Cricket legend meets President Murmu, reflects on his journey and childhood coach
New Delhi, February 7: Cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar on Thursday recalled India’s 2011 World Cup victory, describing it as the greatest moment of his life—one he wishes to relive.
Tendulkar, accompanied by his wife Anjali Tendulkar and daughter Sara Tendulkar, met President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Speaking at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Vimarsh Shrinkhala event, the cricket legend reflected on his career-defining achievements and the influence of his childhood coach, Ramakant Achrekar.
“Would Love to Relive 2011 World Cup Victory” – Tendulkar
“2011 World Cup is a memory I would like to relive. The journey and dream that started in 1983. I made many attempts, failed, but never lost hope. So, that’s the best moment of my life,” Tendulkar said.
India’s historic World Cup win in 2011 ended a 28-year drought, as the Men in Blue lifted the trophy after defeating Sri Lanka by six wickets in the final at Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai.
In the summit clash, Sri Lanka posted 274/6 in 50 overs, thanks to an unbeaten 103 by Mahela Jayawardene*. Chasing 275, India lost Virender Sehwag (0) and Sachin Tendulkar (18) early, but a stellar 83-run stand between Gautam Gambhir (97) and Virat Kohli (35) revived the innings. Skipper MS Dhoni (91)* finished the chase in style with a six, sealing India’s second World Cup title.
Tendulkar Pays Tribute to Childhood Coach Ramakant Achrekar
Speaking about his early days, Tendulkar credited Ramakant Achrekar for instilling discipline and resilience in him.
“Achrekar Sir played a great part in my life. He used to take me to five different nets to bat during summer holidays. He ensured that we never took shortcuts, and that made me mentally strong,” said the 51-year-old.
Achrekar, who was instrumental in shaping Tendulkar’s career, received the Dronacharya Award (1990) and the Padma Shri (2010) before passing away in 2019.
Honored with Lifetime Achievement Award at BCCI Awards
Earlier this week, Tendulkar was honored with the Col. CK Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award at the BCCI Awards in Mumbai.
Known as the “God of Cricket,” he still holds the record for the most runs in Test and ODI cricket, along with the unique milestone of 100 international centuries.
Tendulkar’s Unmatched Legacy in Cricket
Sachin Tendulkar’s career spanned from 1989 to 2013, during which he achieved unparalleled records in cricket history:
- Total International Runs: 34,357 runs (664 matches)
- Test Matches: 15,921 runs (51 centuries, 68 fifties)
- ODIs: 18,426 runs (49 centuries, 96 fifties)
- First Cricketer to Score a Double Century in ODIs
- Most Test Matches Played (200)
Tendulkar made his Test debut on November 15, 1989, at just 16 years old, and played his first ODI a month later on December 18, 1989.
His World Cup dream, which began in 1992, finally came true in 2011, cementing his legacy as one of cricket’s greatest players.