Why Did Tendulkar Express Gratitude for the Board Room at BCCI HQ?

Mumbai, May 17 (NationPress) The iconic Indian cricketer Sachin Tendulkar expressed his heartfelt appreciation to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for the honor of having a board room named after him at their headquarters in Mumbai. Recently, he inaugurated the ‘SRT 100’ board room in the company of prominent office bearers.

“First and foremost, I extend my sincere thanks to Roger Binny (President), Devajit Saikia (Secretary), Rajeev Shukla (Vice-President), and Rohan Gauns Dessai (Joint Secretary). I also appreciate all the BCCI officials and office bearers. We reminisced about my first tour to Pakistan in 1989 and the original office of the BCCI,” he reflected.

“It was located directly across from the CCI Brabourne Stadium pavilion, in a tiny room that I vividly remember visiting. The transformation from that modest space to this current location is truly remarkable. What makes it even more special are the priceless trophies on display,” he added.

During his speech, which was featured on bcci.tv, Tendulkar highlighted the significance of these trophies, stating, “They symbolize the planning and execution by the BCCI officials and players to achieve greatness for our nation. These are moments that unite the entire country in celebration.”

As he gazed at the 2011 ODI World Cup trophy, Tendulkar recalled a challenging period in his life when encouragement from his brother helped him persist, ultimately leading to his victory at Wankhede Stadium on his sixth attempt.

“After our return from the West Indies in 2007, I felt a sense of disappointment. Doubts crept in about whether I should continue my career,” he shared. “I vividly recall a conversation with my brother where he encouraged me to envision myself taking a victory lap with the World Cup trophy in 2011 at Wankhede Stadium.”

“That conversation reignited my ambition. For the next four years, my focus was solely on that trophy. From the difficult times of 2007 to the pinnacle of my career in 2011, the journey has been remarkable,” he remarked.

Reflecting on the 1983 ODI World Cup trophy, he stated, “My career began because of this trophy, the Prudential Cup. I grew up idolizing players like Roger, who is present here. The achievements we have as a team today are a result of collaborative efforts by officials who planned in rooms like these. I’m grateful for their contributions.”

Looking ahead, Tendulkar expressed optimism for Indian cricket, saying, “We have a fantastic team enriched with capable leaders and aspiring youngsters who aim to achieve greatness not just for the BCCI, but for our nation. I am confident that the right decisions will be made with the country’s interest at heart.”

“I once mentioned that I would continue to bat for India even after my retirement. I hope to be involved in key discussions that lead to decisions worth celebrating. Thank you once again for this warm gesture,” he concluded.

“It’s wonderful to be here at the office, and I assure you this won’t be my last visit. I look forward to returning to admire these trophies. I hope for many more trophies in the future, which will come through team effort. Best wishes to all, and thank you once again,” he added.