Watch: Sachin Tendulkar's heartwarming reaction to installing life-size statue at Wankhede Stadium

Sachin Tendulkar is one of the greatest players in world cricket. Having represented India in more than 650 matches and scored over 35000 runs, Tendulkar is considered as 'God of Cricket'. Now, years after his retirement, Mumbai Cricket Board has decided to install his life-size statue at the iconic Wankhede stadium.

Meanwhile, Tendulkar himself reacted to the news and expressed gratitude towards the Mumbai Cricket Board for the gesture. "Well, it's a pleasant surprise. The president is here, and Mr. Kale and the other committee members are going to join us in a while. We've come here to identify a spot. The idea was shared with me, and as I said it is a pleasant surprise. My career had started here and this is like the completion of a big circle," Tendulkar told ANI.

"It's been a journey with unbelievable memories and the best moment of my cricketing career came here when we won the World Cup in 2011. The reason that happened was a long time ago when Achrekar sir (Sachin's coach) reprimanded me and from there on, I became a serious cricketer. The last international game I played was also at this very ground so it's very special and a great moment for me", Tendulkar further added.

#WATCH | Mumbai: On his life-size statue being erected inside Wankhede stadium by MCA, Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar says, "Pleasant surprise. My career started here. It was a journey with unbelievable memories. Best moment of my career came here when we won 2011 World Cup..." pic.twitter.com/OAHPP7QkSB

— ANI (@ANI) February 28, 2023

'It will be a small token of appreciation, says Amol Kale

According to Mumbai cricket board chief Amol Kale, the statue will be unveiled on Sachin's 50th birthday on 24th April or during the upcoming 50-over World Cup. “It will be the first statue in Wankhede Stadium, we will decide where it will be placed," Board president Amol Kale was quoted as saying by The Indian Express.

He further added, “He (Sachin Tendulkar) is a Bharat Ratna and everyone knows what he has done for cricket. As he turns 50, it will be a small token of appreciation from the MCA. I spoke to him three weeks ago and his consent was received."

Notably, Tendulkar played his last Test match against West Indies in 2013 at Wankhede Stadium. In his last innings, Tendulkar scored 75 runs.