As Indian batting legend Sachin Tendulkar turned 51 on Wednesday, social media exploded with heartfelt anticipation, coloring the digital world to praise and celebrate the cricket icon often referred to as the “god of cricket”.
Awarded the Bharat Ratna in 2014, Tendulkar is a veteran of 15,921 runs in 200 Tests, besides amassing 18,426 runs in 463 ODIs.
Tendulkar is the only cricketer to score 100 centuries. Of his 100 international tons, 51 have come in Tests and 49 in ODIs. He retired from ODI cricket in 2012 and a year later, in November 2013, after playing his 200th Test, he retired from all forms of cricket and offered to play.
His retirement marks the end of an era in Indian cricket, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire aspiring cricketers around the world.
On the occasion of his 51st birthday, the sports fraternity showered much love and wished Tendulkar health and happiness.
Former Indian batsman Uvvraj Singh tweeted, “Happy birthday paaji! From smashing bowlers on the field to life goals, that’s why I’ve learned to aim high in life (and sometimes on the field, too). Here’s wishing you lots of love, good health and happiness forever.”
Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh wrote: “Happy birthday paji @sachin_rt. Sending you lots of love and good vibes.. have a great day. We all should meet soon and celebrate your birthday and dance to the Gili gilli londa dance (Milkha movie Singh).
BCCI Secretary Jay Shah said, “Happy birthday to cricket legend @sachin_rt who turned 51 today! He has inspired millions around the world with his heroics off the field. Happy birthday to the Master Blaster!”
Irfan Pathan: “When Sachin Tendulkar steals that brilliant straight drive, he should stay at the striker’s end.
This story was told to my brothers and sisters. May your birthday be blessed with happiness, health and blessings from Karisma that you always bring. Happy birthday paaji”
Mohammad Kaif: “Sachin Paaji, you continue to inspire us all. I have a lot to learn from your kindness and humility. Good luck”
Former captain of the Indian women’s cricket team, Mithali Raj also tweeted, “A master blaster, Happy birthday @sachin_rt to the man who defines greatness on and off the field! You have inspired a generation with your wisdom and grace. I wish you a great birthday and the year is filled with success and happiness!
The Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) at X “celebrated the man who has brought billions of smiles to people with his brilliant performances for decades, celebrating the birthday of our very own Sachin Tendulkar”.
Dinesh Karthik: We can’t even count how many players started playing cricket after watching him play. Happy birthday to our favorite gamer! “
Cheteshwar Pujara: Happy birthday @sachin_rt paaji. It is an honor to share the stage with you. Have a great day and year”
Wasim Jaffer: Happy birthday to the cricketing genius who set the standard for batting worldwide! Goodbye @sachin_rt”
Suresh Raina: Happy birthday Paji, @sachin_rt! Your legendary career has inspired millions and your grace lives on both on and off the field. I wish you health, happiness, and a wonderful new year! “
Former World 1 bronze medalist and London Olympian Shaina Nehwal said, “Happy birthday @sachin_rt Your journey from the field to the millions is a testament to your talent and dedication. Like it serves the great game of badminton, your passion for the game and beyond is Ace!”
