26 years ago, a new era began in the world of cricket, and that era came to an end on 16th November 2013. It’s two years since the Little Master retired from International Cricket. Sachin’s retirement from cricket meant the end to the world of cricket for millions. For them, the game was always about Sachin. Millions watched the 200th test match like it was a T20 match. It was the last time they could see God playing Cricket. And that emotional farewell speech touched everyone’s heart. His speech“My life, between 22 yards…” left almost every fan in tears. The speech followed by the ‘Sachin Sachin’ cheer by the audience made the farewell an unforgettable one for every cricket fan in India.
Sachin has given us a lot of moments to cherish for years and years. Here are some of those wonderful moments that Sachin has gifted us.
1. The 2011 World cup
This had to top the list. This was a proud moment not only for Sachin’s fans but for the entire nation. For Sachin’s fans, it was even more special because that was one moment Sachin had dreamt of all his life. Sachin described this as the proudest moment of his life.There couldn’t be a happier moment for the entire team.”Tendulkar has carried the burden of the nation for 21 years. It was the time we carried him”, said Kohli while he and his teammates took Sachin on their shoulders.
2.The double century
No one deserved to achieve this milestone better than Sachin. That 200* strike against South Africa was an apt reply to everyone who said that it was high time Sachin retired from International Cricket. He proved them all wrong. It is rightly said, ” Action speaks louder than words’.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UEn0V0q3oe8
3. The Desert Storm
Sachin’s innings of 143 against Australia in Sharjah during the Coca-Cola cup of 1998 is one innings that left everyone awestruck. He made this runs on swirling dust, and thus it came to be known as The Desert Storm and the sandstorm innings. It was really a one-person battle. Though India lost the match, the team qualified for the finals, which India eventually won. (Sachin scored a century in the finals too). India required 237 from 46 overs to pass New Zealand on run rate. Sachin helped India to achieve the target in just 42 overs.
4. 100th ton
Now that was one innings that had put an end to a year-long wait of every Sachin fan. He scored his 100th ton on 16 March 2012 against Bangladesh at the Shere Bangla stadium in Mirpur. These innings also marked the end of the nervous 90s. Interestingly, this was also his first ODI century against Bangladesh.
5. The Bharat Ratna
On 4th February 2014, President Pranab Mukherjee conferred Sachin with Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honor. He became the first Indian sportsman to receive this honor. But what made it even more special is that he dedicated this award to all the mothers of India for the sacrifice they have made in raising their children. Now that’s a true legend.
6. Cricket All-Stars
Happiness is watching Sachin on the field. And what can give more happiness to a Sachin fan than watching him play cricket once more? The Cricket All-Stars has brought together retired legendary cricketers. This is one series that every Sachin fan had been eagerly waiting for. It was the return of cricket itself for many. Winning or losing did not matter anymore for them.
This is not the end. I am sure each one of you will have a special memory to share about Sachin. Feel free to share your favorite memories of Sachin in the comment section below!