As birthday greetings continued to stream in for one of the most influential cricketers in the world to date, Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar received numerous accolades. In a recent ceremony held in the United Arab Emirates, the Sharjah cricket stadium was renamed after one of the finest Indian icons of all time. Notably, Tendulkar’s 50th birthday has resulted in this special recognition.
On Monday, the ‘West Stand’ of the stadium was renamed the ‘Sachin Tendulkar Stand’ in a special ceremony. Fascinatingly, it was on his birthday that the 50-year-old produced one of the most memorable and exhilarating innings in ODI history on the same date in 1998 in Sharjah, which became known as the ‘Desert Storm’ hundred. Not only was it the legend’s ‘half-century’ in terms of age, but it was also the 25th anniversary of his magnificent blow.
Notably, Sachin Tendulkar had scored two historic centuries against a formidable Australian side in the Coca-Cola Cup, a triangular series between India, New Zealand, and Australia. On April 22, Tendulkar performed an outstanding inning against Australia, scoring 143 runs. Obtaining the requisite Net Run Rate (NRR) to qualify for the finals presented India with a formidable challenge in qualifying for the series final. In order to win the match, India had to not only win but also attain the required minimum score with a high asking run rate. But with the positive intent and clean hitting of the batting genius, the inconceivable became a reality.
When another magnificent century arrived, fans were still savoring the pleasure of his special knock. Two days later, on his birthday, April 24, India played the Australians in the final. Sachin Tendulkar once again displayed his batting prowess by smashing 134 runs off 131 deliveries, resulting in a memorable series victory. The Master Blaster in Sharjah has scored seven out of a total of 34 centuries.
Thank you very much to Bukhatir and his team for this generous gesture. Tendulkar
In a special message to the Sharjah cricket authorities, India’s greatest opener, Sachin Tendulkar, recalls the unwavering support and affection he received from cricket supporters. Moreover, he appreciates the incredible atmosphere of a packed stadium and compliments the CEO of the Sharjah stadium, Khalaf Bukhatir, for this kind gesture.
“I wish I could have been there, but I had prior obligations. Always, playing in Sharjah has been a marvelous experience. Sharjah has been a special venue for Indian cricket enthusiasts and lovers of the sport from around the world, from the electrifying atmosphere to the love, affection, and support,” said Tendulkar.
“On the 25th anniversary of the Desert Storm match and my 50th birthday, I would like to express my gratitude to Bukhatir and his staff for this thoughtful gesture. According to the Indian Express, the 50-year-old was quoted as saying, “It feels like the greatest six of them all.”
In response, Bukhatir conveyed his gratitude to Sachin Tendulkar by stating that it was their responsibility to recognize players who have contributed so much to the game of cricket and raised its standard. As a result, as administrators, they continue to pursue the assistance of retired legends in whatever capacity possible. Furthermore, he did not hesitate to acknowledge the Twin Centuries as one of the greatest occasions in cricket history.
“In fact, that was an extraordinary inning, and it was repeated in the championship game. Throughout the years of the now-legendary CBFS initiative, Sharjah has endeavored to recognize the contributions of numerous great players, even after their retirement, according to Bukhatir.
The CEO of Sharjah concluded, “We believe it is our duty as administrators to honor those who have raised the bar and devoted their lives to the cause of cricket, and we will continue to do so.”
The Sharjah cricket stadium claims the Guinness World Record for hosting the most One-Day Internationals (244), more than any other venue. In addition, on Monday, the renowned Sydney Cricket Ground, also known as “The SCG,” unveiled an entrance gate named after Sachin Tendulkar to commemorate his 50th birthday alongside the legendary West Indian, Brian Lara.
India
