On top always

Sachin Tendulkar, well really just Tendulkar. First memories when he first made his test debut I was at my uncle's place and one of my aunts pointed out at this 16 year old kid on TV. I distinctly remember that afternoon looking at that b/w tv. I was just beginning to understand cricket.That was 1989.

THe next memory was hs 53 run assult on Abdul Qadir. India lost the match but that innings, those straight drives over the fence.
From then on till the recent past he has defined indian cricket for me. I became a cricket fan, wasted lot of time, including watching the 1997 India WestIndies Cricket series during my +2 exams, at night. If I have done stupid things to watch cricket match during school and early college days, its mainly cause of the hope that Sachins blade held out.

Then it was his exploits in Sarjah, desert storm, especially against Australia. He single handedly won that series against Australia.

His domination of Shane Warne on that Australia's tour. That innings in Australia where he was not confident of cover drive so, didnt play that shot at all.

His partnership with Azhar in South Africa. That evening I left home in disgust after another battign collapse and when i returned late in the evening from a tution, they were still batting ! and his assault against Sohaib Akhtar in World cup against Pak.

Taht century in Perth

Straight drive, pull over midwicket, cover drive and lately the uppercut.

And not a single dirty word on the pitch.

Apart from his cricketting achievements. whats more commendable is the way he has carried himself. From tennage days through early 20s with all the fame, a whole country watching, never a hint of arrogance. WHen Pepsi contracted Sachin his comment was, this is a big deal but I got to be careful about the brands I am endorsing , cause lot of youngsters look up to me. And that was in his early 20s.

He has ofcourse passed his prime, maybe the next worldcup would be his last. But the memory will remain forever. Thank you Tendulkar for those moments.

Today another statistic, highest aggregate test score.

As somone rightly pointed out " A hero who has taken on the best of the world and prevailed" A big thing for us Indians who dont have many sporting heroes.