Master on the field, Tendulkar takes flight off it too

Since he took off 21 years ago, Sachin Tendulkar continues to fly high. For the Air Force, he is a Group Captain but in cricket's ranks, he is the undisputed Field Marshal.

Since he took off 21 years ago, Sachin Tendulkar continues to fly high. For the Air Force, he is a Group Captain but in cricket's ranks, he is the undisputed Field Marshal.

HT Image

After two decades in the business, Sachin is a record-shattering genius, the senior-most player on the planet, and cricket's respected elder statesman. When he talks, everyone listens. When he suggests a split in innings in 50-over games, even the deaf ICC gets the message. When IPL parties are held responsible for India's pathetic performance, Sachin's measured response ---players must understand their body and realise their responsibilities --- closes the debate.

Sachin's influence stretches beyond cricket - he is India's most loved son, an inspiration for youth. Already, his birthday is a national festival and there is a growing demand that he gets the Bharat Ratna. As the years roll by, Sachin realises he has an opportunity to do more than set records. Conscious of the power he commands, he knows he can leave a lasting imprint away from cricket. At one level, he’s a marketable celebrity, but there’s also a different side to Sachin. In this role, he appeals to Mumbaikars to conserve water and urges kids to eat eggs to stay healthy. Sachin bats for challenged children with the same enthusiasm he demonstrates while putting away a half volley and fights polio like he attacks a short ball.