Sachin Tendulkar’s timeless gratitude.

Remembering Ramakant Achrekar on Guru Purnima.

On the sacred occasion of Guru Purnima, Sachin Tendulkar paid a heartfelt tribute to his late childhood coach, Ramakant Achrekar. In a moving message shared on his official X account, Tendulkar said that no matter how many years pass, he will always feel there is one more “thank you” left to say to his mentor. He acknowledged Achrekar’s unwavering belief in him, his guidance, and the role he played in shaping not only his cricketing career but also his character.

Ramakant Achrekar was more than just a coach, he was a pillar of Mumbai cricket and a mentor to several budding talents who later went on to represent India. His sharp eye for potential and his disciplined approach to training produced a generation of cricketers who carried forward his legacy. Recognizing his immense contribution to the sport, Achrekar was awarded the prestigious Dronacharya Award in 1990 and the Padma Shri in 2010. He passed away in January 2019, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire.

For Tendulkar, Achrekar’s influence was foundational. Under his guidance, the young prodigy made his international debut at just 16 and went on to become the most prolific run-scorer in cricket history. Across 664 international matches, Tendulkar amassed 34,357 runs at an average of 48.52, including 100 centuries and 164 half-centuries. His record-breaking feats include 15,921 runs in Test cricket with 51 centuries, and 18,426 runs in ODIs, where he became the first male cricketer to score a double hundred. Tendulkar also played a pivotal role in India’s 2011 World Cup triumph, fulfilling a lifelong dream under the guidance of the values his coach instilled in him.

Achrekar’s legacy is not confined to statistics or awards; it lives on in the countless players he mentored and the lessons he imparted. For Tendulkar, Guru Purnima was not just a day of ritual but a moment to reaffirm his eternal gratitude to the man who laid the foundation of his journey. His tribute serves as a reminder of the enduring bond between a teacher and a student- a relationship that shapes lives far beyond the boundaries of the cricket field.