An ode to the genius of Sachin R. Tendulkar

I was barely a 4 year old toddler when the child prodigy by the name of Sachin R. Tendulkar made his test match debut against arch rivals Pakistan in 1989-90. He was barely 17 then. Before Sachin made his international debut, Mumbai's cricketing circle was already abuzz with his name. His popularity was increasing by every passing minute.

Several stalwarts of Mumbai who represented India like our very own Little Master Sunil M. Gavaskar and colonel Dilip Vengsarkar had already sounded a warning to bowlers all over the world about the birth of a cricketing genius back then. Of course, who can forget that mammoth 664 runs partnership where Sachin smashed bowlers to all parks of the ground with disdain and almost reduced them to tears.

Legend has it that ace leg spinner, Abdul Qadir had said that this kid won't last long as he (Sachin) was facing a daunting task of facing a master leg spinner in himself and some of the game's tearaway fast bowlers in Imran Khan, Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis. But skipper Imran Khan replied, "This kid with curly locks is going to become a Legend. There is a sparkle in his eyes which I have never seen in anybody's eyes."

Abdul Qadir didn't look amused after hearing it from his skipper. When his turn came to bowl to Sachin, young prodigy stepped out to hit successive 3 sixes off him! He was quick to acknowledge Sachin's genius. And the rest as they say is history.

No other player in the history of this gentleman's game has evoked such adulation than Indian batting genius, Sachin R. Tendulkar. He is clearly a man with the midas touch. And obviously, his simplicity, unwavering passion and dedication towards his craft has made him the second greatest batsman officially behind Sir Donald Bradman. The Don himself confided to his wife that Sachin serves as a distinct reminder of his own batting style. He even invited Sachin on his 90th birth anniversary.

In simple words, there is Sachin and there are others. What's even more amazing is the fact that in spite of carrying the hope of a nation of one billion for 21 years, Sachin's love for the game can give any youngster a run for his money! It would be right to say that Sachin is born to play cricket and to bat like a dream like only he can. If cricket is a religion in India, Sachin is its only God. And his legion of fan following not only in India, but across the globe wherever cricket is being played and watched, proves it right inadvertently.

His trademark Straight Drive is a treat for the eyes as every purist swear by it. Actually Sachin can play every stroke in the cricket book with panache. He is equally at home against both quality pace and spin. Perhaps, he is the most complete player in the history of the game.

His record against the best speaks volume about his extraordinary ability aspired by many. It would be certainly befitting to say that Sachin R. Tendulkar is once in a lifetime cricketer. And I am proud to say he represents India with pride.

What makes Sachin truly special is his simplicity and his humility. In spite of being a super achiever when he was just 25, he has always remained an astute student of the game. In his 21st glorious year in International cricket, Sachin has amassed mountain of runs whether in Test cricket or One Day Internationals. In India especially Mumbai, it is believed, "His coach Ramakant Achrekar was Dronacharya and Sachin is Arjun of India and world cricket."

His unassuming humble demeanor makes him a venerable icon that every parent wants their child to emulate. Mathew Hayden, a marauding former opening batsman of Australia paid a rich tribute to Sachin's genius,"I have seen god bat, he bats at no. 4 for Indian Test team." It sums it all.

On 3rd August, 2010, Sachin is going to add another beautiful feather in his already glittering cap. Tomorrow, he will become the most capped player in the history of Test cricket with his 169th Test cap! A record to celebrate and cherish. Without an iota of a doubt, I can say that Sachin is the God's own child!

Being a Sachin fanatic all the way, it's been a honour to watch the 'Genius at work' for past 21 years and many more to come with god's grace. With all heartfelt gratitude, I wish to offer my genuine tribute to the Gulliver of Cricket and the modern Don of World Cricket - Sachin R. Tendulkar. A name that will forever be etched on the hearts of his legion of fanatics forever! Long Live Sachin! Long Live his legacy! Hail Sachin R. Tendulkar! Come join me in taking a bow to the genius. \m/

Paul, the Octopus turns into Nostradamus of the animal kingdom

Whole world is going gaga over Paul,the psychic Octopus. When the FIFA World Cup began, so did the journey of Paul towards becoming an icon. He has more than fulfilled his prophecy as he has been predicting the results with pin point accuracy.

Football fans across the world are mesmerized by Paul, the tentacled marvel. No other animal has evoked mass hysteria like Paul has. He has already become the darling of the masses especially the Spanish speaking populace.

Getting the prediction right once may be considered a fluke by the most. But getting it right for almost 5 consecutive times is a gift even though logic defies the claim. If you have ever heard of sixth sense, this must be it.

No, I am not referring to Manoj Shyamalan and Bruce Willis starrer, 'Sixth Sense'. But you cannot help but marvel at this eight tentacled Oracle Octopus called Paul.

He has taken the world by storm. Today, his popularity can even rival some of the star footballers who failed to live up to their reputations and expectations from their dejected fans.

If his predictions of the grand finale comes true, then, Paul will be immortalized as the greatest animal psychic reader of all time. So much so that he will be hailed as the Nostradamus of the animal kingdom. His popularity has soared as he has captivated the imagination of the entire world with his accurate gift of prediction.

I will rejoice and celebrate with the Spanish fans as Spain happens to be one of my most favourite European nations.

Now getting back to the grand finale, Paul has clearly declared SPAIN as the victor of the final against the flying Dutch. Whole of Spain will rejoice at his prediction and will become a toast of their entire nation.

When Germany lost, some frustrated German fans vowed to eat Paul and would relish every morsel of him. It was stated in the press by the Spanish officials that they will offer protection to the revered Paul, the eight tentacled Oracle Octopus from those who are baying for his blood.

If paul gets it right inadvertently on the midnight of Sunday, then he will cement his legacy as the 'Psychic Reader who always got it right'.

My mind says Spain and amazingly, my heart says Spain in unison.

This year, a champion tennis player who answers to the call of 'Rafa' aka Rafael Nadal, has won his second prestigious Wimbledon title. Congratulations to Spanish matador, Rafael Nadal!!

More importantly, When he won his maiden Wimbledon title, Spain went on to win their first ever major world tournament, European Championship in 2008. This year, Rafael Nadal went on to win his second Wimbledon title. Signs are ominous that Spain will seal their most famous victory in the 2010 FIFA World Cup grand finale and end their title drought.

What better motivation than having Mallorcan muscleman, Rafael Nadal cheering on the Spanish Football team tomorrow midnight just like he decimates his opponent. This year promises to be the 'Year of Spain in sports'.

Mind says Germany as heart says Spain in today's world cup Semi-final clash

After epic battles since the qualifiers, we have reached the business end of this prestigious football tournament. Now that flying dutch have already sealed their Final berth yesterday with a thrilling win over feisty Uruguay despite Diego Forlan's heroics.

Today's game reminds me of 2008 European Championships Final where this two great teams clashed for the Europe's supremacy. Then Spain emerged triumphant after El Nino, Fernando Torres scored the solitary goal in the 34th minute of the first half. When the final whistle was blown by the referee, Spain won their first ever major world championship.

Their history suggests that they are perennial underachievers of the world football. But this talented team has turned it around remarkably.

It's safe to say that they are on the cusp of history as glory beckons them. But today, a formidable adversary stands in front of them in the shape and form of rampaging Germany. They have decimated the team of the caliber of Argentina and silenced their critics for once and for all with their uncharacteristic blitzkrieg attacking game.

It has impressed everyone and left their critics gasping for breath. Some of them went to the extent of saying in an unabashed manner that this German team reminded them of the great Brazilian teams of yesteryear when they had legends like Romario, Ronaldo, Rivaldo, Ronaldinho, Roberto Carlos in their prime.

This German team commands respect and admiration of football fans across the beautiful globe. History suggests that this is the youngest German team sent to conquer the World Cup once again with their breathtaking assault on their opponents.

When you have precocious, young talent in the form of Bastian Schweinsteiger, Thomas Mueller, Mesut Oezil, Lukas Podolski to go along side seasoned pro like Miroslav Klose, then it will indeed be an arduous task for their opponents.

This is where Spanish Matadors have come into their own. They too boast of a dream lineup in the form of super striker, David Villa who happens to be a joint highest goal scorer and in hot pursuit of Golden Boot alongside a Flying Dutchman, Wesley Sneijder.

But this Spanish team commands the best midfield in the world in the form of Andres Iniesta, Xavi Hernandes, Xabi Alonso and Sergio Busquets along side central attacking defender Sergio Ramos and an agile goalkeeper, Iker Casillas. Their defense looks solid with Carles Puyol and Gerard Pique guarding the Spanish goal.

In the end, a team which controls the game from the outset and set the pace will end up being triumphant. This is where Spanish trio of super Xavi Hernandes, delightful Xabi Alonso & their decorated midfield maestro, Andres Iniesta control the tempo of the game with their sublime passing game.

As the German coach, Joaquim Loew said in the press conference, "There are several Messi's in this Spain lineup." It sums it all.

Many reckon that this is going to be the best match of this competition and will perfectly fit the bill of 'Final before the Final' clash.

My mind says Germany, but my heart says Spain!

Who will reign supreme in today's Semi-final clash? - The flying Dutchmen or the impressive Uruguay

First semi-final promises to be an extra ordinary battle between two continents - Europe represented by 'Flying Dutch', the Nederland against the Americas represented by the South Americans, Uruguay. They are two time former world champions. Even though they did it decades back before even I was born!

Nederland by history is known for their popular 'Total Football' approach which was adapted by their legendary play maker, Johann Cruyff. They are known for their beautiful style that is pleasing for the eyes.

Today, the elegant style of play started by their former legends has been passed on for generations. It is beautifully adopted by their current crop of players. Dutch is a joy to watch when in full flight. They have world class forwards and play maker in Wesley Sneijder, Rafael Van Der Vaart, Robin Van Persie and their masterful Arjen Robben.

Their defense looks solid with defensive midfielder, Mark Van Bommel and Heitenga handling their defensive duties in a safe and sound way.

But they need to overcome the constant menace of Diego Forlan. He has finally come alive in this world cup. This has been a renaissance time for Uruguay's Diego Forlan. He may not be as gifted as the Diego Maradona.

But he has given a glimpse into his abundant talent which has eluded him for his club sides so far.

He is simply amazing in set piece situations. His stunning free kick against Ghana which beat Ghana's goalkeeper fair and square was an unmistakable sign of his class which had been dormant till this mega event commenced.

In today's clash, the onus is completely with him to inflict an excruciating pain on the 'Flying Dutchmen'.

At least before the match is underway, Nederland starts as an overwhelming favourite.

Is there a last twist left in this World Cup before the grand finale? Only time will perhaps tell a different tale.

Who will it be today - samba boys Brazil or the elegant Dutch?

2010 Football World Cup is surely reaching a crescendo as first Quarter Final is about to kick off in few minutes. It will feature perennial favourites, Brazil takes on the impressive Dutch. I will be watching this 'Clash of Titans' with hawk eyes as this has a potential World Cup winner or at least, a Finalist.

What excites me is that it promises to be a close contest and a riveting one at that too. Hopefully, knowing the style of Brazil and Nederlands, there will be no dearth of exhilarating moments in store over the next 90 minutes. Both sides are known for their attractive style of football.

Over the years, Brazil has metamorphosed into a strong defensive unit who is rampaging on a counter attack. Unlike the star studded teams of the past, they play a waiting game to perfection. One mistake by the Dutch and Kaka, Danny Alves, Maicon, Luis Fabiano, Robinho and co. will ready to punish them severely.

But Dutch have the fire power in their arsenal as well with Arjen Robben marked a successful return after an injury lay off. Besides, Robben, Wesley Sneijder is in top striking form as well. Although Robin Van Persie caused a flutter with his outburst against their coach. He would like to forget his inane accusation that created quite a flutter in the Dutch squad and jitters in the Dutch camp.

I feel, Brazil although they do not possess the menacing Ronaldo - Rivaldo duo, terrific Ronaldinho and lightning quick Roberto Carlos anymore. But they have discovered new exciting talent who take more pride in representing their beloved country whose record has been nothing but phenomenal in arguably the most premiere tournament in sports history, Football World Cup.

Although they are not in the top gear, today, we may see them getting into the stride and mesmerize the Dutch before they know what hit them!

Get ready for an exhilarating football between two giants of the game. Sit back and enjoy the action unfold.

Viva La Brazil!

sPAINFUL defeat sees Portugal crash out of 2010 Football World Cup!

Even as the match of Asian giant Japan was in progress against South Americans, Paraguay, my mind was veering towards the titanic clash of Spain v/s Portugal.

Such was the media hype surrounding the clash between these two Iberian neighbours that it was more than a football match. It was a matter of pride. Whichever country would have triumphed would have gone on to book their semi final berth against docile Paraguay. Anticipation of an exhilarating finish was always in the offing.

Considering the strike force of attractive Spanish team comprising of super strikers in roaring David Villa & El Nino, Fernando Torres actually looked like regaining his touch post his injury.

When it began, Portugal created lots opportunities but failed to drive home the early advantage. Hugo Almeida flattered to deceive alongside their talismanic captain Cristiano Ronaldo. He had a one decent go at the goal but was carefully negotiated by Iker Casillas. It did give him a jitter as Portugal once again failed to convert his mistake into an opening goal.

More than a match of skills, it was also a battle of nerves. And Spain held their nerves thanks to their mid-field maestros - Andres Iniesta, Xavi Hernandez & Xabi Alonso along with their Central 'Attacking' defender, Sergio Ramos.

Andres Iniesta moved in with purpose towards the Portuguese goal and made a skillful pass to ever lurking David Villa who scored on the rebound. Simply, it was an ultimate warning to semi finalists, Paraguay. Such is the quality of this Spanish squad that a player of the caliber of Cesc Fabregas has to sit out!

If they play to their true potential, they are going to advance to clinch their semi-final berth. Like Argentina, Germany & Brazil, they have the arsenal to lift this coveted trophy of the world's most premier tournament.

Spanish juggernaut that began with the triumph in European Championships that shed their tag of perennial under achievers has done them a world of good. It has gathered momentum at the right time. Their coach, Vincente Del Bosque has unified the squad marvelously well.

But the road ahead is steeper with even more powerful opponents await them. Spain knows it very well that reputation counts for very little in the end. But Brazil, Argentina & Germany has shown their ruthless form. They are the team to beat.

May the best team triumph!

Argentina thrashed Mexico 3 -1 with their flair play

I was privileged to have witnessed the march of Argentina against the exuberant Mexico team yesterday. Today as I write this, I am fully convinced that if my personal favourite team, Argentina, plays to their potential like they have done so far. I feel, they are on their way to the Finals. But again Quarter Final promises to be another nail biting match with one European powerhouse with an enviable record, while another is a South American giant who is taking giant strides in this World Cup.

Let me assure you that it is going to be mother of all quarter finals as they are two of the strongest contenders to win the world cup.

Argentina is on the move and in the right groove. They have the most potent strike force in the form of super impressive troika - Lionel Messi, Gonzalo Higuain and Carlos Tevez. Obviously their presence is enough to send jitters in the opposition camps. In this world cup, Argentina has responded marvelously to their legendary coach, Diego Maradona.

When he assumed the mantle of coaching the young and talented Argentinian squad, his critics went into hyper drive criticisizing his maverick ways. And how he loves hogging the lime light being a quintessential prima donna. He is truly unpredictable as most geniuses are. But this time, I am glad that one of my demi gods have proven them wrong as results are for everyone to see.

Besides, it is such a joy to watch the great man on the sidelines in his new bearded avtaar. Maradona always shared love-hate relationship with the media. But this time around, he is focused and it seems, young Argentinian squad is getting inspired with their demi god by their side.

Argentina displayed their flair and attacking prowess with their 3 impressive goals. They are playing as a cohesive unit rather than as individual superstars. I have been their avid fan ever since I became a die hard fan of this beautiful game. There is something alluring about Argentina which makes them so alluring as a sports nation and as a country as a whole.

I have a strong gut feel that this is going to be Argentina and Messi's world cup. He is in supreme touch as he is continually terrorizing opposition defense by providing excellent passes to Gonzalo Higuain and Carlos Tevez. Even though goals have eluded him so far, but he is instrumental in most of the goals which Argentina has scored.

It is such a joy to watch this young superstar who is just 22 years old in full flight dazzling opposition and fans with his mesmerizing genius. The fact that he hasn't got on the goal scoring sheet yet proves that Argentina is more than just Messi. He is everything which Juan Roman Riquelme couldn't. Plus, he is a complete team player which makes him an asset to Barcelona and Argentina.

Carlos Tevez has truly come of age with his tenacious, never say attitude as he is gifted with deadly acceleration which makes Argentina's opponents a continuous migraine with his presence. Gonzalo Higuain has shown his finesse and goal poaching ability for his club Real Madrid. But now he is showing it on the grandest stage of them all - 2010 World Cup.

Mardona's boys have sounded a warning to their opponents and given tremendous hope to their ardent fans back home and those around the world. They are the only team which is playing like Brazil of the 2002!

Germany although trounced England with their superiority seems to have found their match in Argentina! It's going to be a nail biter if Argentina keeps up their impressive run then, German machine will catch the Argentinian rust in their engine of efficiency. May the best team on the day triumph!

Don't MESSi with Argentina!!! Hail Messi. Hail Maradona. \m/

From World War to World Cup War - Germany V/S England

Second World War memories will be revisited in few minutes time as former second world war adversaries, Germany and England clashes in the second knock out match in the Round of 16. From the second world war ( 1939 - 1945) battlefield then, whole football world's focus now shifts to South Africa where battle is about to begin.

Traditionally, in the world of Football, Germany is an perennial achiever with 3 World Cups triumphs and as many European championships. Their cabinet is being adorned by their successful campaigns of the past as an indisputable force to reckon with. They possess enviable record when it comes to performing under intense pressure as they simply relishes the big stage.

Beautiful game as the football is rightly called, Germany is not an attractive team when it comes to flamboyance of the South Americans i.e. Brazil & Argentina, nor do they possess the finesse of Spain or Netherlands. But they are mighty effective when it comes to achieving and keep their proud German flag flying strong.

They have done this over the years as they possessed some of the greatest names right from World Cup winner Franz Beckenbauer to another legendary German and a World Cup winner, Lothar Mattheus who won it in 1990.

Lot has changed since the second war ended. But when it comes to Football, German juggernaut just rolls on sans style unlike other title contenders in this world cup edition.

Today, Germany commands a young team which is dynamic and possess flair for an attacking game unlike their predecessors of the past. Any side which possessing likes of Miroslav Klose, Bastien Schweinsteiger, Lukas Podolski, tearing forward Mesut Ozil as attacking troika. Their defense is not what it used to be. But it is still the best defense in the competition as it is led from the front by their captain, Phillip Lahm.

On the other hand is England which are known as perennial underachievers. Although they have won their lone World Cup way back in 1966 under Sir Bobby Charlton as he is called. Today, England possess golden generation at their disposal. Man to man, they can contest even the best of teams. But when it comes to performing on the biggest, grandest of stage, they somehow fizzle out. But this could be an abberration waiting to happen.

Any team which possess an enviable pool of supremely gifted players such as Wayne Rooney, Steven Gerrard, Frank Lampard, Ashley Cole, Joe Cole and with talented players like Aryeon Lennon as the super sub, makes them a favourite but only if they play as a team rather than as individuals.

Opening 18 minutes, game has a sedate start. But I am having a sneaky feeling that something is going to happen.

I am rooting for Germany as I love their Automobile engineering marvels of Mercedes, Mini Cooper, Opel, Audi, Volkswagen, Porsche & BMW, I love their football and country as a whole.

As I write, Miroslav Klose, their super striker scores their opening goal taking his tally to 12 in World Cups. He is simply incredible, ain't he?

I would like to conclude by saying, 'Cometh the hour, Cometh the Man'. And Miroslav Klose is the man which I and Germany's fans look for inspiration.

Hail Germany's super efficiency and their glorious culture which makes it a powerhouse of Europe.