On this day in 2013: Sachin Tendulkar retirement that silenced the cricketing world

On this day, November 16, 2013, India’s cricketing legend Sachin Tendulkar retired from international cricket, marking the 11th anniversary of the conclusion of a storied career. Often hailed as one of the most complete batters the sport has ever seen, Tendulkar bid farewell to cricket during the 2013 West Indies tour of India, leaving an indelible legacy. The final chapter of Tendulkar’s illustrious journey unfolded at Mumbai’s iconic Wankhede Stadium, where India clinched a dominant victory against the West Indies. The visitors, unable to withstand India’s bowling attack, succumbed on the third morning of the second Test, setting the stage for an emotional goodbye. A visibly moved Tendulkar walked off the field to a heartfelt guard of honour from his teammates, a moment that encapsulated the respect and admiration he commanded in the cricketing world.

As the crowd roared in unison, Tendulkar took a final lap of honour, soaking in the adulation of fans who had supported him through decades of cricketing excellence. His farewell speech, filled with gratitude and emotion, resonated with millions, further cementing his place as a true icon of the game. Even 11 years later, Tendulkar’s impact on cricket and his unmatched records continue to inspire generations. His legacy serves as a benchmark for aspiring cricketers, symbolizing dedication, skill, and an unrelenting passion for the sport.

Sachin Tendulkar’s final international match began with India opting to field first after winning the toss at the Wankhede Stadium. The West Indies, led by openers Chris Gayle and Kieran Powell, took to the crease in what was expected to be a challenging contest. However, the Indian bowlers quickly asserted their dominance, ensuring that the visitors could not find their footing on the pitch. The West Indies lineup, which included several renowned players, struggled against India’s disciplined bowling attack. Pragyan Ojha delivered a remarkable performance, claiming a five-wicket haul that dismantled the batting order. Ravichandran Ashwin further compounded the Caribbean team’s woes, picking up three crucial wickets. The duo’s efforts ensured that the West Indies were bundled out for a modest total of 182 in their first innings.

India’s bowling unit, led by Ojha and Ashwin, capitalized on the conditions at the Wankhede Stadium, leaving the West Indies batting lineup in tatters. Their collective brilliance set the tone for a comprehensive Indian performance, paving the way for a memorable farewell match for Tendulkar. This clinical display not only highlighted India’s bowling strength but also added to the narrative of Tendulkar’s illustrious swansong. Murali Vijay and Shikhar Dhawan opened India’s first innings at the Wankhede Stadium, laying a solid foundation with a 77-run partnership. Both openers displayed intent before being dismissed in the 14th over by Shane Shillingford, setting the stage for Cheteshwar Pujara and Sachin Tendulkar to take charge of the innings.

Pujara and Tendulkar steadied the ship, forging a crucial third-wicket stand. Together, they contributed 50 runs in just 63 deliveries, ensuring India ended Day 1 of the second Test in a strong position. The anticipation for Tendulkar’s final innings electrified the atmosphere as he remained unbeaten at stumps. On Day 2, Tendulkar treated his fans to a vintage performance. He reached his half-century in 91 deliveries, delighting the crowd with nine exquisite boundaries. As he orchestrated one last memorable knock, his timing and composure reminded everyone of his legendary stature.

However, Tendulkar’s innings came to an end in the 48th over when Narsingh Deonarine claimed his wicket. Walking off to a standing ovation, Tendulkar had scored a brilliant 74 runs off 118 deliveries, laced with 12 boundaries. Pujara continued to shine, reaching his century as India posted a commanding total of 495 runs, setting the tone for a dominant performance in Tendulkar’s swansong match. Pragyan Ojha carried his stellar form into the second innings of the match at Wankhede Stadium, delivering another remarkable performance with the ball. The left-arm spinner dismantled the West Indies batting lineup, claiming five wickets and ensuring the visitors were bowled out for a mere 187. Ojha’s efforts highlighted his dominance throughout the match, as he played a pivotal role in India’s commanding position.

In what was an emotional moment for cricket fans, Sachin Tendulkar also rolled his arm over for two overs during the West Indies’ second innings. While the batting maestro didn’t manage to pick up a wicket, the sight of him bowling in his final game added a nostalgic touch to the proceedings. India wrapped up the match in emphatic fashion, securing a resounding victory by an innings and 126 runs. This dominant win not only capped off a strong team performance but also provided a fitting conclusion to Tendulkar’s illustrious career. Tendulkar retired as the highest run-scorer in international cricket, amassing a staggering 34,357 runs in 664 matches across all formats for India. His unparalleled contributions and legendary achievements have left an indelible mark on the game, cementing his legacy as one of cricket’s greatest icons.