Vadodara, March 5 (NationPress) The International Masters League (IML) 2025 is in full swing, featuring five major matches at Vadodara’s Kotambi Stadium. This event has attracted several cricketing legends, including Sachin Tendulkar, Yuvraj Singh, and the Pathan brothers, to the city.

Throughout the tournament, Sachin Tendulkar has been seen practicing, drawing the attention of numerous fans. A recent video circulating on social media shows him fondly reminiscing about his early cricketing experiences in Vadodara.

In the clip, he recalls a special moment from his first visit to the city at the age of 14. It is believed to have been filmed during a practice session at Motibaug Cricket Ground, featuring Sachin reflecting on his past.

He mentions, "I am currently in Vadodara. The cricket ground behind me (Motibaug) is where I first arrived at just 14 years old with my Ranji team. I was part of a 14-member squad. Our dressing room was on one side, and the ground stretched on the other. The moment I stepped in, old memories flooded back."

Sachin also reminisced about how the ground used to be encircled by large tents, with a massive audience gathered to witness the match. Vadodara has recently established itself as a significant cricket hub, having previously hosted international ODI matches and games from the Women’s Premier League (WPL). Now, with the ongoing International Masters League (IML) 2025, the city’s cricketing legacy continues to grow.

As matches take place at Kotambi International Stadium, cricketing legends are present in the city. For Tendulkar, this visit transcends just another tournament; it signifies a return to the venue where he once played as a young cricketer.

Reflecting on the differences between his past and present, Sachin stated, "Back then, I was here as a young player trying to leave my mark. Today, I am here for an entirely different reason."

While he did not clarify the specifics of his visit, it’s clear that Vadodara holds a cherished place in his cricketing journey. This city has long been a powerhouse in Indian cricket, nurturing legendary players and hosting significant matches.

Vadodara is home to the Baroda Cricket Association (BCA), one of India's strongest domestic cricketing organizations. The city has produced cricketing stalwarts like Vijay Hazare, Chandu Borde, Nayan Mongia, and the Pathan brothers - Yusuf and Irfan - all of whom have played pivotal roles in India's international achievements.

The cricket culture in Vadodara is deeply entrenched in its history, with venues like Motibaug Cricket Ground and the newer BCA Kotambi Stadium playing essential roles in cultivating young talent.

The Motibaug Cricket Ground, located within the historic Lakshmi Vilas Palace, has served as a training ground for aspiring cricketers for decades. It has hosted numerous Ranji Trophy matches and is recognized for its association with the Gaekwad royal family, who have actively supported the sport.

In recent years, Vadodara has also emerged as a venue for international and franchise-based cricket, including the Women’s Premier League (WPL) and the International Masters League (IML).

The BCA Kotambi Stadium, a newer contribution to the city’s cricketing landscape, has hosted various national and international matches, further reinforcing Vadodara’s position on the cricketing map.