Timeless Tendulkar turns 21 on the field

Hyderabad, Nov. 15: A journey that began on this very day 21 years ago has crossed innumerable hurdles, set countless benchmarks but the legend of Sachin Ramesh Tendulkar lives on, breaking one record after another.

On Monday, Tendulkar completed 21 years in international cricket and his teammate V.V.S. Laxman saluted the Little Master.

“This was the day when a star was born. His contribution to Indian cricket has been immense. For me, it’s an honour to be playing alongside him. He possesses a child-like enthusiasm and prepares for each and every match as if it’s his first,” Laxman said.

“The way Tendulkar carries himself after having achieved so much in all these years is a lesson for everyone. Success has not changed him one bit as he remains as humble as ever. His passion for the game is infectious,” the Hyderabadi said.

New Zealand opener Tim McIntosh too seemed to be smitten by the Tendulkar mania. “Completing 21 years of international cricket is a fantastic achievement. He is a kind of player you look up to,” the Kiwi said on Monday. “He has been a special cricketer and has given so much to the game and is a true legend,” McIntosh pointed out.

While Karachi was the starting point for the batting genius, this run-making machine continues to be well-oiled and has enough fuel left in its tank to last long, really long.