A MEMORABLE HALF CENTURY!!

The blue-eyed boy from Mahim
Hailed as the God of Cricket
Just got another half-century
Without losing his wicket!!

Yes, Sachin turned 50 today
A great time to look back, I suppose
To 34 years ago as he faced
Pakistani pacers with a bloodied nose!!

He enthralled fans all over the world
With his supremely entertaining bat
Which he allowed to do the talking
And how well did it do that!!

World records came rushing to him
As he carried on with his game
A picture of concentration at the crease
His deeds bringing him fame!!

That shy, bashful young boy
Transformed into a smart gentleman
Beloved of every generation
Indeed, he was the chosen one!!

So entertaining was his batting
That even my Dad, who didn’t know much cricket
Would avidly watch till he was playing
And switch off the TV on the fall of his wicket!!

The ultimate compliment to his craft
Was from none other than Sir Don
“You remind me of the way I played”
When, to visit him, Sachin had gone!!

Dear Sachin, on this your half century
We would like to assure you
That you’re just halfway there
You’ll complete a century, too!

– Dr Suhas Kulkarni
23rd April 2023