On this day 31 years ago, 'god of cricket' played for India for the first time

November 15, 1989, is a significant date in the history of Indian cricket. On this day, Sachin Tendulkar made his international debut, against Pakistan, in Karachi. And, on the same day, 24 years later, walked out to bat for the last time, for India.

On the anniversary of that day on Sunday (November 15), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) shared images of Tendulkar’s first and last matches and thanked the former captain for inspiring billions across the globe.

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#OnThisDay 1989 – @sachin_rt made his debut in international cricket 2013 – The legend walked out to bat for #TeamIndia Flag of India one final time Thank you for inspiring billions across the globe. (sic),” BCCI tweeted on Sunday.

In 2013, Tendulkar, retired from international cricket, after playing in a record 200 Tests and 463 ODIs. His last international game was on his home ground, Wankhede Stadium.

In his final international innings, against the West Indies, Tendulkar scored 74. He had a winning farewell as India won by an innings and 126 runs on November 16, 2013. In his debut match, he had scored 15.

Tendulkar ruled the cricket world for 24 years, setting many records. He is the only player in history to score 100 centuries in international cricket. Even after retirement, Tendulkar is adored by his fans. Whenever he makes his presence at cricket matches, chants of “Sachin, Sachin…” are heard.

He still holds the record for most tons in Tests (51) and ODIs (49). He was the first male cricketer to score a double century in ODIs. The “God of cricket” achieved the feat against South Africa in 2010. He was part of the 2011 World Cup winning team.

The 47-year-old is active on social media, and provides regular insights into the game. Recently, during IPL 2020, he shared his views on almost all matches.