructure said that brands may need to strategise differently on how they used Tendulkar. “He (Tendulkar) may need to re-position himself. His brand value will depend a lot of how much he manages to stay in the public and media eye. We will have to wait and watch as to what he does next”. @ Financial Express
Cricket won't be the same without Sachin: Big B
Mumbai, 11 Oct 2013, ( IANS) Sachin Tendulkar is retiring from cricket after the second Test match against the West Indies and Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan says the news came as a shock to him. "I heard the news and I was shocked," Big B told reporters Friday on the occasion of his 71st birthday. Batting great Tendulkar Thursday decided to quit from all forms of international cricket after his 200th Test against the West Indies in November. "Sachin is the heart of cricket. He is a phenomenal athlete. He has not just excelled himself in cricket, but he is also a symbol of great excellence. It's unimaginable to see him retire. Cricket will not be the same without Sachin," said Amitabh. --Indo Asian News service, uma/ar/vt. Source: Article, Image: flickr.com
Tendulkar reaches 50,000-run landmark across all formats
Sachin Tendulkar on Saturday reached another landmark by completing an impressive 50,000 runs in competitive cricket across all formats. Needing 26 runs, Tendulkar tucked one towards midwicket for a single off left-arm spinner Yannick Ottley to reach one more milestone in his glorious career spanning close to two-and-a-half decades. The 'little master' now has 50,009 runs in 953 competitive matches, which, includes 551 List A matches, 307 First-class matches and 95 T20 games. Tendulkar has so far scored
25,228 runs in 307 First-class matches which includes a staggering 15,837 runs in 198 Tests. Moreover, the 40-year-old has 21,999 runs in 551 List A matches which includes 18,426 runs in 463 ODIs. The maestro is also standing on the cusp of an additional rare feat of becoming the first player in the history of the game to play 200 Test matches, which in all likelihood will be completed in the upcoming Test series against the West Indies. Some other known batsmen who crossed the 50,000-run mark are WG Grace,
25,228 runs in 307 First-class matches which includes a staggering 15,837 runs in 198 Tests. Moreover, the 40-year-old has 21,999 runs in 551 List A matches which includes 18,426 runs in 463 ODIs. The maestro is also standing on the cusp of an additional rare feat of becoming the first player in the history of the game to play 200 Test matches, which in all likelihood will be completed in the upcoming Test series against the West Indies. Some other known batsmen who crossed the 50,000-run mark are WG Grace,
also known as the father of cricket", Mark Ravin Ramprakash, a Middlesex star and presently the team's batting coach and English batsman Jack Hobbs. But, it is Graham Gooch who has the most runs in all three formats combined (67,057). Immediately after Tendulkar's feat Twitter broke loose into "retirement" frenzy. Some wanted him to retire...@ColKGSharma7AAP High time to decide retirement byhim.He may be first cricketer to face ignored selection for all types of games. Some asked him not to...@sherin246 "Just remember that the world loves you. Your retirement has saddened many people. Fact: 40+ gets even juicier. #SaluteTheLegend Some just enjoyed the moment...@MuftiSheikh “Sachin Tendulkar completes 50,000 runs in all recognised cricket.” Legend-wait for it-ary (with PTI inputs). Source: Hindustan Times
Dhoni blasts India to last-over win in series final
Indian captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni is lifted off the ground by teammate Ishant Sharma after hitting a boundary for six to seal victory over Sri Lanka on July 11, 2013. Dhoni dragged his side to a pulsating one-wicket victory in the final of the Tri-Nation Series at Queen's Park Oval.
Returning to the team after seeming to be ruled out from the rest of the tournament with a hamstring injury 11 days ago, the inspirational wicketkeeper-batsman smashed 16 runs off three deliveries in the final over, bowled by Shaminda Eranga, to take the tournament favourites to 203 for nine in reply to Sri Lanka's 201 all out off 48.5 overs. Less than three weeks after lifting the Champions Trophy to add to the World Cup title of 2011, Dhoni held a rapidly imploding innings together in compiling an unbeaten 45, carting the hapless Eranga for a six, a four and then a six off successive deliveries. "I thought I could target the bowler in that last over because he's not as experienced as some of the others," said the India captain. "I didn't want to take any chances against someone like a (Lasith) Malinga or a (Angelo) Mathews. I think I'm just blessed with good cricketing sense." Last-man Ishant Sharma was only required to survive at the other end and managed to achieve just that, although there were a few anxious moments between his arrival at the crease at 182 for nine and when the captain took responsibility to win the match on his own in the final over. Source: Sports.xin.msn
India wins Mohali Test match, seals Border-Gavaskar Trophy
India won the 3rd Test match against Australia by 6 wickets on the fifth and final day of play at the Punjab
Cricket Association (PCA) Stadium. With this win, India regained the Border-Gavaskar Trophy with a 3-0 score line with one match remaining in Delhi, starting from March 22. India reached the victory target of 133 with 15 balls to spare, surviving a spirited bowling performance by the Australians. Shikhar Dhawan who scored a blistering 187 in the first innings was declared the man of the match. Dhawan in the post-match ceremony said, "I would like to thank god and my family. It's s dream come true. When I entered, I was nervous for three-four balls. Once I got into my rhythm, I played my natural game. I will cherish this for the rest of my life". Australia scored 233 in their second innings with the much-maligned Phil Hughes top-scoring with a valiant 69. Fast bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar and left-arm spinner Ravidra Jadeja picked up
three wickets each. After the win captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni said, "Fast bowlers and spinners both exploited the conditions well. Jadeja's inclusion meant we were playing with five specialist bowlers. It was one of the best batting exhibitions by Vijay and Dhawan. Bhuvnesh's wickets in the second innings helped us win the game". Australian Captain Michael Clarke said, "I think we showed character, but we have to give credit to India. The start that Dhawan and Vijay gave was outstanding, and all credit to them. The way we came out and fought with the ball today is amazing. We are disappointed, but hopefully we can finish on a high in Delhi. There are some positives but there are certainly areas we can get better". Image: Screen Shot On Video, Source: Newstrackindia
Cricket Association (PCA) Stadium. With this win, India regained the Border-Gavaskar Trophy with a 3-0 score line with one match remaining in Delhi, starting from March 22. India reached the victory target of 133 with 15 balls to spare, surviving a spirited bowling performance by the Australians. Shikhar Dhawan who scored a blistering 187 in the first innings was declared the man of the match. Dhawan in the post-match ceremony said, "I would like to thank god and my family. It's s dream come true. When I entered, I was nervous for three-four balls. Once I got into my rhythm, I played my natural game. I will cherish this for the rest of my life". Australia scored 233 in their second innings with the much-maligned Phil Hughes top-scoring with a valiant 69. Fast bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar and left-arm spinner Ravidra Jadeja picked upthree wickets each. After the win captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni said, "Fast bowlers and spinners both exploited the conditions well. Jadeja's inclusion meant we were playing with five specialist bowlers. It was one of the best batting exhibitions by Vijay and Dhawan. Bhuvnesh's wickets in the second innings helped us win the game". Australian Captain Michael Clarke said, "I think we showed character, but we have to give credit to India. The start that Dhawan and Vijay gave was outstanding, and all credit to them. The way we came out and fought with the ball today is amazing. We are disappointed, but hopefully we can finish on a high in Delhi. There are some positives but there are certainly areas we can get better". Image: Screen Shot On Video, Source: Newstrackindia
Australia win ICC Women's World Cup
Australian cricketer Elysse Perry (3R) is sorrounded by teammates as they celebrate the wicket of unseen West Indies cricketer Stafanie Taylor during the final match of the ICC Women's World Cup 2013 between Australia and West Indies at the Cricket Club of India's Brabourne stadium in Mumbai. AFP Photo
Australia clinched the women's World Cup for the sixth time when they defeated the West Indies by 114 runs in the final in Mumbai on Sunday. Australia, electing to bat, scored 259-7 before dismissing the West Indies for 145 in the day-night match. Brief scores: Australia 259-7 in 50 overs (Jess Cameron 75, Rachael Haynes 52, Jodie Fields 36 not out, Meg Lanning 31, Ellyse Perry 25 not out; Shaquana Quintyne 3-27) West Indies 145 all out in 43.1 overs (Merissa Aguilleira 23, Deandra Dottin 22, Kyshona Knight 21 not out; Ellyse Perry 3-19, Lisa Sthalekar 2-20, Erin Osborne 2-26, Megan Schutt 2-38). Source: Hindustan Times,
Padmas for Mary Kom, Dravid, Rajesh Khanna
Noted physicist Yash Pal and space scientist Roddam Narasimha were named for the Padma Vibhushan awards Friday, with 106 other Padma awardees, including actors Sharmila Tagore, Sridevi, the late Rajesh Khanna, late satirist Jaspal Bhatti and Olympic medallists Mary Kom, Yogeshwar Dutt and Vijay Kumar. Sculptor Raghunath Mohapatra and painter S Haider Raza were among the four chosen for the second highest civilian award, the Padma Vibhushan. Nobody was named for the Bharat Ratna for this year too. Cricketer Rahul Dravid made the 24-strong list for the Padma Bhushan. Joining him was Godrej group chairman Adi Godrej and missile scientist A Sivathanu Pillai. The awards will be presented in March and April. Kom, silver medallist at the London Games, is the only Olympian in the Padma Bhushan list. India's other two Olympic heroes, wrestler Yogeshwar Dutt and shooter Vijay Kumar, were named for the Padma Shri, along with
actors Sridevi and Nana Patekar, filmmaker Ramesh Sippy and fashion designer Ritu Kumar. Rajendra Achyut Badwe, director of Mumbai's Tata Memorial Centre, oncologist Pramod Kumar Jhulka of AIIMS, homeopath Vishnu Kumar Gupta and sculptor Rajendra Tikku were named for the Padma Shri. Four more sportspersons were named for the Padma Shri — mountaineer Premlata Agrawal, para athlete Hosanagara Nagarajegowda Girisha, boxer Ngangom Dingko Singh and rower Bajrang Lal Takhar. Source: Hindustan Times,
actors Sridevi and Nana Patekar, filmmaker Ramesh Sippy and fashion designer Ritu Kumar. Rajendra Achyut Badwe, director of Mumbai's Tata Memorial Centre, oncologist Pramod Kumar Jhulka of AIIMS, homeopath Vishnu Kumar Gupta and sculptor Rajendra Tikku were named for the Padma Shri. Four more sportspersons were named for the Padma Shri — mountaineer Premlata Agrawal, para athlete Hosanagara Nagarajegowda Girisha, boxer Ngangom Dingko Singh and rower Bajrang Lal Takhar. Source: Hindustan Times,
Where do film stars put their money?
Shah Rukh Khan is bringing the Mexican edutainment brand KidZania to India. The brand, which will launch a theme park in April 2013, will be co-owned by Khan.
Hobbies and personal experiences from martial arts to motherhood are deciding actors’ investment choices. Shah Rukh Khan is famously enamoured with children. So, when he decided to bring the Mexican edutainment brand KidZania to India, it did not come as a surprise. The brand, which will launch a theme park in April 2013, will be co-owned by Khan. The park will enable children to gain real-life experiences through role plays such as being a chef, pilot, surgeon, lawyer and fire-fighter. “India is a young country and we need to focus on building a strong future. KidZania will try to build awareness among children through an experience that is hands-on, engaging, educational, and most importantly, fun,” says Khan. For a long time, Bollywood actors have invested in film production houses, restaurant chains, clothing lines and cricket teams. Several stars now seem to be looking beyond the obvious. Like Khan, there are several others who are willing to put their money into projects which are not confined to entertainment and luxury alone. Khan’s co-star of many films, Juhi Chawla, has invested in an education website called Ubqool.com, which will help children plan their studies. Ajay Devgn has invested in a solar park in Gujarat, while Karisma Kapoor has opted for an online baby care portal Babyoye.com. Shilpa Shetty has invested in a group buying site called GroupHomeBuyers.com, which offers deals on real estate and home loans, and plans to include furniture deals as well. Akshay Kumar, a martial arts buff, is using a part of his pay cheque to organise an annual competition to promote karate. There are many reasons for celebrities stepping out of their comfort zones as far as money is concerned. While the thrill of doing something new is one, Chawla feels that age also plays a major role in the decision. Motherhood changed her perspective towards many things. “Launching this educational website was one such instance. I thought it would benefit all children, including mine,” she adds. A friend of Devgn says that the actor’s investment emerges from his long commitment to the environment. Devgn’s Juhu home and Karjat farmhouse, both run on solar power. Kapoor, a mother of two, came across Babyoye.com as a customer. The site’s Co-founder and Director, Arunima Singhdeo, says that Kapoor had offered many tips and was offered the chance to become a partner. “I want to share this service with other parents. I have put in my time and money but, most importantly, I’m putting my heart into it,” says Kapoor. Source: Screen-India
The bond grows as Sachin gets Order of Australia
Minister for Regional Australia and Minister for the Arts Simon Crean displays the Order of Australia conferred upon Sachin Tendulkar during an event in Mumbai. AP Photo
Ever since his first tour in 1991-92, Sachin Tendulkar has established a special bond with Australia. Being one of the best to play the game, it was natural for the Little Master to win respect in Australia, known to be the toughest place to play cricket. On Tuesday, the bond grew stronger when Tendulkar was conferred the Order of Australia. Simon Crean, a senior minister, honoured the batsman with a medal and stump. He now joins Brian Lara, Clive Lloyd and Gary Sobers as the non-Australian cricketers to be given the honour. Highlighting a reason for the admiration Australians have for him, Tendulkar said, “They are fierce competitors and if you do well against them, they shower you with compliments and that's what happened to me.” Recalling his initial impression of the country, Tendulkar said, “After seeing matches in floodlights as a 12-year-old in 1985, I started dreaming of playing there.” It turned into reality when Tendulkar played in the 1991-92 tour of Australia. “Playing for three-and-a-half months transformed me, one had to play Down Under to experience it,” he said. Source: Hindustan Times, Image
Tendulkar deserves Australian honour: Gilchrist
Former Australia cricketer Adam Gilchrist defended the country's decision to confer Sachin Tendulkar with the Membership of the Order of Australia award saying that the Indian legend has been of great help in developing relations between the two countries. A couple of days ago, when Australia Prime Minister Julia Gillard announced that Sachin Tendulkar will be conferred with Member of the Order of Australia, many Australians commented on the same and raised objections including former Australia cricketer Matthew Hayden. Hayden slammed the country's move to confer the honour to Sachin Tendulkar, as the honour was given only to citizens of Australia and for people who have contributed to the country and the Indian legendary cricketer had not contributed anything to the country while he had only played in
Australia. Contrary to Hayden, Gilchrist felt the honour was a recognition of the respect Tendulkar receives in Australia as well. "The discussion around his award and the variety of opinion shows the amazing profile that Tendulkar has. Credit to Sachin to have the place he has held in both the countries. He has forged 22-years of relation between the two countries," Gilchrist told reporters at the University of Wollongong conference on Monday. "I was able to send him a quick message and was thrilled to receive one back (from him) saying 'welcome to the club', because it was the same honour that I was very fortunate to receive. It (the award) is a mark of respect to a great man," he added.Source; Cricket News
