Mumbai Indians, defending champions of the Indian Premier League (IPL) have announced that legendary batsman Sachin Tendulkar will be the team’s ‘icon.’
Tendulkar’s entire career in the IPL was spent with the Mumbai-based franchise that was bought by Mukesh Ambani some years back. Nita Ambani, co-owner of the Mumbai Indian’s commented, “Sachin has been an integral part of Mumbai Indians and a source of inspiration for the team ever since the inception. It was a fitting finale to Sachin last season, when we dedicated the IPL as well as CLT20 trophies as tribute to the legend.”
Tendulkar spent 25 years with the Indian Cricket Team breaking pretty much every record in the book. He is widely regarded as one of, if not the greatest batsmen in cricket history. He retired from cricket after playing a record 200th testin his home ground, the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Being the ‘icon’ of the IPL team, Mrs. Ambani expects the up and coming players signed by the franchise to benefit immensely from the little maestro’s wisdom. “We are very happy to recognize him as the Mumbai Indians Icon. I am sure the youngsters in the team will be delighted to have him around for guidance, and so would be the Mumbai Indians fans,” said Nita Ambani.
Tendulkar’s legendary status elevated him to a pedestal hitherto unchartered by lest a sportsman, but even a politician or a revolutionary figure. For his service to India’s favorite game, the Government of India honoured him with the highest civilian honour, the Bharat Ratna after his retirement. As a member of the Upper House in the Parliament, the Rajya Sabha since June 2012, the Mumbai cricketer has pledged to garner the attention of the politicos to the plight of sportsmen and women.
Tendulkar confirmed during last season’s IPL that he would not play for the franchise any longer. Fittingly, the Mumbai Indians won the tournament for the first time that season.
Commenting on his first role in the dug-out, Tendulkar remains optimistic and is eager to work with the support staff and the young talent waiting for a chance to shine. “I have been a part of the Mumbai Indians team since its inception and am delighted to continue my association. This season with Mumbai Indians will be a different experience for me and I look forward to closely interacting with the experienced support staff and sharing my learnings with the exciting youngsters in the team,” Tendulkar said.
Lastly, Tendulkar, also known for his affable demeanor and humility has also been the face of the ‘Education for All’ initiative. Led by Reliance Foundation Chairperson Nita Ambani, it stands for equal and rightful education opportunities for underprivileged children and has been able to meaningfully impact over 30,000 children through various NGOs.