The iconic Sachin Tendulkar delivered an emotional speech at the BCCI Naman Awards on Saturday, February 1. While accepting the Col. CK Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award, he spoke for over 10 minutes, leaving the audience in complete silence.
Reflecting on his career, Sachin shared heartfelt moments, beginning with his debut tour of Pakistan, recalling the loss of his father, coping with various injuries, and concluding with valuable advice for the younger generation.
“Kapil Dev shares valuable lesson on time”: Sachin Tendulkar
“In 1989, during my first tour to Pakistan, our bus would depart for practice at 9 am. One day, I arrived a few minutes late, and Kapil Paaji was sitting there. He asked me, “Tendleya, is it 9 am, or has it already passed 9?” Since that day, I’ve developed the habit of setting my watch at least seven or eight minutes ahead.”
“Reflecting on my time in Pakistan, it taught me a great deal. As a 16-year-old, I wasn’t supposed to be exposed to such things. My vocabulary expanded, and I was surprised by the language used in Test cricket. It was a huge learning experience.”
No Bat Sponsorship
“In the mid-90s, I played for two years without a bat contract because I refused to promote alcohol or tobacco, despite those companies heavily advertising through bats. My family and I made that decision together, and their support became my strength throughout my career.”
A Century in Honor of My Father
“It all began in 1999, during the World Cup, when I lost my father. I returned to India for a few days to attend his funeral, and that experience changed me overnight. Afterward, I went back to rejoin the team and continue playing in the World Cup.”
“Life was never the same after that. I wished my father could have been there to witness the many events that followed in my life. From that point on, I made it a habit to show my bat to my father. Anytime something good happened, I would first celebrate it with him, even though he wasn’t physically there.”
Advice for the young generation
Cricket has been a life-changing gift for me, and without it, we wouldn’t be here. Mastering the bat and ball is key to both your game and career. There will be distractions, but don’t let them affect your career.
Appreciate what you have, take care of your game, and respect the opportunity. We’ve managed with less, so now it’s crucial to behave responsibly and elevate the game and the country’s name. You’re all still in your prime—make the most of it. Best of luck to you all.
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