Sachin Tendulkar on Tuesday revisited one of the most memorable and heartfelt moments of his early cricketing journey — an incident involving former India cricketer Gursharan Singh, who came out to bat with a fractured hand to help Tendulkar reach a vital century.
Speaking at an Ageas Federal Life Insurance event in Mumbai, Tendulkar recalled the 1989–90 Irani Cup match between Rest of India and Delhi, played at the Wankhede Stadium. Despite Delhi dominating the contest and eventually winning by 309 runs, Tendulkar stood out with a determined 103, the only significant contribution apart from WV Raman’s 41.
Rest of India were struggling at 209 for 9 while chasing a massive 554. It was then that Gursharan Singh, representing Indi, Delhi, and Punjab, stepped in at No. 10 despite nursing a broken hand.
His goal was simple: support the young Tendulkar long enough for him to complete his hundred. Together, they added 36 runs before the innings ended at 245.
Tendulkar said the moment stayed with him forever.
He described the act as an example of commitment and integrity.
“As they say, promises must be kept — but they must also be fulfilled. That is our DNA”, he said, explaining how this match served as a trial before national selection.
He remembered batting in the 90’s, when chairman of selectors Raj Singh Dungarpur urged Gursharan to come out and support his teammate despite the injury. “Gursharan helped me get to my hundred, and after that, I got selected to play for India. Later, he too made it to the national side”, Tendulkar noted.
The legendary batter said, he thanked Gursharan extensively both on the ground and in the dressing room.
“Walking out with a broken hand was extraordinary. Whether I scored a hundred was secondary — what mattered was his spirit and willingness to help. That sincerity truly touched my heart”, he added.
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