Lahli (Haryana): Master batsman Sachin Tendulkar ended his domestic career in fitting fashion, guiding Mumbai to a four-wicket win over Haryana in the Ranji Trophy here yesterday.
Mumbai, resuming the day on 201/6, were made to work hard before they got past the 240-run target. Tendulkar (79 not out) and Dhawal Kulkarni (16 not out) needed close to two hours to get the job done on a tricky wicket.
The quiet little town of Lahli was the centre of attraction for the past week with Tendulkar playing his final domestic match leading up to his farewell Test series against the West Indies beginning November 6 in Kolkata.
Tendulkar said he enjoyed the experience.
“It was a challenging wicket. It had a lot for the bowlers. It was fun to bat on this,” Tendulkar said.
He added: “Slow outfield too, so it might be 240 on paper, but it is 280 anywhere else. This is just the kind of outing I was looking for. It’s fun. All about talking cricket, getting to know each other. It was all about keeping each other relaxed.”
On the West Indies series, Tendulkar said: “The West Indies series will be a good one. Something I will be looking forward to … my last couple of Test matches. I hope it produces good cricket and lives up to the expectations of all my well-wishers.”
Tendulkar thanked the Lahli crowd who turned up in good numbers.
“I want to thank the Haryana Cricket Association. I want to thank the security. The police did a great job. Thanks to the people of Lahli. Thank you everyone for making this match memorable for me.” IANS
