Ranchi, 20 April - Former Indian cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar arrived at Ranchi Airport accompanied by his wife, Anjali, on Saturday morning. The couple was greeted with enthusiasm by a crowd of fans at Birsa Munda Airport. Tendulkar expressed his purpose for the visit, stating that he was in Ranchi for his foundation's work, particularly focusing on promoting women's football through the Sachin Tendulkar Foundation's collaboration with the Youth Foundation.

Tendulkar elaborated that the Sachin Tendulkar Foundation is closely involved with the Youth Foundation in Ormanjhi, where girls are being trained in football. His visit aims to encourage and support these young female athletes. The program at the Yuva Foundation in Ormanjhi is scheduled to include a meeting with the girls involved in the football training program.

The district administration, including Ranchi DC Rahul Kumar Sinha, ensured the security arrangements for Tendulkar's visit.

Renowned for his cricketing prowess, Sachin Tendulkar was appointed a national icon by the Election Commission of India last year. The Election Commission's decision aimed to boost voter participation, and Tendulkar's agreement with them spans three years.

New Delhi, Jan 7 (IANS) Amid calls for 'Boycott Maldives’ trend on social media, cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar shared a post where he highlighted the Indian islands' -- Sindhudurg -- beauty.

Tendulkar posted a video where he shared his experience of visiting Sindhudurg on his 50th birthday.

The former Indian captain wrote on X, "250+ days since we rang in my 50th birthday in Sindhudurg! The coastal town offered everything we wanted, and more. Gorgeous locations combined with wonderful hospitality left us with a treasure trove of memories. India is blessed with beautiful coastlines and pristine islands. With our “Atithi Devo Bhava” philosophy, we have so much to explore, so many memories waiting to be created #ExploreIndianIslands."

Notably, 'Boycott Maldives' started trending on social media after a Maldives minister and some citizens posted anti-India comments on X.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently visited Lakshadweep. He praised the beauty of Lakshadweep, "Recently, I had the opportunity to be among the people of Lakshadweep. I am still in awe of the stunning beauty of its islands and the incredible warmth of its people. I had the opportunity to interact with people in Agatti, Bangaram and Kavaratti. I thank the people of the islands for their hospitality. Here are some glimpses, including aerial glimpses from Lakshadweep."

However, several Maldvians and ministers of the country targeted PM Modi.

Mumbai, Dec 3 (IANS) Actor Vicky Kaushal expressed his excitement as his 'childhood hero' Sachin Tendulkar watched his recently released film 'Sam Bahadur', saying he will cherish his words for a lifetime.

‘Sam Bahadur’ is based on the legendary Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw.

The film also stars Fatima Sana Shaikh, and Sanya Malhotra in lead roles.

During the special screening of the movie, Sachin can be seen saying to the paparazzi in a video: "Bahut acchi film hai. Jarur dekhiyega. I was super impressed by Vicky’s acting. Dekh ke aisa laga ki actual me Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw saamne hain hamare. The body language was incredible. If you want to know the history of our country, then you should definitely watch this movie. It is very important for every generation."

Taking to Instagram, Vicky shared a happy click with former Indian cricketer Sachin, wherein the ‘URI’ actor can be seen in a black long sleeve tee and denims. Sachin is wearing a blue shirt and cream coloured pants.

Vicky captioned the post as: “My childhood hero saw my Film today! #IAmOk !!! Thank you @sachintendulkar Sir for your kind words... l'll cherish them for a lifetime.”

The actor gave the music of the song ‘Banda’ to his post.

Saiyami Kher commented on the post and said: “Most special”.

Comedian Zakir Khan dropped red heart emojis on the post.

Produced by RSVP Movies, the movie is directed by Meghna Gulzar.

New Delhi, Nov 20 (IANS) Sachin Tendulkar, the cricket legend, extended his congratulations to Australia for securing their sixth ODI World Cup victory and also conveyed a heartfelt message to the Indian team, praising their relentless efforts in the tournament.

India won 10 straight matches to reach the final on home soil, but were beaten on the day by an Australian side who delivered in all facets of the game to run out winners by six wickets to lift their sixth men's ODI World Cup title on Sunday.

Sachin acknowledged Australia's superior cricket performance while also praising the Men in Blue for their dedicated efforts throughout the tournament.

"Congratulations to Australia on their sixth World Cup win. On the most important day of the biggest stage, they played better cricket.

Hard luck Team India, just one bad day in an otherwise sterling tournament can be heartbreaking. I can imagine the agony of the players, fans and well-wishers and what they must be going through. Losses are a part of the sport but let us remember that this unit gave their all for us throughout the tournament," Sachin wrote on social media platform X.

Jay Shah, the Secretary of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), also praised the Indian team's unyielding spirit and their relentless attitude that never wavers.

"Although the Men in Blue may have fallen short in the Cricket World Cup 2023 finals against Australia, their journey has left an indelible mark of inspiration. From triumph to tribulation, each match became a testament to the unwavering spirit, determination, and skill of our team. Winning all 10 matches leading up to the finals, they showcased the true essence of cricket – a game that is as unpredictable as it is beautiful.

"The entire nation rallied behind our boys, transforming this World Cup into a nationwide celebration of cricket in India. The energy, passion, and unyielding support from the entire population were truly incredible," Shah wrote a long post on X.

"To every single member of Team India, I express heartfelt gratitude. Your dedication, hard work, and perseverance have provided moments of pure joy throughout this tournament. You've made us proud, not just with your victories, but with the way you've played the game – with heart, with pride, and with a never-say-die attitude.

"This World Cup wasn't just about the wins; it was about the emotions, the camaraderie, and the indomitable spirit of Team India. Thank you for the joy and the unforgettable moments. Here's to the Men in Blue – true champions in every sense. The journey may have ended, but the pride and love for our team will resonate forever," the post further read.

Kolkata, Nov 6 (IANS) Former Australia cricketer and two-time World Cup winning captain Ricky Ponting believes a monkey is off Virat Kohli’s back after equalling with legendary India batter Sachin Tendulkar for the most number of centuries in ODIs.

At the Eden Gardens on Sunday, Kohli equalled Tendulkar's record of 49 ODI centuries with a brilliant 101 not out against South Africa on his 35th birthday, as India won by 243 runs to keep its winning run going. Kohli now has a total of 543 runs at this edition of the Men’s ODI World Cup at a gigantic average of 108.60.

"That might be a bit of a monkey off his back. I think he has been working extra hard to equal Sachin’s record. That’s done now and it has happened at a really good time at the tournament for him. One more game to go and then they head into the semi-finals. It was an almost perfect day for Virat and a great day for India," said Ponting in an ICC Digital Daily episode.

The century against South Africa in Kolkata was Kohli's second hundred of the tournament and fourth overall in all Men’s ODI World Cups. Ponting feels Kohli should be considered the best ODI batter of all time.

"There is no doubt he is the absolute best and I have said that for a long time. He didn’t need to equal Sachin's record, he doesn’t need to break the record. If you look at his overall batting record it is incredible. To think that he got 49 ODI hundreds and equalled Sachin and in 175 less innings is unbelievable,” he added.

After India posted 326/5, Ravindra Jadeja took 5-33 as South Africa were bowled out for 83 in 27.1 overs, thus maintaining their clean slate in the competition. India now have three bowlers among the top 10 wicket-takers of the tournament - Mohammad Shami (16), Jasprit Bumrah (15) and Jadeja (14).

Ponting believes opposition teams have their task cut out in the quest to counter a ferocious challenge from the Indian bowling line-up. India still have their final league match against the Netherlands at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on November 12.

"What we have seen in this World Cup so far, is that India’s bowling attack has clearly been the best. Opposition teams are going to have to put a lot of analysis into how they play Bumrah, how they are going to play (Mohammed) Siraj, as they need to get on top of these guys early. Because if they don’t, their spinners will come and get you in the middle of the game," concluded Ponting.

Kolkata, Nov 5 (IANS) Virat Kohli on Sunday brought up his 49th century in One-day International cricket and equalled the record held by batting legend Sachin Tendulkar for most ODI centuries while scoring an unbeaten 101 against South Africa at the Eden Gardens on Sunday.

Kohli’s handy century came in 119 balls comprising ten boundaries. Kohli scored his 49th hundred in only his 289th ODI, 173 matches faster than the legendary Tendulkar, who got there in his 463rd match. 

On Sunday, Kohli scored his unbeaten 101 off 121 deliveries. The 34-year-old batter also racked up his 79th hundred for India, 21 short of Sachin’s world record of 100 centuries.

Earlier, Kohli became only the second Indian batter after Sachin Tendulkar to score 3000 runs against South Africa in international cricket.

In the match against Sri Lanka at the Wankhede Stadium a few days back, Kohli set the record for most 1000-run years in ODIs in men’s cricket (8), breaking the previous record of Tendulkar, who scored 1000 runs in a calendar year seven times.

Kohli has been in great form in the World Cup. He is the third-highest run-getter in the World Cup 2023 with 442 runs, hitting four half-centuries and one century.

New Delhi, Oct 10 (IANS) Former Australian cricket legend Ricky Ponting has expressed his support for Indian cricket star Virat Kohli to surpass former teammate Sachin Tendulkar's record for the most centuries in One Day Internationals (ODIs) during the ongoing ICC Men's Cricket World Cup.

Kohli has scored an impressive 47 centuries in 282 ODIs, coming within two centuries of Tendulkar's enduring record of 49 centuries in 463 ODIs.

Sachin also tops the charts for the highest run tally in the 50-over format with an impressive 18,426 runs while Kohli has ODI 13168 runs under his belt.

With at least eight more ODIs to come for India at the 2023 World Cup, Ponting has backed Kohli to reach Sachin's record during the tournament on home soil.

"I think he will. I think he'll definitely get two hundreds, whether he gets the three is another thing," Ponting said on the latest episode of The ICC Review podcast.

"But the venues, the wickets and the grounds in India are just so conducive to scoring, making big runs. Who knows with him, it's probably his last World Cup as well.

“If he gets that mindset, and we saw that he's in pretty good touch, and we know with him he's always hungry. He's a winner, he wants success for himself and for his team.

“There is every chance at the end of this World Cup he could be equal with, if not breaking Sachin’s record, which is remarkable within itself," he said.

The 34-year-old has overcome a lean patch without an ODI century between August 2019 and December 2022 to add four hundreds in 15 innings since then.

"Forty-nine one-day international hundreds is amazing. But he deserves that, he works hard. You watch him even in the field, game one, he just looks ultra fit, is up for the contest every ball whether it's in the field or with these batting hands. So I'd never write him off," Ponting added.

The right-hander has scored two centuries in past Cricket World Cups, notably achieving an unbeaten 100 in his tournament debut against Bangladesh in 2011.

Kohli scored his first ODI ton with 107 against Sri Lanka in December 2009, and most recently reached three figures in the format with unbeaten 122 against Pakistan in the Asia Cup Super Four last month.

Varanasi (UP), Sep 20 (IANS) Master blaster Sachin Tendulkar and veteran cricketers Sunil Gavaskar and Ravi Shastri are likely to participate in the foundation stone-laying ceremony of the international cricket stadium by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Ganjari here on September 23.

New Delhi, Sep 8 (IANS) Former India captain Sourav Ganguly went on a memory lane over his friendship with Sachin Tendulkar, saying the legendary right-handed batter was a far more superior cricketer than him, a view which he strongly believes in.

“I first met Sachin when he was 14 years old at the MRF Pace Academy and over time we would go on to spend 6-7 months in a year together and developed a close friendship and trust over time.”

“As a cricketer, he was a far superior cricketer than me, and that is something I strongly believe in. To raise your game, you must partner with those better than you and we continue to be very close friends,” said Ganguly in an episode of the Champions Sports-Cast podcast hosted by DreamSetGo.

Ganguly made his debut for India in 1992, before ending his international career in 2008. He revealed how he got into playing cricket while growing up in Kolkata. 

“For me, playing sports was a way out and to get away from my mom who always wanted me to study. I actually started playing football and realised that I had tremendous ball sense, probably attributing it to being from Kolkata.”

“I started playing cricket because of my brother and would play in a 7-a-side cricket game in our backyard. It was because of these tennis ball matches, that I was able to absorb the game sense, and touch from a very young age.”

Under his captaincy, India got in many young players and Ganguly even captained India to a runners-up finish in the 2003 Men’s ODI World Cup. “For me, leadership is about managing people because everyone's different. At the end of the day, I cannot win cricket games alone. I need the 10 players next to me to drive towards that goal.”

“So I always looked to manage different personalities and try to ensure they played on the field where it mattered. I would just be kind to all my players and if there were ever mistakes, I would find a way to hide it. And just got them to have enough trust in me over time so that they gave the best for the team,” he stated on his leadership mantra.

Ganguly, a former BCCI and CAB President, called Sunil Gavaskar, Kapil Dev and Allan Border as his cricketing idols. 

“In 1983, when India won the World Cup, Sunil Gavaskar and Kapil Dev were the people I hoped to emulate as it was a big turning moment in our lives and the country. Apart from these two, Allan Border was an idol of mine that I always hoped to meet and I was lucky to meet all three of them.”

Ganguly, currently a Director of Cricket with IPL franchise Delhi Capitals, also expressed his admiration for legendary Argentina footballer Diego Maradona. 

“I remember I first met him at an interview he was doing with the media and I'm not exaggerating one word when I say it was a 20-minute interview and through it all, he was juggling a ball with his left leg and didn't drop it once. I’ve seen Messi, Ronaldo & even Pele play but Maradona was special, he was blessed by the Almighty.”

Colombo, Aug 8 (IANS) Cricket legend and the Unicef South Asia Regional Goodwill Ambassador, Sachin Tendulkar joined the world’s children’s charity organisation to help 3.9 million Sri Lankan people, including children, who are struggling to get adequate food.

Tendulkar is on a visit to Sri Lanka meeting children and parents impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic and the 2022 economic crisis.

The cricket legend recalled warm memories associated with Sri Lanka during his earlier visits, both as a cricketer and as part of his engagements with Unicef in 2015. He lauded the efforts of all government and non-government organisations in their efforts towards bringing a positive change despite challenging environments.

 During the field mission, he visited a pre-school, supported by Unicef’s ongoing mid-day school meal programme, and helped serve nutrient-rich food to children.

Since August 2022, the UN agency’s midday meal programme has been providing nutritious meals to 50,000 pre-school children in nearly 1,400 schools across the country.

The meal programme has also helped boost pre-school attendance.  

“Children require a nutrient-rich diet and quality education to reach their full potential. By investing in their education and nutrition, we are not only investing in their future but also every country’s future,” said Tendulkar. 

At another school, he observed teaching and learning activities for grade 3 children where many students shared their desire to stay in school and follow their dreams.

He then joined the senior schoolgirls and boys on the pitch for a game of cricket. 

“The children I spoke with, are showing great tenacity, and their hope for a better future remains strong. We need to continue supporting them so they keep achieving their goals,” Tendulkar added.

He also visited Indian origin Tamil families living in tea plantations, to understand their lives better.

As part of the support for economic recovery, Unicef provided cash transfers to more than 110,000 families with children up to two years of age to buy nutritious foods and other vital supplies needed for their children.

Tendulkar also took time to speak to a group of young people from Sri Lanka, in a close ‘Cricket Catch-Ups’ session during which he shared his experiences growing up, in overcoming obstacles, remaining resilient and focused in pursuing his goal.

These youngsters are part of the Unicef-supported Children’s Club network of the Department of Probation and Child Care Services.

Tendulkar was appointed as the first Unicef Regional Goodwill Ambassador for South Asia in 2013.

New Delhi, July 7 (IANS) Former India captain MS Dhoni, who is universally regarded as the best finisher in the modern game, is celebrating his 42nd Birthday on Friday. On his special day, the cricket fraternity came up with heartwarming wishes on social media.

Dhoni began his career in international cricket in 2004. He has become one of the most revered sporting icons in the country and acts as an inspiration for millions.

The highlights of Dhoni's illustrious 15-year career were leading India to remarkable achievements, including three prestigious ICC trophies -- the T20 World Cup in 2007, the 50-over World Cup in 2011, and the Champions Trophy in 2013. These accomplishments stand out as the defining moments of his career.

Since bidding farewell to international cricket in 2019, Dhoni has been delighting fans with his performances in the Indian Premier League (IPL), where he has five titles to his name.

Here's a look at some warm wishes extended by the cricket fraternity on Dhoni's 42nd birthday.

India batting great Sachin Tendulkar shared a throwback picture with Dhoni on Twitter and wrote: "May you always fly high like your helicopter shots. Happy birthday, MS!"

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) said: "Captain. Leader. Legend! Wishing @msdhoni former #TeamIndia Captain & one of the finest to have ever graced the game - a very happy birthday"

BCCI secretary Jay Shah also extended his wishes to the Indian legend: "Happy Birthday to the most successful captain of Team India, @msdhoni! Your charisma, leadership, and extraordinary skills continue to inspire millions around the globe. Thank you for your unparalleled contributions to Indian cricket," he tweeted.

Dhoni's close friend and India teammate Suresh Raina shared a long post on social media, in which he said: "Happy birthday to my big brother @msdhoni! From sharing the pitch to sharing our dreams, the bond that we've created is unbreakable. Your strength, both as a leader and as a friend, has been my guiding light. May the year ahead bring you joy, success, and good health. Keep shining, keep leading, and keep spreading your magic."

Former India opener Virendra Sehwag shared a unique birthday wish for Dhoni, giving a religious and mythological reference to his birth date.

"The Sun God has 7 horses to pull his heavenly chariot.
In the Rig Veda, there are 7 parts of the world, 7 seasons & 7 fortresses
7 basic musical notes
7 pheras in a marriage
7 Wonders of the World
And on 7th day of 7th month - Birthday of a top man @msdhoni"

Ex-India opener Wasim Jaffer tweeted: "This man revolutionized the art of finishing matches, and also the art of wicketkeeping. And along the way, he collected more trophies than anyone else. Happy Birthday @msdhoni Wish you lots of joy and success"

His India and Chennai Super Kings teammate Ravindra Jadeja said: "My go-to man since 2009 to till date and forever. Wishing you a very happy birthday mahi bhai. see u soon in yellow."

"Happy Birthday @msdhoni here’s to some epic memories on the field! Hope you have a blessed year ahead," former India star all-rounder Yuvraj Singh tweeted.

Dhoni's IPL team Chennai Super Kings posted a video in tribute to their captain's 42nd birthday with a caption: "To the son of the soil who struck a chord and has become one of us over the years! "

India batter Rishabh Pant said: "An inspiration to so many people across the country. Thanks for everything you have done for Indian cricket. Happy birthday Mahi bhai!"

Harbhajan Singh tweeted: "Happy Birthday Bahubali @msdhoni...May you continue to Inspire .. Have a great day Ahead."

Dhoni represented India in 90 Test matches between 2005 to 2014. The wicket-keeper batter scored close to 5000 Test runs at an average of 38.09. In the limited-over game, he has 10773 ODI runs in 350 appearances and 1617 T20 runs in 98 games to his name.

He also holds the record for the most stumpings in ODIs with a total of 123 stumpings as a wicketkeeper.

New Delhi, June 3 (IANS) Former India head coach Gary Kirsten believes that it will be unfair right now to compare young India batter Shubman Gill with legendary batters Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli.

Kirsten was batting coach and mentor of Gujarat Titans when Gill scored 890 runs in 17 innings, including three centuries, to be the leading run-getter of IPL 2023, as the side finished runners-up in the competition.

"He is a young player who has incredible skill and determination to be one of the best players in the world. It would be unfair to compare him to Sachin and Virat so early in his journey."

"I believe he has the game to successfully play across all three formats for India. You don't often see that, these days, particularly as T20 cricket is developing and progressing so fast," Kirsten was quoted as saying by Cricbuzz.

Asked on what has impressed him about Gill, Kirsten, the former South Africa opener, said, "First, his confidence and self- belief in knowing what he is capable of. Second is his work ethic and professionalism around how he prepares for the games. And finally, his game sense and how he puts a performance together with his skill sets."

With Gill set to open the batting alongside India captain Rohit Sharma in the upcoming World Test Championship final against Australia at The Oval from June 7-11, Kirsten wants him to keep learning about the game all the time and stick to his close circle.

"Shubman has all the credentials to become a great player for India, across all the formats. Like any player he will be met with challenges and obstacles; how he handles those and keeps progressing will ultimately determine his long-term success. I would encourage him to keep learning and to engage with those who can offer him trusted counsel."

Kirsten signed off by saying Gill has capabilities to be a captain in future. "I think he has the potential to become a leader. He has a good knowledge and understanding of the game and he gets on well with his teammates."