Sachin Tendulkar Honoured at Lord’s with Twin Tributes

Lord’s, the hallowed ‘Home of Cricket,’ witnessed a historic morning as Indian cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar was bestowed with two major honours, cementing his legacy further on the international stage. On Thursday, Tendulkar rang the ceremonial five-minute bell to signal the start of Day 1 of the third Test between India and England marking the first time he performed the revered tradition at the iconic ground.

The occasion held deeper significance as the ongoing series between the two cricketing powerhouses was recently renamed the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, honouring the contributions of both James Anderson and Sachin Tendulkar to the game. For Tendulkar, who has achieved virtually every milestone in the sport, this symbolic gesture was yet another feather in an already illustrious cap.

PORTRAIT UNVEILING AT LORD’S MUSEUM

Before taking centre stage with the bell-ringing ceremony, Tendulkar was honoured at a private event inside the Lord’s Cricket Ground museum. Accompanied by former MCC President Mark Nicholas, the Indian maestro unveiled his official portrait now on display among cricketing royalty at the venue. The inclusion of his likeness in the Lord’s museum is a fitting homage to a man whose elegance and dominance with the bat inspired generations.

With over two decades of unmatched service to the sport, Tendulkar’s records continue to dazzle:

- Most runs in Tests and ODIs

- Highest number of international appearances

- Most international centuries (100)

- Most Test centuries (51)

His portrait joins a revered collection, underlining the global reverence he commands.

SERIES DECIDER SET TO IGNITE AT LORD’S

As Tendulkar’s legacy was celebrated, the spotlight shifted to the high-stakes action on the field. With the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy currently level at 1-1, the third Test promises to be a pivotal contest in the five-match series.

England skipper Ben Stokes won the toss for the third time in a row but chose to bat first, changing tactics from the previous matches. India welcomed the return of ace pacer Jasprit Bumrah, who replaced Prasidh Krishna in the playing XI following India’s emphatic 336-run victory at Edgbaston. England, too, made a key change with Jofra Archer coming in for Josh Tongue, adding a fresh layer of pace and excitement.

A MORNING TO REMEMBER

For cricket fans around the world, the day was not just about another Test match—it was a celebration of legacy. Sachin Tendulkar’s dual honours at Lord’s, from the ringing of the bell to the unveiling of his portrait, symbolised a full-circle moment in his cricketing journey.

As the match got underway, one thing was certain: the Master Blaster’s presence had already set the tone for a memorable encounter in the heart of cricket tradition.