8 instances which prove that Sachin Tendulkar is the epitome of sportsmanship

The ultimate team man- Sachin sacrifices his wicket; Mumbai Indians vs Chennai Super Kings, 2012

Often accused of playing for personal records, Sachin Tendulkar, in a highly selfless move, sacrificed his wicket for Mumbai Indians, during the high-octane clash against Chennai Super Kings in the Eliminator in 2012.

Chasing a stiff 188 for victory, Tendulkar, opening the innings with Dwayne Smith, played the penultimate ball of the fifth over on the offside. While Smith ran for a single, the Little Master did not. With both batsmen stranded on the striker’s end, Tendulkar decided to sacrifice his wicket instead by leaving the crease and going towards the danger end, ensuring that Smith, who was in ominous form, remained safe. He was run out for 11 in 11 deliveries.

Tendulkar further won the hearts of an awestruck Chinnaswamy stadium in Bengaluru when he consoled the dejected West Indian on his way back to the pavilion, encouraging him to continue playing his natural game.

A gentleman was needed to remind the game of cricket that the sport is much more than angry exchanges and glares, which are on display in the event of a mix-up.

A small gesture went a long way in proving that cricket, in its very roots, remained the ultimate team game.