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/
