Tendulkar's ‘unusual’ tribute to Achrekar: A cricket icon’s heartwarming revelation!

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Batting maestro Sachin Tendulkar on Tuesday paid a heartfelt tribute to his iconic childhood coach, Ramakant Achrekar, describing him as an "all-rounder" and a true visionary of cricket. While unveiling the memorial of his legendary mentor at Shivaji Park in Mumbai, Tendulkar shared that Achrekar's coaching went far beyond just technique; it was about instilling a solid mental approach and a deep respect for the game. Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray was also present at the occasion. Tendulkar, speaking in Marathi, recounted the unique teaching methods of Achrekar, saying how his coaching helped players stay calm under pressure. "Ajit (Tendulkar's brother) noticed that our sir's students were always calm, no matter how tense the match was. That calmness came from the countless practice matches and the temperament he built," said the cricketing legend. "Sir was always there, overseeing every aspect of our training. He made us value every detail—from sprinkling water on the wicket to maintaining the kit. He taught us to respect the game, the equipment, and each other. We learned by doing, by making every practice session count," Tendulkar added. The memorial, approved by the Maharashtra government in August this year, now stands as a testament to Achrekar’s lasting legacy. Tendulkar recalled the old-school, tough-love coaching style that pushed players to go beyond their limits. "Sir had a way of teaching us lessons without saying much. He’d never say 'well played', but if he gave me money for a vada pav, I knew I had done something right!" Tendulkar laughed, fondly remembering the small gestures of affection that made Achrekar’s coaching so special.

Achrekar, who passed away in January 2019, was a master of resourcefulness. Tendulkar revealed how his coach was always prepared for anything, carrying a ‘Swiss Army knife’ of tools—everything from glue and sandpaper to a first aid kit, making sure no detail was overlooked. "He was like a general store, always ready for any situation, even if we had to go to the doctor! Sir was always in control," Tendulkar said. Reflecting on the impact of his coach’s unconventional but effective methods, Tendulkar said, “He always pushed us to keep going, whether it was running those last two rounds or batting for 10 minutes without getting out. He made sure we were always prepared, mentally and physically." For the next generation of cricketers, the memorial will serve as an ongoing source of inspiration, a reminder of the foundation laid by Achrekar for future stars. Tendulkar concluded by emphasizing that Achrekar’s legacy will live on, not just through his coaching but through the players he shaped, including himself.