Indian cricketing superstar Sachin Tendulkar, who was in Australia for the Big Appeal charity cricket match, revealed his affection for Australia in a pre-match press conference.
“Australia has always been dear to me because in 1991 as an 18-year-old, I remember coming here. I spent almost four months here. I almost had an Aussie accent when I went back to India. The competitive cricket that I played here at the age of 18 helped me a lot in my career. So, I have got a special feeling for Australia and the Australian people.”
“Yes, they are extremely competitive on-field, and that is how it is meant to be. But, when someone comes and performs well, they are the first ones to applaud. So, I appreciate it. ”
On Sunday afternoon, some of the world's cricketing greats joined hand to raise funds for the victims of Australia’s bushfire tragedy. The 10-over-match raised a total of $7,700,000 after the Ponting XI beat the Gilchrist XI.
Two teams of legends played each other at Melbourne’s Junction Oval. Tendulkar played the role of a coach as he was advised by his doctor not to play due to his shoulder injury.
However, the legendary cricketer went out and batted an over to Australian women’s cricket star Ellyse Perry.
“Had a lot of fun coming together for a cause like the Bushfire Relief. Happy to have contributed towards the Big Appeal,” Sachin tweeted after the match.
Greats of the game such as Brian Lara, Courtney Walsh, Wasim Akram and Yuvraj Singh were also present on the ground along with Australian legends Ricky Ponting, Adam Gilchrist and Luke Hodge, among others.
