Mumbai, April 13 (IANS) India'scricket legend Sachin Tendulkar, who Sunday became a joint owner of a new football team from Kochi, feels that the inaugural Indian Super League (ISL) will be a great platform for young Indian footballers. Tendulkar, a motorsports fan, and PVP Ventures, which owns Indian Badminton League (IBL) inaugural champions Hyderabad Hotshots, together clinched the Kochi franchise for the two-month ISL that will be played from September in eight cities. "I will always remain a sportsman at heart who is keen to positively impact the sporting fabric of the nation. The Indian Super League presents a great opportunity to develop a platform for the youngsters to learn and enhance their talent to develop into outstanding players," Tendulkar said here Sunday. "It has been an interesting experience interacting with the young, passionate team at PVP Ventures led by Prasad Potluri. Based on the various insights shared by the team, the opportunity of the Kochi club seemed like a compelling and challenging proposition. With the Kochi club, we will strive to 'score our goals' and play a part in developing the game of football across the country," Tendulkar added. Potluri, chairman and managing director of PVP Ventures Limited, said their priority will be to develop the Kochi club. "We look forward to developing the Kochi club in the Indian Super League and are proud to partner with one of India's greatest sportsmen, Sachin Tendulkar, in our efforts. We will tap the potential talent as also channelise the fervour and passion for football across the country to enhance the quality and competitive level of the sport. The following and enthusiasm of football in the southern part of the country presents a fertile opportunity for us to execute our plans and leverage global expertise for the development of a world class club," he said. The ISL is being promoted by IMG-Reliance, who are the commercial partners of the All India Football Federation (AIFF). The remaining seven franchises are Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bangalore, Guwahati, Pune and Goa. Source: Article
ISL a great platform for youngsters: Tendulkar
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.comRetired life isn't so bad, Tendulkar assures Jacques Kallis
Sachin Tendulkar on Monday paid tribute to just-retired South African all-rounder Jacques Kallis, calling him a "true champion" who always played the game in the right spirit. Tendulkar, who called time on his own career in international cricket last month, tweeted: Kallis, one of the greatest all-rounders of the game, bid adieu to Test cricket after an illustrious 18-year career in a fairytale script as he hit a century in his
.
swansong match in South Africa's 10-wicket thrashing of India in Durban. The script for Kallis' Test retirement could not have been better as he ended his career as the third highest run- getter in the longest format of the game, besides also bowing out with a win by his side. The 38-year-old 'King' Kallis ended his Test career on.13,289 runs from 166 Tests, only behind Tendulkar (15,921) and Ricky Ponting (13,378) in the all-time list. His batting average stood at an outstanding 55.37. He also took 292 wickets and 200 catches. His 45 tons in Test cricket is only second to Tendulkar's 51. Kallis will continue to play in the One-Dayers and he has so far scored 11,574 runs from 325 ODI matches and has taken 273 wickets at an average of 31.79. The burly South African made his Test debut against England in December 1995. Source: Hindustan Times, Image: https://upload.wikimedia.org/.Make Sachin Tendulkar sports minister: Milkha
Panaji: Sachin Tendulkar should be made sports minister to improve India's sporting prowess, ace athlete
MilkhaSingh said here. "Sachin should be made sports minister so that he can work for the betterment of sport. It's only a sportsman who will work sincerely and with dedication for the cause of sports," the "Flying Sikh" said. Milkha Singh was speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the unveiling of the mascot for the Lusofonia Games in Panaji. Make Sachin Tendulkar sports minister: Milkha Singh "It's only a sportsman who will work sincerely and with dedication for the cause of sports," said Milkha Singh. Singh, who unveiled "Jojo", the mascot for the Portuguese Commonwealth Games 2014 scheduled to be held in Goa, also said he has "never given any thought" as to whether the Bharat Ratna should be have been conferred upon him, instead of Sachin Tendulkar. He, however, said there was one athlete who really deserved India's highest honour. "One person who deserved the Bharat Ratna before anyone else was Dhyanchand," he Singh said. Source: Article, 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/
Sachin Tendulkar inaugurates hi-tech cath lab in Mumbai
Mumbai, Aug 30 (ANI): Star batsman Sachin Tendulkar inaugurated here a highly specialised catheterization laboratory for cardiac patients in Holy Family Hospital. The lab will enable cardiac patients to immediately undergo a surgery if their angiography shows that he or she requires it. "I feel that, with this facility in the hospital, we have been blessed to serve the community," Tendulkar said on Sunday. He added that the date of inauguration coincided with his mother's birthday. "The doctors have been doing a wonderful job for a number of years now. And I have no hesitation in saying that I have full confidence in you that you will continue to do this noble job. And it becomes our responsibility...not only of the doctors, but whoever is able to help a common man or a needy person, we should try our best," said Tendulkar. He also revealed that machinery used in the labs is second of its kind in India. A catheterisation laboratory or cath lab is a diagnosis room in a hospital or clinic with examination imaging equipment used to support the catheterisation procedure. By Sanjeev Shukla (ANI). Source: News Track India, Image Credit: drbrianpinto.com
Exclusive Tendulkar merchandise up for sale
Bangalore, May 27 (IANS) A new collection of Sachin Tendulkar branded merchandise was launched which is up for sale exclusively on Collectabillia.com and Flipkart.com. The collection is the first of such an initiative by Collectabilia.com and caters to Sachin's fans around the world. The merchandise, such as pen drives, helmet-shaped paper-weights, diaries, and accessories including tie-pins, wallets, cricket-themed cuff links are among the many items that will be sold. "It's an interesting line of merchandise and a way to keep connected with my fans. Collectabillia has been able to create this unique line and I wish them all the success", said Tendulkar. Image Credit: Flixcart, Source: News Track India
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
Yuvraj returns in stunning fashion
Rajkot: If there was anything called a ‘fairytale comeback’, Yuvraj Singh had one on Thursday. In fact, had it not been for Sachin Tendulkar announcing his decision to retire after his 200th Test, Yuvraj would surely have been one of the biggest headline-makers of the day. Precisely, it was Yuvraj’s second comeback in his post-cancer days. Donning Team India colours after eight months, the dasher hit an awesome 77 not out (off just 35 balls) to lead India to a fine six-wicket win, with two balls to spare, in the one-off T20 International against Australia, here, at the Saurashtra Cricket Stadium. For sure, the pitch was a batting paradise and India’s chase was helped further by some sub-standard stuff dished out by the rival bowlers. That said, chasing an imposing target of 202 under any conditions is no easy job. With this victory, India are now the only team to have chased down a total in excess of 200 twice in the T20 format. And this was made possible by Yuvraj, who proved he still belongs among the best. No wonder this was the perfect stage for the fighter in Yuvraj, who prevailed over the deadliest of odds, to announce his comeback in such a magnificent style. Not getting even one over to bowl, Yuvraj ensured he delivered with the bat. His contribution came at a stage when India were struggling at 100 for four in the 12th over. The top four — Rohit Sharma, Suresh Raina, Shikhar Dhawan and Virat Kohli — were all back to the hut and India needed another 102 runs off just 53 balls. But just as Yuvraj struck two consecutive sixes off Clint Mckay in the 14th over, which produced 18 runs, the game started tilting in India’s favour. From thereon, there was no stopping Yuvraj. He started dealing in boundaries and sixes, with the Australians looking worse than clueless. Captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s (24 not out) calming influence at the other end ensured Yuvraj’s super show remained the talking point of the game. Earlier, Australia rode Aaron Finch’s 89 to post 201 for seven. Put into bat, Australia raced off to 56 for no loss in the fifth over. Making his debut, young Nic Maddinson (34) was extremely impressive with shots all around the park. Dhoni introduced spin as early as the third over in the form of Ravichandran Ashwin. Finch and Maddinson took 17 runs off the off-spinner to hit him out of the attack. Outscoring the more experienced and seasoned Finch, Maddinson looked all set for a well deserved half-century before playing across the line and losing his off-stump to Bhuvneshwar Kumar (three for 35). The dismissal, though, didn’t affect Australia’s rhythm as Finch continued with his positive approach. However, Vinay Kumar (three for 26) dented Australia’s progress with a double strike in the eighth over, removing Shane Watson and Aussie skipper George Bailey in a space of just two balls. Just as India looked to choke Australia down, Glenn Maxwell took charge and maintained the tempo, ensuring the fabulous start didn’t go for a waste. Maxwell smashed three sixes in the 10th over that cost India 24… And the man at the receiving end was none other than Ashwin, who wasn’t given the ball thereafter. Maxwell’s cameo ended when Ishant Sharma took a fine catch at deep long-on, off the bowling of Ravindra Jadeja. Finch though continued, holding the innings together. However, Bhuvneshwar and Vinay Kumar returned to apply the brakes on Australia’s progress. The duo mixed it up with full length and slower balls as the visitors, after Finch’s dismissal, managed to hit just two fours and a six in the last four overs of their innings. Source: News Bullet
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
Tendulkar scores ton as Mumbai reach 272/3 on day one
Sachin Tendulkar scored his 80th first-class century for Mumbai to help his team post 272 for three on the first day of their Ranji Trophy quarter-final clash against Baroda at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Sunday. He was well-supported by opener Wasim Jaffer (137 not out), who scored his second consecutive century today, having hit 171 against Gujarat in their last league game. Tendulkar and Jaffer lifted Mumbai from 35 for two at one stage to a 270-plus total by the end of day's play, after putting on a 234-run stand for the third wicket. Tendulkar, who recently retired from One-Day International cricket, looked in sublime form as he notched up his 18th Ranji century. From word go, the veteran was playing his shots. He hit a six off Ketul Patel to bring up the fifty, while his century came off an Ambati Rayudu over as he ran hard for two runs. Playing his 35th Ranji match for Mumbai, Tendulkar spent 296 minutes at the crease for a well-made 108 that came off 233 balls, and was studded with 10 hits to the fence and a six. He was castled by Baroda pacer Murtuza Vahora, four overs prior to the end of day's play. This was Tendulkar's second ton of the season. He had hit 137 against Railways in a league match in November last year. He is now one short of the Indian record held by Sunil Gavaskar, who has 81 first-class hundreds to his name. In Ranji Trophy, Gavaskar had scored 20 centuries. After electing to bat, Mumbai lost opener Kaustubh Pawar (8) and one-down batsman Hiken Shah (9) cheaply. But Tendulkar and Jaffer managed to consolidate the innings, and although the latter was lucky to get a life when he was dropped at slip by skipper Yusuf Pathan on 96, he played a responsible knock and would look to score some more runs on Monday. The Baroda bowlers struggled after picking up two early wickets even as Yusuf used as many as seven bowlers to get a breakthrough. At stumps, Jaffer was unbeaten on 137 off 256 balls. His knock was laced with 16 fours and three sixes. Giving him company on the other end was Dhawal Kulkarni, who is yet to open his account. For Baroda, Vahora chipped in with two wickets for 50 runs in 23 overs. Source: Hindustan Times
Tendulkar to be made member of Order of Australia
Sachin Tendulkar is set to add another feather to his already crowded cap as Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard on Tuesday announced that the iconic Indian cricketer will be conferred the membership of the Order of Australia, an honour "rarely" awarded to non-Australians. The 39-year-old Tendulkar, who is currently in South Africa playing in the Champions League Twenty20, will become only the second Indian after former attorney general Soli Sorabjee to get the honour. Sorabjee was made an honorary member of the Order of Australia (AM) "for service to Australia-India bilateral legal relations" in 2006. "Cricket is of course a great bond between Australia and India. We are both cricket-mad nations. I am very pleased that we are going to confer on Sachin Tendulkar, membership of the order of Australia (AM)," Gillard, who is on a visit to India, told reporters in New Delhi. "This is a very special honour very rarely awarded to someone who is not an Australian citizen or an Australian national. The award will be conferred on him by cabinet minister Simon Crean when he visits India," she said. "So, a special honour and a very special recognition of such a great batsman. The honour is very special and Sachin is a very special cricketer." Tendulkar is not the first cricketer to be made an Order of Australia AM as in 2009, West Indies legend Brian Lara was also made an honorary member. Another West Indies legend, Clive Lloyd, is an honorary officer in the Order of Australia, having been conferred the award way back in 1985. The right-handed Tendulkar, considered the finest batsman in contemporary cricket, has 15,533 runs in 190 Tests besides a mammoth 18,426 runs in 463 ODIs. Source: Hindustan Times
Tendulkar nominated for ICC People's Choice Award
Just two years after winning it, senior Indian batsman Sachin Tendulkar was today once again nominated for the ICC People's Choice award. Those nominated include Sri Lanka's Kumar Sangakkara, South Africa's duo Vernon Philander and Jacques Kallis, while England's James Anderson makes up the quintet of nominees. Both Sangakkara (2011) and Tendulkar (2010) have won the award in the past. For the third time in the history of the awards, fans will have the opportunity to decide the winner, this time by accessing an application on the ICC's official Facebook page: www.facebook.com/cricketicc. Voting will be open until midnight August 31 with the winner to be announced on September 15 at the LG ICC Awards in Colombo, the ICC said in a statement. The shortlist, nominated by an elite panel of cricket experts headed by former West Indies captain Clive Lloyd, along with Sri Lanka's Marvan Atapattu, England's Clare Connor, West Indies Carl Hooper and Australia's Tom Moody, was selected using criteria set out by LG and the ICC. "This is the third year of the LG People's Choice Award and it is proving to be hugely popular among fans across the globe and continues to highlight how much voting for their cricketing heroes means," ICC Chief Executive David Richardson said. "This year sees the two past winners nominated again alongside three other extremely deserving candidates, I'm sure the public will choose wisely as to who will be the 2012 winner of this prestigious award at the LG ICC Awards 2012." Source: Indian Express
I won't shout in Rajya Sabha to express my view: Tendulkar
Known as a person of few words whose cricketing bat does all the talking, Sachin Tendulkar on Friday said that he would not indulge in shouting in the Rajya Sabha as he would make his point across in a polite way. Tendulkar, who recently took oath as a Rajya Sabha member, said that he would express his views politely and not indulge in shouting to make his point, a practice adopted by many parliamentarians these days. "No I don't think I need to shout and I hope, you know, that no one will make me shout. Why should one be shouting? You can politely put your point across and say whatever you have to, and then, whatever happens, happens," Tendulkar told. The batting great was recently nominated to the Rajya Sabha for his achievement in cricket. Tendulkar gave words of encouragement to the Indian contingent for next month's London Olympics, saying that they should give their best shot to bring laurels for the country. "I pray to God that they get all the strength and that they go out there and perform and express themselves, and all I can say is just enjoy yourselves and the rest will follow. They've really worked hard for a number of years now and yes, the expectations are there, but who wants to go there and fail?" he asked. "They are all going out there to give their best and get medals for India and that would be just unbelievable, more the better. So, all the very best and whether you bring back medals or not, what matters is your effort and we are very proud of you," said Tendulkar, the world's highest run-getter in both Test and ODIs. Source: The Hans India::
Sachin Tendulkar gets Wisden India Outstanding Achievement award
Dubai, Sachin Tendulkar, the little master was presented the Wisden India Outstanding Achievement award for completing a century of 100 international hundreds here. Tendulkar had achieved the milestone while playing against Bangladesh in the Asia Cup in March. The event was organised by FidelisWorld and the iconic batsman was presented with a trophy. Made from crystal, it features a cricket ball resting on the open pages of a book. The 49 one-day international centuries that Tendulkar has made are listed on one side, and his 51 Test hundreds on the other. Tendulkar spoke on various aspects of his career at the function such as his favourite innings - the match-winning fourth-innings hundred against England at Chennai in December 2008 - balancing play and personal life, and the influence that his late father had in shaping his career. Source: Indian Express
Sachin for President, Rekha for Speaker
Disbursed Meditations, BY Nandini Krishnan: “What do you think of the Unfollow Sachin trend on Twitter?” “Umm, I wasn’t too concerned about that. I was fighting nightmares about a wrinkles-and-white-hair-tainted Silsila when the nominations for Rajya Sabha were announced.” “Okay, so there was this Unfollow Sachin trend because he was nominated.” “As in, people want him in the Air Force or Army or whatever he’s been given an honorary rank in, and they want him scoring hundreds of hundreds, but they don’t want him sitting in the Rajya Sabha?” “I suppose it goes to show that people’s love of Sachin is overshadowed by their disgust with the netas.” “I think they should make Sachin President.” “Of the Congress?” “Of the nation. Please, he’s a Tendulkar, not a Gandhi. It’s about time we had a young one, no? A young President of the Nation, just so we’re clear.” “Well, we can be relatively sure he won’t forget to salute the flag on his foreign trips.” “Plus, he looks rather more dapper in military uniform than Pratibha Patil.” “And, this could be his surest shot at cornering the Bharat Ratna.” “But we’re being facetious now.” “We’re always facetious.” “No, dude, this is an important decision for me. I’ve taken into account the all-round potential for India’s growth in economy, diplomacy and society before coming up with that.” “You were fantasising about two old women dancing around an old man before coming up with that.” “Please, Rekhaji is never old! In fact, I think the
only way to get the Houses to shut up would be to make her Speaker. More on that later. For now, Sachin. Can you think of anyone else who’s as caste-free, class-free, gender-free, allegiance-free as Sachin? He unites the nation in a way that only anti-gay activism can. Look at the potential for societal growth, for that melting pot we’ve been aspiring for. And because it’s a nominal role – hahaha, pun intended – there’s no question of politics coming into this thing, right?” “Oh, I get where you’re going now. Think of how much our laws will be worth once he’s signed them!” “Yeah, and his signature’s on Wikipedia anyway, so anyone can forge it if the issue gets contentious, na?” “Do you think any issue that requires Presidential consent gets contentious?” “Will he have to handle the pardoning of the Rajiv Gandhi murder case convicts etcetera?” “Oh, I suppose he’ll have high-level talks with Muthiah Muralitharan or something.” “Yes, that brings me to another point. Our government specialises in cricket diplomacy, right? As in, whenever we’re pissed off with some country, the first thing we do is stop playing cricket with them.” “That makes our government sound a little infantile, no?” “Oversimplification is the shortest route to a solution. Amateur political analysts should know that.” “Touché. So, where are you headed with the cricket diplomacy?” “I suppose we can make peace with all our ‘enemy’ countries by playing friendlies with them.” “No, ya, that will only lead to controversy. Like, will they be official or not? Will Sachin’s hundreds in them count or not? Besides, how do you decide who wins? Does India win if India wins, or if the President scores a century?” “You’re right. Maybe they should decide the winner with the coin toss.” “Hey, do you think India and Pakistan will become frands if Imran Khan comes to power there, and Sachin comes to power here?” “Please. We’re having a serious discussion here. Don’t bring Imran Khan into it.” “All right, fine. Sachin for President. Now, let’s move on to Rekha for Speaker.” “Can’t you see her leaning into the mic. and saying shanti ho jaiye?” “No, but I can see her smiling and lifting a bejewelled hand at the House before bringing it to her lips to imply shanti ho jaiye.” “See, Rekhaji makes you spout bad poetic phrases.” “I can also see her saying, ‘But doctor, what about my scars?’” “Yeah, that’s the downside. Somehow, the bad dialogues are the only ones you remember with Rekhaji. Like that other one in Kamasutraabout the lower lip being more sensitive.” “I’m embarrassed to admit I actually tried it. I think it’s true.” “But the good thing is, if the House refuses to shut up, she could always get up and dance.” “The bad thing is, Vidya Balan will probably try to follow her into the House too.” “Well, that’s not so bad for the government. Sabyasachi Mukherjee’ll probably make Didi smile with a new wardrobe, you know.” Source: Disbursed Meditations
only way to get the Houses to shut up would be to make her Speaker. More on that later. For now, Sachin. Can you think of anyone else who’s as caste-free, class-free, gender-free, allegiance-free as Sachin? He unites the nation in a way that only anti-gay activism can. Look at the potential for societal growth, for that melting pot we’ve been aspiring for. And because it’s a nominal role – hahaha, pun intended – there’s no question of politics coming into this thing, right?” “Oh, I get where you’re going now. Think of how much our laws will be worth once he’s signed them!” “Yeah, and his signature’s on Wikipedia anyway, so anyone can forge it if the issue gets contentious, na?” “Do you think any issue that requires Presidential consent gets contentious?” “Will he have to handle the pardoning of the Rajiv Gandhi murder case convicts etcetera?” “Oh, I suppose he’ll have high-level talks with Muthiah Muralitharan or something.” “Yes, that brings me to another point. Our government specialises in cricket diplomacy, right? As in, whenever we’re pissed off with some country, the first thing we do is stop playing cricket with them.” “That makes our government sound a little infantile, no?” “Oversimplification is the shortest route to a solution. Amateur political analysts should know that.” “Touché. So, where are you headed with the cricket diplomacy?” “I suppose we can make peace with all our ‘enemy’ countries by playing friendlies with them.” “No, ya, that will only lead to controversy. Like, will they be official or not? Will Sachin’s hundreds in them count or not? Besides, how do you decide who wins? Does India win if India wins, or if the President scores a century?” “You’re right. Maybe they should decide the winner with the coin toss.” “Hey, do you think India and Pakistan will become frands if Imran Khan comes to power there, and Sachin comes to power here?” “Please. We’re having a serious discussion here. Don’t bring Imran Khan into it.” “All right, fine. Sachin for President. Now, let’s move on to Rekha for Speaker.” “Can’t you see her leaning into the mic. and saying shanti ho jaiye?” “No, but I can see her smiling and lifting a bejewelled hand at the House before bringing it to her lips to imply shanti ho jaiye.” “See, Rekhaji makes you spout bad poetic phrases.” “I can also see her saying, ‘But doctor, what about my scars?’” “Yeah, that’s the downside. Somehow, the bad dialogues are the only ones you remember with Rekhaji. Like that other one in Kamasutraabout the lower lip being more sensitive.” “I’m embarrassed to admit I actually tried it. I think it’s true.” “But the good thing is, if the House refuses to shut up, she could always get up and dance.” “The bad thing is, Vidya Balan will probably try to follow her into the House too.” “Well, that’s not so bad for the government. Sabyasachi Mukherjee’ll probably make Didi smile with a new wardrobe, you know.” Source: Disbursed Meditations
