Xtra Time Web Desk: In a fitting tribute to legendary Sachin Tendulkar on his 50th birthday, the iconic Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Monday renamed its West Stand after him. It also marked the 25th anniversary of the famous back-to-back centuries the master blaster scored against Australia in the Coca Cola Cup in 1998. Sachin scored 143 and 134 runs respectively. The Indian batting maestro has scored 7 of his 49 ODI hundreds at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium. The function was attended by the CEO of Sharjah Cricket Stadium Khalaf Bukhatir.
Commenting on the gesture by Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sachin in a message said, “I wish I was there but unfortunately, I had prior commitments. Playing in Sharjah has always been a magnificent experience.”
He added, “From the electrifying atmosphere to the love, affection and support, Sharjah has been a special venue for Indian cricket fans and lovers of the game from around the globe. It’s given us so many special moments. A big thank you to Mr Bukhatir and his team for this kind gesture on the 25th anniversary of the Desert Storm match and my 50th birthday. Feels like the greatest 6 of them all!”
Commenting on the decision to rename the West Stand after Tendulkar, Mr Bukhatir said, “This is our small way of expressing our gratitude to Sachin for doing so much for the game of cricket. Indeed, that was an incredible innings, and it was repeated in the finals.
Sharjah Cricket Stadium still holds the Guinness record for most One-Day internationals played (244) and have witnessed some memorable matches.