NEW DELHI: Former Indian cricketer Vinod Kambli paid a heartfelt tribute to his late coach, Ramakant Achrekar, at the unveiling of a memorial in his honour at Shivaji Park, Mumbai. The event, held on Achrekar’s birth anniversary, was attended by cricketing legend Sachin Tendulkar, who applauded Kambli’s gesture with admiration.
Kambli, visibly emotional and grappling with health issues, performed a special tribute by singing a line from the classic Bollywood song, “Sar jo tera chakraye ya dil dooba jaaye.” His heartfelt performance resonated with the audience, and he concluded by saying, “Love you, sir,” a testament to the deep respect and gratitude he holds for his mentor.
ALSO READ: PV Sindhu to marry Venkata Datta Sai in December 2024
The ceremony celebrated the legacy of Ramakant Achrekar, a revered figure in Indian cricket, known for shaping the careers of several players, including Tendulkar and Kambli. Achrekar’s influence on cricket in India, particularly through his coaching at Shivaji Park, is legendary, and his contributions have left an indelible mark on the sport.
The event also brought Tendulkar and Kambli together, rekindling memories of their iconic 664-run partnership during a school cricket match in 1988. This record-breaking feat, which remains one of the most remarkable achievements in cricket history, symbolized the camaraderie and talent nurtured under Achrekar’s guidance.
Vinod Kambli sang a special song to pay homage to late Ramakant Achrekar. Sachin Tendulkar seen clapping.#SachinTendulkar #VinodKambli pic.twitter.com/BFPjua3EQ0
— myKhel.com (@mykhelcom) December 3, 2024
Tendulkar, who has often credited Achrekar for shaping his career, was seen clapping in admiration as Kambli performed his tribute. The reunion of the two cricketing greats added an emotional dimension to the event, reminding everyone of the lasting impact of Achrekar’s mentorship on Indian cricket.
The unveiling of Achrekar’s memorial at Shivaji Park, a historic cricketing hub, served as a fitting tribute to his legacy. It also highlighted the enduring bond between his students and their late coach, whose teachings continue to inspire generations of cricketers.
Kambli’s poignant tribute and Tendulkar’s presence made the event a heartfelt homage to a coach who transformed lives through his dedication to the sport. Achrekar’s memory lives on, not just in the memorial but in the countless players he mentored and the cricketing values he instilled.